Florida Nation Staff
Florida Nation’s staff is a championship-tested team of coaches, trainers, and mentors who build complete players. Skills, IQ, and character. With proven success across top circuits and a culture of fundamentals, film-driven teaching, and individualized attention, we turn reps into results. If you want real development and real opportunities, this is where you sign up and get to work.
I’m Carlyle “Slim” Lewis, the Head Assistant Coach at Miami Country Day, with over 16 years of experience on the girls’ side of basketball. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to lead teams to 9 High School State Championships, 2 National Championships, and a Nike TOC title. As the Director of the Florida Nation Youth Development Program and Co-Founder of Culture of Hoops, my goal is to continue grooming and developing future collegiate athletes from the ground up, helping them succeed both on and off the court.
Malena Benitez is the Head Coach of Gulliver Prep Girls Varsity and also leads player development for grades K–8 at Gulliver Prep. She is the founder of Basketball for Girls (BFG) and serves as the South Miami Director for Florida Nation. Her leadership and dedication to growing the game make her an incredible addition to the Florida Nation family.
Greg Farias
Director of High School Basketball
Coach Greg Farias brings over 20 years of coaching experience and a championship legacy to Florida Nation. As head coach at Plantation American Heritage, he built one of Florida’s most dominant programs, leading the Patriots to six FHSAA state championships in seven years. Known for his discipline, defensive schemes, and ability to maximize player development, Farias has earned statewide recognition and multiple Coach of the Year honors.
Now with Florida Nation, Coach Farias is committed to bringing that same championship culture to the next generation of athletes, preparing them for success on and off the court.
Lauren Carmona
Youth Coach
Coach Lauren Carmona began her basketball journey at Archbishop McCarthy High School and went on to play at Santa Fe College, where she earned Academic All-American honors, a Conference Championship, and Second Team All-Conference recognition. She later transferred to Bethel University in Tennessee, helping her team reach the NAIA Sweet Sixteen before graduating. In 2024, Carmona joined the Miami Suns coaching staff, bringing passion, energy, and a focus on player development to the program.
Olivera Aloiso
High School Coach
Coach Olivera Aloisio brings passion, discipline, and a player-first approach to her role as coach with Florida Nation Basketball and assistant with American Heritage girls’ basketball program in Plantation, Florida. Known for her attention to detail and relentless energy on the court, Coach Olivera has quickly become a trusted mentor and motivator for young athletes aspiring to reach the next level.
Gabriella Gassant
Youth Coach
Gabriella Gassant, a former North Miami High School standout and team captain, brings her playing and coaching experience to the Miami Suns Youth Program. With a background in Sport Management and coaching at both North Miami Senior and Escambia High, she focuses on developing athletes through discipline, communication, and team growth.
Mariah Reynolds
Youth Coach
Coach Mariah Reynolds, known to players as “Coach Rih,” brings passion and experience to Florida Nation as a former Broward College and FAMU women’s basketball player. She focuses on the defensive end, with an emphasis on rebounding, energy, and effort, while inspiring athletes to compete with toughness and heart.
