RESPECT THE GAME

 Dr. Sherrell Pyles is an educator, nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, REALTOR®, luxury event producer, and lifelong advocate for youth development whose passion for education and athletics has shaped every chapter of her professional journey.

A Southern California native, Dr. Pyles earned her Bachelor of Arts in Black Studies from California State University, Long Beach, followed by a Master of Business Administration and a Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership from the University of Phoenix.

Her educational journey was fueled by perseverance. As a single mother raising two daughters while receiving government assistance, she refused to allow her circumstances to define her future. Through faith, sacrifice, and determination, she transformed obstacles into opportunities—a philosophy that continues to inspire the young people and families she serves today.

Basketball has always been one of Dr. Pyles' greatest passions. She began playing in the fourth grade and later pursued opportunities at the collegiate level. In 2004, she earned the opportunity to try out for the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks, and also, fulfilled another dream by competing internationally in Beijing, China. Her love for the game extended beyond playing as she coached youth summer basketball, served as a freshman basketball coach, and assisted the varsity basketball program at Crenshaw High School in Los Angeles.

Equally passionate about higher education, Dr. Pyles has dedicated more than 20 years to helping students pursue educational opportunities. Her experience spans college recruitment, admissions, financial aid, educational consulting, college access programs, college counseling, teacher support, and student success initiatives. Throughout her career, she has helped countless students navigate pathways to colleges, universities, trade schools, vocational programs, scholarships, and career opportunities.

Her professional experiences also include founding Undercover Masterpiece, a luxury event planning and production company, and serving as a licensed California REALTOR®. While these ventures showcase her leadership and entrepreneurial expertise, her greatest calling has always been investing in people and creating opportunities that change lives.

In 2012, Dr. Pyles envisioned an organization that would bridge athletics, education, mentorship, and wellness for underserved youth and young adults. That vision became Lethal Ball Players Sports Academy, a nonprofit organization committed to developing future leaders through its three core areas of impact:

• Education — College readiness, HBCU recruitment partnerships, financial aid, scholarships, career exploration, vocational and trade education, and educational support for adults returning to school. 
• Health & Wellness — Promoting physical health, mental wellness, nutrition, mentorship, self-care, and personal development. 
• Sports — Developing athletes through training, conditioning, leadership, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship across multiple sports. 

Under Dr. Pyles' leadership, Lethal Ball Players Sports Academy seeks to build strategic partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), colleges and universities, school districts, community organizations, corporations, and community leaders to create educational and athletic opportunities for youth and young adults throughout California, Nevada, Arizona, and beyond.

Dr. Pyles believes every individual deserves access to opportunity, encouragement, and a support system that empowers them to pursue their purpose. Her life's mission is simple:

"Building Character. Empowering Futures. Changing Lives."

She continues to be guided by one of her favorite scriptures:

1 Peter 2:9–10

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light..."