Meet Our Coaches

O'Neill Palmer | Founder & 17U Coach

O’Neill Palmer, a Charlotte native, has a lifelong passion for sports and coaching, with a special focus on distance running and basketball. A former standout runner who held Charlotte-Mecklenburg distance records and competed at the state and regional levels, he credits proper training and form for sustaining his success as a lifelong athlete.

With 17 years of coaching experience, O’Neill currently serves as the Head Basketball Coach at Cuthbertson High School, where he mentors student-athletes and promotes a culture of discipline, growth, and teamwork. He also enjoys helping adult athletes prepare for races and fitness challenges, combining experience, encouragement, and just the right amount of tough love.

Jernel Sanders Jr. | Director of ACE and 16U Coach

Jernel Sanders serves as ACE’s Director and brings more than 15 years of coaching experience and mentorship to the program. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Jernel has built his reputation on developing disciplined, confident athletes who understand the value of hard work and accountability.

He currently coaches at Cuthbertson High School as an assistant coach alongside Head coach O’Neill Palmer, where he continues to help shape a competitive, team-first culture.

Jernel was a member of the 2009–10 Butler High School State Championship coaching staff.

Now entering his 6th season directing ACE’s high school boys program, he remains committed to guiding athletes through one of the most important stages of their development.

He believes coaching goes far beyond the basketball court, living by the philosophy that it’s about making a difference in young people’s lives. Jernel takes pride in building relationships, teaching life lessons through sport, and helping athletes grow into responsible young men both on and off the floor.

Bobby Scriven | Director of High School Boys and 15U Coach

Bobby Scriven serves as ACE’s Boys’ High School Director and is entering his third year leading the program. Originally from Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Bobby brings a player-first perspective shaped by his experience competing at the collegiate level at Johnson & Wales University–Charlotte and professionally in both Mexico and the United States.

With over five years of coaching experience, Bobby is passionate about skill development and athlete growth. Bobby previously served as the JV Boys Head Coach and Varsity Assistant at South Mecklenburg High School for two years and currently holds the same roles at Cuthbertson High School.

Bobby believes basketball is a microcosm of life and should be used as a vehicle to help young athletes pursue their dreams. He is committed to developing players not only on the court, but also in discipline, confidence, and character.