Today we’d like to introduce you to LeVelle Moton.
LeVelle, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey started in Raleigh, where I learned early that hard work, faith, and perseverance would shape my future. Basketball became more than a game for me—it became an outlet and a vehicle to create opportunities. I played at North Carolina Central University, and that experience had a tremendous impact on my life, both on and off the court.
After graduating, I stayed connected to the program as an assistant coach because I believed in giving back to the place that invested in me. In 2009, I was blessed with the opportunity to become head coach. Since then, we’ve worked to build a culture centered on accountability, discipline, excellence, and family. Together, we’ve won championships, earned NCAA Tournament appearances, and helped develop young men who have gone on to succeed in basketball, business, and life.
Beyond coaching, I’ve always believed my purpose extends into the community. That’s why I founded Velle Cares—to use our platform to support families, inspire young people, and create meaningful opportunities for those who need them most.
Looking back, my story isn’t about individual accomplishments. It’s about staying true to my values, serving others, and proving that with faith, consistency, and the right people around you, you can accomplish far more than you ever imagined.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most people, I’ve faced my share of challenges, setbacks, and moments of doubt. Growing up, there weren’t always abundant resources or opportunities, so I had to learn early that success would come through discipline, resilience, and consistency.
Professionally, rebuilding a basketball program takes time. There were seasons when we struggled, critics who questioned the vision, and obstacles that tested our resolve. But I never allowed temporary setbacks to define our future. Every challenge became an opportunity to grow, adjust, and strengthen our culture.
Balancing the demands of coaching while remaining committed to my family and serving the community has also required sacrifice. Through it all, my faith has kept me grounded, and I’ve been fortunate to have mentors, supporters, and a dedicated staff who believed in the mission.
Those struggles have shaped who I am as a coach and as a man. They taught me that success isn’t about avoiding adversity—it’s about how you respond to it. That’s a lesson I try to instill in every young person I have the privilege to lead.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m the head men’s basketball coach at North Carolina Central University, but my work goes far beyond coaching basketball. I specialize in building winning cultures, developing young men into leaders, and helping student-athletes succeed both on and off the court. My philosophy has always been that the scoreboard matters, but the impact we have on people’s lives matters even more.
Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to lead our program to multiple conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances while establishing a standard of excellence rooted in discipline, accountability, and family. I’m equally passionate about mentoring, leadership development, and creating opportunities for the next generation.
Outside of basketball, I’m the founder of Velle Cares, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the community through scholarships, youth initiatives, and programs that support single mothers and underserved families. Giving back has always been central to who I am because I believe success is measured by how many people you help along the way.
What I’m most proud of isn’t the wins or championships—it’s the relationships. Seeing former players become successful fathers, husbands, professionals, and leaders in their communities is my greatest accomplishment.
What sets me apart is my commitment to authenticity and service. I lead with consistency, hold people to a high standard because I care about them, and never forget where I came from. Whether I’m coaching a game, speaking to young people, or serving through Velle Cares, my goal is always the same: to leave people better than I found them.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I’m a lifelong learner, so I’m always looking for ways to grow as a coach, leader, and person. I spend a lot of time reading books on leadership, culture, and personal development because coaching is really about leading people.
A few books that have had a lasting impact on me are The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon, Legacy by James Kerr, and The Carpenter by Jon Gordon. They all reinforce the importance of leadership, teamwork, purpose, and serving others.
I also enjoy listening to podcasts and interviews featuring successful coaches, business leaders, and high performers. I believe there are lessons to be learned from every field—not just sports. Whether it’s basketball, business, or life, I’m always asking, “What can I take from this to help my team and my community?”
Beyond books and podcasts, my greatest resources are my faith, my mentors, and the people around me. Staying connected to my community, learning from other coaches, and listening to my players have taught me as much as any book ever could. I believe growth comes from remaining curious, humble, and committed to getting better every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vellecaresfoundation.org
- Instagram: LeVelle Moton
- Facebook: LeVelle Moton
- Twitter: LeVelle Moton
