Shawn Werdt, Founder and Program Director of Uptown Basketball Academy, brings nearly 20 years of coaching experience at both the high school and NCAA levels. As Head Coach at Germantown Friends School, he led the program to its most successful stretch in the past thirty years, finishing as the school’s third-winningest coach. Shawn also served as an assistant coach at Philadelphia University for five seasons under the legendary Herb Magee. Throughout his career, he has trained and coached dozens of international professionals and countless NCAA DI, DII, and DIII athletes, with some going on to attend elite programs including the University of Maryland, Colgate, Lafayette, and Duke. Shawn is committed to helping athletes reach their highest potential both on and off the court.

Tyler Sandora serves as the Lead High School Evaluator, and Director of the Ivy League Elite Camp Tour for Uptown Basketball Academy.
A Temple University graduate, Tyler brings years of coaching and recruiting experience to the program. He spent three years coaching on the Addidas Circuit and previously served as an Assistant Coach at St. Joseph's Prep, where he helped develop high-level student-athletes both on and off the court.

Tyler oversees player evaluations for Uptown's high school program and plays a key role in helping families navigate the college recruiting process. Throughout his career, he has helped countless players continue their basketball careers at every level of college basketball.

As Director of the Ivy League Elite Camp Tour, Tyler provides players with opportunities to compete at elite academic institutions, gain valuable exposure, and build relationships with college coaches across the country. His passion for player development and eye for talent have made him a trusted resource for players and families looking to reach the next level.

Allen Rubin is a highly respected basketball evaluator and scout from Southeast Pennsylvania, known for his deep knowledge of the game and significant contributions to the Philadelphia basketball community. Over the years, Rubin has built a stellar reputation for identifying talent and helping thousands of young athletes secure opportunities to play college basketball.

A proud member of the Philadelphia Jewish Sports Hall of Fame, Rubin has been recognized for his profound impact on basketball in the region. His dedication to the game, coupled with his commitment to supporting young athletes and fostering community connections, has cemented his legacy in the Philadelphia basketball landscape.

Coach Gene Lambert serves as the Director of Uptown’s Alliance Teams, which compete exclusively in Made Hoops events and have produced numerous college-level players. A veteran coach with over two decades of experience, Lambert has led Octorara High School since 2001, where he has surpassed 300 career wins, captured two Ches-Mont League Championships, two District Championships, and coached ten 1,000-point scorers. His proven ability to develop talent and build winning teams is at the core of Uptown’s Alliance program.​

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Tim Clement is the 17U Head Coach for Uptown Basketball Academy and is widely regarded as one of the hardest-working and most respected talent evaluators in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

In just 2½ years with Uptown, he has helped more than 20 student-athletes continue their basketball careers after high school, with players advancing to NCAA Division I, II, III, and JUCO.

A lifelong student of the game, Tim has been involved with high school basketball in Southeastern Pennsylvania for more than 20 years, building strong relationships with coaches and earning a reputation for identifying talent. His knowledge of the local basketball landscape has made him a trusted resource for players, families, and college coaches alike.

As Uptown's 17U Head Coach, Tim is committed to helping players maximize their potential and find the best path for their future. Whether that path leads to Division I, Division III, junior college, or prep school, he works tirelessly to connect players with the right opportunities and prepare them for success both on and off the court.
 

Coach Dom, the current Head Coach at Boys’ Latin in West Philadelphia, brings over a decade of coaching experience across high school and AAU levels. He led Uptown’s 2025 16U team to the Made Hoops Circuit Championship in the program’s inaugural season. Dom has a proven record in individual skill development, training players from youth through NCAA and professional levels. His personalized approach emphasizes skill enhancement, mental toughness, and life lessons that extend beyond the court.

Coach Dom’s passion for teaching the game and commitment to player growth make him an invaluable part of the Uptown basketball family.

Peter Gard is the 15U MHC Head Coach and Social Media Director for Uptown Basketball Academy. A standout player at Germantown Friends School, Peter went on to play five seasons at Widener University, where he helped lead the Pride to a conference championship and an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2023.

Peter brings recent collegiate playing experience and a passion for developing young athletes. Through his work at camps, clinics, and team practices, he is committed to helping players grow both on and off the court.

Peter is also the founder of the Above the Rim Foundation, a nonprofit organization that has become a major supporter of Uptown Basketball Academy by providing financial aid and scholarships for families in need, helping ensure more young athletes have the opportunity to play and develop.

Whether he's coaching on the court, creating content behind the scenes, or giving back through the Above the Rim Foundation, Peter is dedicated to making a positive impact on the Uptown community.