Mike Ross

Pepperdine University Board Member

We are thrilled to announce that our very own Founder and CEO of Connextions, Mike Ross, has been appointed as a board member at Pepperdine University as well as a member of the Athletic Board.

This prestigious appointment is a testament to Mike's exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to fostering excellence in education and athletics. As a board member, Mike will leverage his extensive experience in the sports industry to contribute valuable insights and strategic direction to Pepperdine University. His dedication to empowering student-athletes and guiding them towards success both on and off the field aligns perfectly with Pepperdine's mission of academic excellence and holistic development. We congratulate Mike on this significant achievement and look forward to witnessing the positive impact he will undoubtedly make in his new role at Pepperdine University.

Spotlight on Connextions Member AJ Dybantsa

The NBA on TNT recently featured a special guest on set, none other than AJ Dybantsa, the top-ranked player in the country. As a proud member of Connextions, AJ's remarkable journey to the pinnacle of basketball excellence is a testament to our commitment to nurturing and supporting exceptional talent. Let's delve into AJ's inspiring story and his incredible achievements. As AJ Dybantsa continues to make waves in the basketball world, Connextions remains dedicated to supporting his journey every step of the way. With unwavering commitment and a passion for excellence, AJ is poised to leave an indelible mark on the sport and inspire aspiring athletes worldwide.

As we celebrate AJ's achievements, we look forward to witnessing his continued success on his path to basketball greatness.

For more updates on AJ Dybantsa and other talented athletes, stay tuned to Connextions.

Connextions CEO Michael Ross Joins Athletes Touch as Century City Member

We are proud to announce that Michael Ross, the esteemed CEO and Founder of Connextions, has joined Athletes Touch as a Century City member. His inclusion in this prestigious network underscores his dedication to empowering athletes and driving positive change in the sports industry. Michael's commitment to mentoring and guiding talented athletes towards success aligns perfectly with Athletes Touch's mission of fostering professional growth and networking opportunities. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who attended the lunch meeting at Wilmington Trust, where Michael shared his invaluable insights and experiences. Together, we continue to champion the aspirations of athletes and pave the way for their future achievements.

Welcome Monty Buckley to Connextions Foundation!

We are thrilled to welcome Monty Buckley to the Connextions Foundation as our new National Player Development lead. Monty's extensive experience and dedication to nurturing talent in the sports industry make him an invaluable addition to our team. His exceptional track record as a national player and his passion for developing future athletes align perfectly with our mission to empower and inspire. We look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly bring to our programs and the continued growth and success of our foundation. Welcome aboard, Monty!

Introducing Mike Franklin Our Newest Powerhouse at Connextions Foundation

We are excited to welcome Mike Franklin, an outstanding running back from Jacksonville State University, to the Connextions Foundation family! Standing at 6'2" and weighing 230 lbs, Mike combines power and speed, boasting an impressive 4.5-second 40-yard dash. As a standout athlete in Conference USA, Mike's dedication and talent on the field are truly exceptional. We are thrilled to support Mike as he continues to break barriers and reach new heights in his football career. Welcome aboard, Mike!

Welcoming Darrell Jones Our Newest Board Member and Athletic Performance Expert

We are thrilled to announce that Darrell Jones, a seasoned athletic performance coach and recruiting manager, has joined ConNEXTions Foundation. Darrell brings a wealth of experience from his illustrious career in sports management and athletic development and is poised to make a significant impact on our mission. Known for running a successful athletic performance training facility, Darrell is renowned for making athletes explosive. His dedication to supporting athletes at every level of their journey aligns perfectly with ConNEXTions' mission to empower underrepresented young men and women to translate their athletic potential into success across all facets of life. As an athletic performance coach, Darrell will enhance the physical and mental prowess of our athletes, providing mentorship and training needed to excel. In his capacity as recruiting director, he will leverage his extensive network and keen eye for talent to identify and sign promising athletes who can benefit from ConNEXTions' holistic support services. Join us in welcoming Darrell to the ConNEXTions family. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries, inspire ambitious ideas, and elevate our athletes to new heights.

