ATHLETE | INNOVATOR | ESPN+ BROADCASTER | LEGACY BUILDER
DREY RICKS
From the hardwood courts of Detroit Pershing to ESPN and global stages, Drey Ricks has inspired generations through Basketball, media, and community leadership. His journey is one of Hard work, Determination, vision, and lasting impact. not only across basketball and entrepreneurship, but in reimagining opportunity for youth and communities worldwide.
Explore the legacy
THE
Global Connector
“Basketball without borders.”
Drey became a global community liaison, building bridges through sport and advocacy. His influence extended beyond the court, shaping youth, empowering communities, and proving that his legacy is not confined to one city, one country, or one role.
Drey Ricks views basketball as more than a game, it is a universal language, a bridge that connects people across cultures, backgrounds, and generations. Drey has used his platform to inspire, teach, and empower.
As the founder of Rawimpact, he transformed entrepreneurial success into community-driven action, hosting record-breaking campus events, donating vital resources during the COVID-19 crisis, and creating spaces for youth to be seen, supported, and celebrated. His leadership echoes far beyond the court, ensuring opportunities are created where systems often fail to provide them.
THE
Voice
“From the court to the mic.”
Evolving from player to storyteller, Drey joined ESPN+ as a Color Commentator, lending his insight to national broadcasts. Known online as “Mr. Defense”, his viral training clips reached over 20 million viewers, inspiring athletes worldwide.
THE
Professional Chapter
“Tested on global courts.”
From Rome to Greece, from NBA practice floors to , Drey carved out a professional journey filled with grit and highlight moments. He trained with the New York Knicks, Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Memphis Grizzlies, Philadelphia 76er’s, and Brooklyn Nets and even sharpened Stephon Marbury’s comeback before China.
THE
Visionary
“Building spaces, building stories.”
Drey expanded his vision with a training gym in Las Vegas, hosting NBA teams, international squads, youth teams, after school programs, and private sessions with legends like Doc Rivers and Jerry West – L.A. Clippers. During the pandemic, he authored Started From Scratch, a powerful reflection on perseverance and reinvention.
THE
Entrepreneur
“Turning vision into a movement.”
What began as a sportswear idea grew into Rawimpact, a lifestyle brand and retail presence that became a cultural movement in Kalamazoo and Detroit. Entrepreneur of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, and community honors followed. From hosting WMU’s largest-ever BBQ to donating thousands of masks during COVID, Rawimpact stood as more than a brand — it was a bridge for culture, unity, and impact.
THE
Ascent
“A new era in Kalamazoo.”
Youngest recruit ever signed to WMU (full-ride scholarship), Four-year starter and leader, Scored 29 points vs. San Diego State earning a nod from legendary coach Steve Fisher, ESPN Top Plays (#5 highlight), MAC Player of the Week honors, Hosted legendary coach John Wooden during WMU visit, and multi-year rivalry against Steph Curry – and made him fall. Drey Ricks earned a Bachelors of Art Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Social Work.
THE
FOUNDATION
At Pershing, one of the nation’s most storied basketball programs, Drey Ricks rose as a Top 5 player in Michigan. Known for his relentless defense and leadership, he became a hometown name before ever stepping onto the national stage. Michigan ALL Star, MaxPrep, Top 5 player in Michigan, Standout at Detroit Pershing High School, one of the nation’s most elite basketball programs.
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