Ayrton Oneill
The cast of *Last Chance U: Basketball* has seen a mix of triumphs and challenges since the docuseries highlighted their journeys at East Los Angeles College. Many players, like Deshaun Highler and KJ Allen, leveraged their time at ELAC to secure Division I scholarships, with Highler joining the University of Detroit Mercy and Allen heading to Eastern Kentucky University. Others, such as Joe Hampton, faced personal and professional setbacks, underscoring the series' theme of resilience in the face of adversity. Coach John Mosley, a central figure in the show, has continued to mentor and inspire, though his tenure at ELAC ended in 2022. The series not only showcased their athletic pursuits but also their struggles with academics, family, and personal growth, leaving viewers curious about their paths post-ELAC.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| John Franklin III | Transferred to Auburn University after EMCC, later played for Florida Atlantic University. Pursued NFL opportunities, including a stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Currently a free agent. |
| Dakota Allen | Transferred to Texas Tech after EMCC, drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 2019. Played in the NFL for the Rams and Oakland Raiders. Currently a free agent. |
| Ronald Ollie | Transferred to Nicholls State after EMCC, pursued professional football opportunities but faced injuries. Later became a motivational speaker and coach. |
| Chauncey Rivers | Transferred to Mississippi State after EMCC, faced legal issues and was dismissed from the team. Played briefly in the CFL and pursued other professional opportunities. |
| Brittany Wagner | EMCC’s academic counselor, became a viral figure for her tough love approach. Continued her career in education and advocacy for student-athletes. |
| Buddy Stephens | EMCC’s head football coach, remained at the school after the show. Continued to lead the team to success, including multiple national championships. |
| Wade Henderson | EMCC’s defensive coordinator, remained at the school after the show. Continued coaching and mentoring players. |
| DJ Law | Transferred to Utah State after EMCC, pursued professional football opportunities but faced challenges. Later focused on personal development and community work. |
| Tim Bonner | Transferred to Florida Atlantic after EMCC, pursued professional football opportunities but faced injuries. Later transitioned to coaching and mentoring. |
| Isaiah Wright | Transferred to Temple University after EMCC, drafted by the Washington Football Team in 2020. Played in the NFL and is currently with the Pittsburgh Steelers. |
| Basketball Cast (East Los Angeles College) | The basketball season of Last Chance U focused on ELAC’s 2019-2020 season. Players like Joe Hampton, Deshaun Highler, and Andre Carpenter pursued junior college success and transfers to higher levels. |
| Joe Hampton | Star player at ELAC, transferred to Loyola Marymount University. Pursued professional basketball opportunities overseas. |
| Deshaun Highler | Transferred to Long Beach State after ELAC, pursued professional basketball opportunities overseas. |
| Andre Carpenter | Transferred to Cal State Los Angeles after ELAC, pursued professional basketball opportunities and coaching. |
| John Mosley | ELAC’s head basketball coach, remained at the school after the show. Continued to lead the team and mentor players. |
| General Impact | Last Chance U highlighted the struggles and triumphs of junior college athletes, shedding light on their journeys to overcome adversity and pursue higher education and professional careers. |
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What You'll Learn
Where are the players now?
The players featured in *Last Chance U: Basketball* have taken diverse paths since their time at East Los Angeles College (ELAC), with some continuing their athletic careers, while others have transitioned into new endeavors. One of the standout players, Deshuan Watson, who was a central figure in the series, has continued to pursue basketball at the collegiate level. After ELAC, Watson transferred to a four-year institution to further his education and basketball career, though specific details about his current team remain less publicized. His journey reflects the resilience and determination highlighted in the series.
Another key player, Jaylee Hatfield, has also moved forward in his basketball career. Known for his tenacity and leadership on the court, Hatfield transferred to a higher-level program to continue playing competitively. While his exact location and team are not widely reported, his progress underscores the opportunities that ELAC provided as a stepping stone for aspiring athletes. Hatfield’s story is a testament to the program’s ability to help players elevate their game and achieve their goals.
Malik Muhammad, whose personal struggles and growth were a significant part of the series, has focused on personal development and stability. While his basketball career may not have continued at the collegiate level, Muhammad has been vocal about using his experiences to mentor others facing similar challenges. His journey highlights the broader impact of the *Last Chance U* program, which often extends beyond the court into life lessons and personal transformation.
TJ Wright, another memorable player from the series, has transitioned into a role that combines basketball with community engagement. After ELAC, Wright has been involved in coaching and youth mentorship programs, using his experiences to inspire the next generation of athletes. His shift from player to mentor demonstrates how the skills and lessons learned at ELAC can translate into meaningful contributions off the court.
Lastly, Dante Chandler, whose story was marked by both triumphs and setbacks, has maintained a presence in the basketball world. While his professional playing career has not been extensively documented, Chandler has been active in local basketball communities, participating in leagues and events. His continued involvement in the sport reflects the lasting passion and dedication instilled during his time at ELAC.