Dominic Kelley Joins Connextions Foundation

We are thrilled to announce that Dominic Kelley, the #3 running back in California high school football, has joined the Connextions Foundation family! Dominic, known for his exceptional speed, agility, and game-changing plays, has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the field. With his remarkable athleticism and dedication, Dominic is poised for an incredible journey ahead. We are excited to support him as he continues to excel and achieve new milestones in his football career. Welcome to the team, Dominic!

Welcoming Temi Olafisoye to ConNEXTions Foundation

We are thrilled to announce the newest addition to the ConNEXTions Foundation family: Temi Olafisoye! Standing tall at 6'7" and weighing 210 pounds, Temi is a junior forward hailing from Los Angeles, CA, and currently represents Compton High School on the basketball court.

Temi brings a remarkable blend of size, skill, and athleticism to our foundation. As a junior forward, he has already demonstrated impressive prowess on the court, showcasing his ability to dominate both offensively and defensively. His commitment to the game and his team is evident in every play, making him a standout player in high school basketball.

Emilia Krstevski Bringing Home Silver at the FIBA U17 World Cup

Emilia Krstevski, one of our own at the Connextions Foundation, has made us all proud by representing Team Canada at the FIBA U17 World Cup in Mexico and returning home as a silver medalist. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Emilia’s dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent on the basketball court. While the silver medal is a significant milestone in Emilia’s career, it is just the beginning. Her performance at the FIBA U17 World Cup has caught the attention of basketball scouts and coaches worldwide, and there’s no doubt that she has a bright future ahead in the sport. As she continues to develop her skills and grow as an athlete, we at the Connextions Foundation are excited to support her every step of the way.

Cassidy Cage A Rising Star in Volleyball's Next Generation

Cassidy Cage, a 6'3" middle blocker from Marist School and a standout player for Sports Performance Volleyball Club, is quickly becoming a force in volleyball. As a member of the Class of 2026, she has already made a significant impact with her physicality and strategic play, leading her team into the Crimson Classic as a top contender. Cassidy's defensive and offensive skills make her a formidable presence at the net, and her impressive season has earned her a spot at Mississippi State, where she will continue her volleyball journey. At Connextions Foundation, we are proud to support rising stars like Cassidy, whose dedication and talent exemplify the values we champion.

AJ Dybantsa: A Humble Path to Success On and Off the Court

AJ Dybantsa, the No. 1-ranked high school basketball player in America (Utah Prep, Class of ’25), recently shared his insights with Says Who Sports about his journey and the factors influencing his college basketball decisions. He believes in “basketball karma,” emphasizing the importance of making good choices off the court while staying humble and respecting the game. AJ showcases fearlessness and self-confidence during critical moments, models his game after former NBA greats, and prioritizes unselfishness and teamwork. Inspired by his parents' work ethic, he values giving back to the community and expresses gratitude for the support he receives from family and coaches, reinforcing the importance of collective success as he looks forward to his future in basketball.

Breaking News: AJ Dybantsa Ranked #1 by ESPN!

The recent ESPN rankings for the Class of 2025 senior basketball players highlight the nation's top prospects, including standout athletes like AJ Dybantsa, a rising star associated with Connextions Foundation. Dybantsa, currently the No. 1-ranked high school player, showcases remarkable versatility and leadership at Utah Prep, catching the attention of top college programs. His dedication to excellence on and off the court positions him as a role model for younger athletes, embodying the mission of Connextions Foundation to foster the next generation of sports leaders.

Cassidy Cage Shines in Southtown Volleyball Rankings

Cassidy Cage, a standout student-athlete at Marist High School and a Mississippi State recruit, has earned recognition as a key player in Southtown’s Top 10 Girls Volleyball Teams rankings. Currently anchoring the RedHawks as a middle blocker, Cassidy's exceptional skills and leadership have helped elevate her team to 3rd place in the standings. Her dedication on the court, paired with her commitment to academics and community involvement, make her a shining example of the values we celebrate at the Connections Foundation. As Cassidy prepares for her future with Mississippi State, we are excited to continue supporting her journey and witnessing her success in volleyball and beyond.

