I’m quite familiar with this program but, not the current regime. I have seen many talented student athlete’s come through this small institution; many of them have went on to do great things in life!

Democracy Prep Head Coach Julian Barren, better known as JuJu, sees sports as a way to demonstrate character, discipline, and excellence. Currently, Democracy Prep is ranked 9th in the state, 5th in Las Vegas, and the best team in Division II.

As the game evolved on the girls side, coach JuJu has a desire to take Democracy Prep girls to unprecedented heights. Personally, I don’t believe there are too many teams in Las Vegas that want to see Democracy Prep on a neutral floor.

One of the great challenges for his young girls program is playing in an inferior conference. Coach JuJu definitely doesn’t use that as an excuse. His motto is “It’s not who you play, It’s how you play!”

I had an opportunity to catch up with Coach JuJu and his sensational freshman Keonni Lewis, one of the top 2026 guards on the West coast.

Unit 1 Hoop Source: Tell us a little bit about the program, and some of the goals you desire for Democracy Prep?

Coach JuJu: Originally, I’m a AAU guy, Keonni was playing on our boys team with the CM Bulls since the second grade. Once she became older, she played for the Lady Bulldogs. They briefly shut down their program, so I had to create a girls team for Keonni. This is how I got into girls basketball.

Our goals at Democracy Prep is to win a State title and build, a National girls program that the community can be proud of. Also, to empower our children with vision and insight. And let them know that we can also accomplish these type of goals in our community.

Unit 1 Hoop Source: The best female player I have seen come out of André Agassi currently known as Democracy Prep was Sharmayne Finley. Until I lay eyes on “Keonni Lewis, better known as Bubbles.”

This young lady has a smile that can light up a room. Her spirit is contagious. I can see it all over her face! I ask Keonni, what are some of her goals as a freshman on the varsity level?

Keonni: To continue to get better in every area of my game. Be a leader for my teammates and motivate my teammate’s with my energy.

Unit 1 Hoop Source: What motivates you?

Keonni: Honestly, it’s my family I have a desire to help my family. Another one of my goals is to play at the highest level, which would be the WNBA.

At the current moment, Keonni is receiving interest from UNLV, Texas, Idaho, Arizona State, and USC. We must keep this in mind, she only a freshman! She’s just getting started.

Democracy Prep girls, is a very talented and deep team. Coach JuJu has the potential of producing high caliber players at many different levels.

We will continue to track and follow the progress of this up-and-coming program in West Las Vegas.