Overall, the players from *Last Chance U: Basketball* have pursued varied paths, with some continuing their athletic careers, while others have leveraged their experiences to impact their communities. Their journeys underscore the program’s role as a platform for second chances and personal growth, both on and off the court.
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Coaching changes post-show
Following the conclusion of *Last Chance U: Basketball*, several coaching changes occurred within the programs featured on the show, reflecting the high-pressure and often volatile nature of collegiate athletics. At East Los Angeles College (ELAC), head coach John Mosley, who was central to the show’s narrative, faced increased scrutiny and challenges. Despite his success in leading the team to multiple state championships, Mosley’s intense coaching style and controversial methods were under the microscope. Post-show, ELAC underwent administrative changes, and Mosley’s contract was not renewed, marking the end of his tenure at the college. This decision sparked debates among fans and critics about the balance between winning and player welfare in junior college basketball.
At the other featured institution, Indian Hills Community College in Iowa, the coaching staff also experienced shifts. Head coach Barret Peery, known for his disciplined approach, left the program shortly after the show’s release to take a position at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). Peery’s departure was a significant change for Indian Hills, as he had been instrumental in maintaining the program’s reputation as a national powerhouse. Assistant coaches stepped into larger roles to ensure continuity, but the transition highlighted the challenges of retaining top coaching talent in the junior college system.
The post-show coaching changes also extended to the players’ development and recruitment. Many coaches who appeared on *Last Chance U* leveraged the exposure to advance their careers, often moving to higher-profile positions at Division I schools or other competitive programs. This turnover created opportunities for new coaches to step in but also left questions about the long-term stability of the programs featured on the show. For players, these changes meant adapting to new coaching styles and philosophies, which could impact their development and college recruitment prospects.
Additionally, the show’s portrayal of coaching dynamics led to increased discussions about the treatment of student-athletes. Some coaches faced backlash for their harsh methods, prompting institutions to reevaluate their coaching standards and prioritize player well-being. This shift resulted in more player-centric approaches in some programs, with new coaches focusing on mentorship and holistic development rather than solely on winning. However, this change also created tension between traditional coaching styles and modern, player-focused methodologies.
Overall, the coaching changes post-*Last Chance U: Basketball* reflected broader trends in collegiate sports, where success is often measured by wins and losses, but accountability for player treatment is increasingly important. The departures and transitions of key coaches like Mosley and Peery underscored the transient nature of coaching roles in junior college basketball. As programs navigated these changes, they also grappled with the legacy of the show, which brought both opportunities and challenges to the institutions and individuals involved.
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Player success stories
The Netflix series *Last Chance U* has been a launching pad for several basketball players who used their time at East Los Angeles College (ELAC) to turn their careers around. One standout success story is Deshawn Highler, who became a fan favorite during the show’s basketball season. After his time at ELAC, Highler transferred to the University of Louisiana at Monroe, where he continued to showcase his scoring ability and leadership on the court. His journey from a junior college to Division I basketball is a testament to his hard work and resilience, proving that a second chance can lead to significant opportunities.
Another inspiring player is Jaylin Walker, whose story is one of perseverance and triumph. Walker faced personal challenges, including homelessness, but his talent and determination caught the attention of coaches and scouts. After ELAC, he transferred to Kent State University, where he became a key player and earned accolades for his performance. Walker’s success extends beyond college; he has pursued professional basketball opportunities overseas, demonstrating that the skills and mindset developed at ELAC can open doors to international careers.
Dante Harley is another player whose story highlights the transformative power of *Last Chance U*. Harley transferred to ELAC after facing academic and personal struggles at a Division I school. At ELAC, he refocused his efforts and improved both his game and his grades. His hard work paid off when he earned a spot at the University of San Diego, where he continued to excel. Harley’s journey underscores the importance of resilience and the value of a supportive environment in achieving success.
Johnathan Edwards also stands out as a player who maximized his opportunity at ELAC. Known for his athleticism and defensive prowess, Edwards transferred to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi after his time at ELAC. There, he became a vital part of the team, contributing to their success with his energy and skill. Edwards’ story is a reminder that players can leverage their junior college experience to reach higher levels of competition and achieve their goals.
Lastly, Malik Muhammad exemplifies how *Last Chance U* can serve as a stepping stone to professional aspirations. After ELAC, Muhammad continued to develop his game and eventually pursued professional opportunities in Europe. His journey from junior college to playing overseas highlights the global reach of basketball and the potential for players to build successful careers beyond the United States. These success stories from *Last Chance U* basketball demonstrate that with dedication, hard work, and a second chance, players can overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable success in their careers.
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Challenges faced after the show
The cast of *Last Chance U: Basketball* faced numerous challenges after the show, as they navigated the complexities of transitioning from the spotlight of a high-profile docuseries to the realities of their post-show lives. One of the most significant hurdles was the pressure to capitalize on their newfound fame while maintaining focus on their athletic and academic goals. Many of the players had aspirations of playing professionally or transferring to Division I programs, but the path to achieving these dreams was fraught with obstacles. The show’s exposure brought scrutiny from coaches, scouts, and fans, leaving little room for error in their performances on and off the court.