Mike Ross Joins LA Sports Council Board of Directors

The LA Sports Council is thrilled to welcome Mike Ross, Founder & CEO of ConNEXTions Foundation, to its Board of Directors, alongside four other distinguished leaders. With a strong background in sports performance and athlete development, Mike's work through ConNEXTions Foundation has positively impacted the lives of young athletes by providing mentorship and opportunities. His appointment strengthens the Council's mission to foster growth and innovation in Southern California’s sports community, and his leadership will help drive exciting new initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and empowerment within the sports industry.

Connextions Foundation’s Lino Mark Commits to Rutgers University

We are thrilled to announce that Connextions Foundation student-athlete Lino Mark has officially committed to Rutgers University! Lino’s decision to join the Rutgers Scarlet Knights marks a significant milestone in his athletic journey, and we couldn't be prouder of his accomplishments both on and off the court. Lino Mark’s commitment to Rutgers is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and passion for basketball. As a standout player, Lino has consistently impressed with his exceptional skills, work ethic, and leadership both during games and in his training. His talent and potential have earned him multiple offers, and after much consideration, Lino has chosen to take his talents to Rutgers University, home of the Scarlet Knights

A Day in the Life of Connextions Foundation Student-Athlete Solomon Clanton

Connextions Foundation student-athlete Solomon Clanton offers an inside look into his daily routine in his "Day in the Life" video, showcasing the discipline and hard work required to balance academics and athletic training. From early morning workouts to afternoon skill development sessions, Solomon’s day highlights the dedication needed to excel both on the court and in the classroom. His journey reflects the importance of mental focus, time management, and perseverance in achieving athletic success, all while being supported by the Connextions Foundation. Watch the full video to see how future basketball stars are made!

Big Moves on the Diamond! Tommy Goodin Shines at Vanderbilt! 🔥

Tommy Goodin is making waves as a freshman outfielder for the Vanderbilt Vandy Boys! 🌟 Representing Thousand Oaks, CA, Tommy’s presence on the field is already a game-changer. With his focus, speed, and power, there's no stopping his rise in college baseball! ⚡ Keep your eyes on this rising star! 💪

AJ Dybantsa Partners with Red Bull: A Major NIL Milestone, Powered by ConNEXTions

One of the key players behind the scenes of this monumental NIL deal is ConNEXTions, an organization that tirelessly works to connect athletes with the opportunities they deserve. Led by Founder and CEO Mike Ross, ConNEXTions played a pivotal role in facilitating and expediting this partnership. The team at ConNEXTions is dedicated to helping athletes like AJ maximize their potential off the court by securing deals that align with their personal brand and future goals.

Mike Ross, the visionary behind ConNEXTions, expressed his excitement about the deal, stating, “The ConNEXTions team is so happy to help expedite this deal. We believe in AJ’s talent and character, and this partnership with Red Bull is a perfect fit to fuel his journey to the top."

College Football's New World: Why Boise State vs. UNLV Matters More Than Ever

The Boise State vs. UNLV matchup is more significant than ever in the new era of college football, driven by the expanded 12-team playoff system. This change opens the door for non-power conference teams like Boise State and UNLV to compete for a national championship. For Boise State, a win is crucial to maintaining their national relevance, while UNLV, an emerging contender, sees this as a chance to make a statement. With each game having playoff implications, matchups like this are vital, reflecting the evolving importance of every victory in college football's new landscape.

Powerhouses of Creativity Unite at the L5 Luncheon: A Celebration of Leadership, Artistry, and Innovation

The dynamic duo Mike Ross, Founder & CEO, and his talented wife, screenwriter Barbara Ross, joined forces with the amazing two-time Grammy nominee Jae Deal and the sensational rising star Kendra! Together, they celebrated creativity and innovation in style at the illustrious City Club.