Coach Mike, Commissioner
Coach Mike Swatts, is one of the founders of the Carolina Hornets Basketball organization. He is deeply committed to helping young people grow and develop through the game that has had such a profound impact on his own life. Coach Mike believes basketball offers countless life lessons and provides valuable opportunities for teachable moments, especially when he’s in a coaching role. |
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Coach Nate
Coach Nate has been part of the organization since its inception. He started as key player for Coach Mike under a different organization. Keeping his connection, he began his coaching career in 1999, building a philosophy centered on player development.
Rather than relying on top-tier talent, he embraces the challenge of molding struggling players into key contributors. Watching athletes who start off uncertain evolve into confident, skilled players by season’s end is what drives him.
For Coach Nate, basketball is more than just a game—it’s a tool for overcoming life’s challenges. He finds joy in the gym, in the rhythmic bounce of the ball, and in the thrill of victory—not just on the scoreboard, but in the growth, effort, and journey of his players.
Coach Nate has been part of the organization since its inception. He started as key player for Coach Mike under a different organization. Keeping his connection, he began his coaching career in 1999, building a philosophy centered on player development.
Rather than relying on top-tier talent, he embraces the challenge of molding struggling players into key contributors. Watching athletes who start off uncertain evolve into confident, skilled players by season’s end is what drives him.
For Coach Nate, basketball is more than just a game—it’s a tool for overcoming life’s challenges. He finds joy in the gym, in the rhythmic bounce of the ball, and in the thrill of victory—not just on the scoreboard, but in the growth, effort, and journey of his players.
Coach Greene
Coach Michael Greene, has dedicated over 40 years to the game of basketball. The first two decades of his coaching career were focused solely on the game itself, while the past 20 years have blended coaching with ministry. Coach Greene uses basketball as a way to connect with young men and introduce them to the word of God. He often reflects, saying, "What started out as a passion, has now become purpose." |
Coach Cee Dee
Coach Cee Dee, a proud native of Durham, NC has dedicated over 15 years to coaching and mentoring young athletes in the local community. His love for the game of basketball is enhanced by his passion to develop the next generation of talent to push towards fostering their full potential and talent. His coaching philosophy goes beyond wins and losses - it is centered on building character, instilling discipline, and promoting teamwork among the young athletes that come under his tutelage. Beyond the scope of a mentor, he is also considered a role model to the countless youth who look up to him for guidance, support, and inspiration. |
Coach Bumpass
Coach Carl Bumpass originally, from the big city of Roxboro (now Bull City), brings a plethora of knowledge to the game and organization. Coach Carl has coached anything from tee ball in the General Electric Basketball League, to tee ball, to assisting his son in coaching his 2 granddaughters in the game of basketball for the last 10 years. He has impeccable talent for "recognizing athletic talent and grit" and is applauded for being a culturally responsive leader and a champion for the children. 
Coach Cee Cee
Carlos McLendon, a Durham, NC native, is a well-respected figure in the Bull City. His own experiences growing up deeply resonate with the youth he coaches. With a strong understanding of family dynamics and the challenges many Durham residents face—such as limited access to resources and opportunities—he is dedicated to improving conditions in his hometown. As a coach, he wants to inspire, grow, and young minds to have a future forward mindset. |
Coach Lane
Coach Lane Clarke is a passionate basketball mentor who has dedicated over 25 years to playing the game and over 30 years to studying and mastering its intricacies. A lifelong student of basketball, Coach Lane combines an in-depth understanding of the game with a deep commitment to developing the next generation of players and leaders. Known for an innovative and inspiring coaching style, Coach Lane creates a fun, engaging, and educational environment that emphasizes the fundamentals, skill development, and the value of hard work and dedication. With a focus on character-building and talent development, Coach Lane strives to help players grow not only as athletes but as individuals who exhibit integrity and strong moral values. Guided by faith and a passion for teaching, Coach Lane incorporates Godly principles into coaching, encouraging players to succeed both on and off the court. By instilling lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and accountability, Coach Lane helps athletes achieve their goals while preparing them for success in life 
Coach Farrington
Coach Rodney Farrington, a Chapel Hill, N.C. native, attended Chapel Hill High School before earning his degree from Livingstone College. Coach Farrington comes to the Hornets organization with 11 years of travel ball coaching experience. His desire to grow youth in basketball expands beyond the AAU circuit. Returning to his roots he previously served as the Head Boys’ Basketball Coach at Phillips Middle School in Chapel Hill for five years. With a wealth of experience behind him and geared up for the seasons ahead Coach Farrington is accepting the challenge ahead. Set his sites on success and guiding our young athletes showcasing athletic strength and resiliency. |
Ms. Dolli
Dolli M. Bradford, serves as the Community Relations Liaison and the Team Mom for the Hornets Organization.
A proud native of Stem, NC, she brings 24 years of experience as an educator, dedicating her life’s work to teaching, inspiring, and uplifting youth. As a transformational leader, she is passionate about enhancing student success through a culturally responsive approach.
Beyond her role in team-wide communication, content creation, and record-keeping, Ms. Dolli plays a vital role in supporting players’ social and emotional well-being. She provides guidance on social skills, reinforces positive behavior, and ensures they excel both on and off the court.
Above all, she considers herself the Hornets' BIGGEST CHEERLEADER and eagerly anticipates each travel ball season with the team!
Dolli M. Bradford, serves as the Community Relations Liaison and the Team Mom for the Hornets Organization.
A proud native of Stem, NC, she brings 24 years of experience as an educator, dedicating her life’s work to teaching, inspiring, and uplifting youth. As a transformational leader, she is passionate about enhancing student success through a culturally responsive approach.
Beyond her role in team-wide communication, content creation, and record-keeping, Ms. Dolli plays a vital role in supporting players’ social and emotional well-being. She provides guidance on social skills, reinforces positive behavior, and ensures they excel both on and off the court.
Above all, she considers herself the Hornets' BIGGEST CHEERLEADER and eagerly anticipates each travel ball season with the team!