Another major challenge was the emotional and mental toll of returning to relative obscurity after experiencing the highs of being featured on a Netflix series. Players like Deshaun Highler and KJ Allen, who became fan favorites, struggled with the sudden drop in public attention and the need to redefine their identities outside of the show. This transition often led to feelings of isolation and uncertainty about their futures. Additionally, the financial strain of pursuing basketball careers without guaranteed contracts or scholarships forced many to balance training with part-time jobs, further complicating their journeys.
Academic challenges also persisted for several cast members. The show highlighted the difficulties of juggling rigorous basketball schedules with the demands of college coursework, and these struggles continued post-show. Players like Malik Muhammad, who faced eligibility issues during the series, had to work tirelessly to meet academic requirements while keeping their basketball dreams alive. The lack of structured support systems after the show ended made it even harder for them to stay on track, as they no longer had the resources and guidance provided by the East Los Angeles College program.
Injuries and physical setbacks were additional roadblocks for some cast members. The wear and tear of competitive basketball, combined with limited access to top-tier medical care, left players like Joe Hampton battling injuries that threatened their careers. Without the same level of training facilities and coaching staff they had during the show, recovery became a slow and often solitary process. These physical challenges not only impacted their athletic performance but also took a toll on their mental health, as they grappled with the fear of their dreams slipping away.
Lastly, the cast faced the challenge of managing expectations—both their own and those of others. Fans and followers often assumed that appearing on *Last Chance U* would automatically lead to success, but the reality was far more nuanced. Players like Jaylon Hawkins, who had aspirations of playing professionally, had to confront the harsh realities of a competitive industry where opportunities were limited. The pressure to live up to the “last chance” narrative of the show added an extra layer of stress, as they fought to prove their worth in a system that often overlooked junior college athletes. These challenges underscored the resilience required to pursue a career in basketball, even after gaining national attention.
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Impact on college basketball careers
The Netflix series *Last Chance U: Basketball* shed light on the struggles and triumphs of junior college (JUCO) players aiming to revive their basketball careers and earn Division I opportunities. The exposure from the show significantly impacted the college basketball trajectories of its featured athletes, offering both immediate benefits and long-term challenges. For many players, the series served as a platform to showcase their talent and resilience, attracting the attention of college scouts and coaches who might have otherwise overlooked them. This increased visibility often translated into scholarship offers from higher-tier programs, providing a second chance at collegiate success.
One of the most direct impacts of the show was the heightened recruitment of its cast members. Players like Deshaun Highler and KJ Allen, for instance, leveraged their exposure to secure spots at Division I schools. Highler, after his time at East Los Angeles College, transferred to the University of Detroit Mercy, where he became a key contributor. Similarly, Allen’s standout performance at East Los Angeles College earned him a spot at the University of California, Riverside, showcasing how *Last Chance U* could act as a springboard to bigger stages. These opportunities not only elevated their individual careers but also validated the JUCO pathway as a legitimate route to Division I basketball.
However, the impact wasn’t uniformly positive. Some players faced the pressure of heightened expectations, both from themselves and external observers, which occasionally hindered their performance. The sudden spotlight could be overwhelming, leading to inconsistent play or struggles with adjusting to the increased scrutiny. Additionally, not all cast members secured Division I offers, leaving some to continue their careers at smaller programs or even outside of basketball. This disparity highlighted the unpredictability of the JUCO-to-Division I pipeline, even with the added exposure from a global platform like Netflix.
The show also influenced how JUCO programs were perceived in the broader college basketball landscape. Coaches and scouts began paying closer attention to these programs, recognizing them as fertile ground for untapped talent. This shift benefited not only the cast members but also future JUCO players, as the stigma surrounding junior colleges began to erode. *Last Chance U* effectively humanized the struggles of these athletes, making their journeys more relatable and their potential more apparent to decision-makers in college basketball.
Lastly, the series had a lasting impact on the personal brands of its featured players. Those who successfully transitioned to Division I programs often became inspirational figures, using their stories to motivate younger athletes facing similar challenges. This extended impact went beyond their on-court careers, shaping their legacies as individuals who overcame adversity. In essence, *Last Chance U: Basketball* not only altered the college basketball careers of its cast but also redefined the narrative around JUCO players, proving that with determination and opportunity, a last chance can indeed become a new beginning.
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Frequently asked questions
Many players from the show went on to pursue basketball careers at higher levels, including transferring to Division I programs or playing professionally overseas. Some also focused on education and personal development.
As of the latest updates, no players from the Last Chance U Basketball series have made it to the NBA, though some have played in the G League or international leagues.
Coach John Ray continued his coaching career after the show, focusing on mentoring student-athletes and working in basketball development programs. He remains a respected figure in the basketball community.
