Coach “DJ” (Derrick Grim)
I’m Coach DJ, the driving force behind WA HYPE Basketball. My journey in the world of basketball and athletics has shaped my passion for developing young athletes. I was a Division II basketball recruit , earning an athletic scholarship and had the privilege of playing at a collegiate level. That experience gave me invaluable insights into the demands and dedication required to compete at a high level. My athletic career also includes a standout track and field legacy. A former Washington State Track & Field Champion and hold multiple sprint and relay school records at Everett High School. This experience taught me the discipline, resilience, and work ethic that I now instill in my players.
For the past four years, I’ve been coaching with the Everett Hoop Club, working with the class of 2031. This experience has allowed me to refine my coaching philosophy, focusing on long-term player development, skill mastery, and building a competitive mindset.
You wont find a coach more passionate a dedicated to the growth & improvement of his teams and players. Not only as athletes, but as well rounded human beings.
impact on athletes
Julien “J15” Grim is a special athlete. His journey was one of resilience, and commitment. He started out slightly overweight, and without natural skill. Not scoring or being productive in games began to frustrate him. Now Over the past 2 years he has become a pilar for every team he has been a part of. Recording single game stats like 22 rebounds, or 40pts. He’s WA HYPE’s first star pupil epitomizing all the standards we value. He’s one of the top defenders in the class of 2031, Plays the game the right way, holds tru to his commitments, and shines bright on and off the court.
Will Arbes is the 2026 Everett hoop club 7th grade Most improved player. In only his second year in playing basketball, he has begun to find success on the court by out hustling even the most skilled players in WESCO. Locking up ball handlers, diving on the floor for loose balls, and supporting his teammates his energy is contagious. Under coach DJ, Will has become invaluable to his team, and an integral part of his team’s success this season.
About hype basketball & athletic training
WA HYPE Basketball was founded to create a player-first development environment for young athletes in Everett and the surrounding communities. After several years coaching youth basketball locally, it became clear that many players needed more than just weekend games — they needed structured training, intentional coaching, and a program focused on long-term growth.
WA HYPE was built to fill that gap.
Our program emphasizes skill development, basketball IQ, discipline, and competitive habits that prepare athletes not only for AAU competition, but ultimately for middle school, high school, and beyond. Every practice is designed with purpose, focusing on fundamentals, decision-making, and the details that separate good players from great ones.
While development is the foundation of our program, we also believe players should be challenged. Our teams compete in high-level regional tournaments to test their progress, build resilience, and learn how to compete the right way.
WA HYPE is for families who value coaching, accountability, and steady improvement. Our goal is simple: help every athlete in the program become a better player, a better competitor, and a better teammate — one day at a time.
At WA HYPE, the mission is simple: train with purpose, compete with pride, and get better every day.
Hype Development Philosophy
At WA HYPE Basketball, development is the foundation of everything we do. Our goal is to help athletes build the skills, confidence, and basketball IQ necessary to succeed at higher levels of the game.
Practices are structured and intentional, focusing on the fundamentals that translate to real game situations — footwork, shooting mechanics, ball handling, finishing through contact, spacing, decision-making, and defensive discipline. Players are taught how to read the game, communicate with teammates, and compete with purpose.
We believe improvement happens through consistent training, attention to detail, and a willingness to be coached. While competition is an important part of the program, our priority is helping each athlete grow as a complete player over time.
At WA HYPE, success isn’t defined by a single tournament or season — it’s measured by how much our athletes improve and the habits they build along the way.
What We Expect From Players & Families “The HYPE Culture”
WA HYPE Basketball is designed for families who value commitment, growth, and accountability.
We expect our players to show up ready to work, willing to be coached, and committed to improving their game. Effort, attitude, and respect for teammates and coaches are non-negotiable standards within the program.
We also believe strong programs are built through strong partnerships with families. Parents play an important role in supporting their athlete’s development by encouraging effort, maintaining perspective, and trusting the coaching process.
Our goal is to create a positive, competitive environment where players are challenged, supported, and held to a high standard — both on and off the court.