Mark Pope hasn’t even coached Acaden Lewis yet, but he’s already beaming with pride. And why wouldn’t he be? The future Wildcat isn’t just making plays on the court—he’s making a difference off it.
This past week, Lewis stood before the U.S. Capitol, not to talk basketball, but to fight for opportunity—something he knows a thing or two about.
So proud of @AcadenLewis who spoke at the U.S. Capitol earlier this week. Pretty cool experience, maturity and leadership from a high school senior. Excited to have him join our program later this year. pic.twitter.com/M26cq6Cjow
— Mark Pope (@CoachMarkPope) January 31, 2025
A senior at Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., Lewis gave a speech in support of the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program (OSP), a program that helped him attend private school instead of his local public options.
“All it takes is one,” Lewis said. “And hopefully, I can be that one.”
It’s that mentality—the belief that hard work, opportunity, and a little help along the way can change everything—that has made Lewis who he is.
From Trinidad to the Big Stage
Lewis’ journey didn’t start in some high-rise condo or a gated community. He grew up in Trinidad, a tough neighborhood in Northeast D.C., where opportunity wasn’t knocking—it had to be chased down.
Basketball became his way forward. From early morning workouts at the local Trinidad Recreation Center (which he later tattooed on his arm) to grinding in the classroom, Lewis took every step necessary to build a better future.
But private school? That was another level entirely.
At first, he landed at St. John’s College High School, a prestigious basketball program in D.C., but the $24,000-a-year tuition was a steep hill to climb. That’s when Lewis’ family found out about OSP, which provided tuition assistance based on financial need. Thanks to the program, he later transferred to Sidwell Friends, where tuition runs a jaw-dropping $56,000 per year.
Thanks to OSP and additional school aid, Lewis got the opportunity of a lifetime. And now, he’s fighting to make sure others have the same chance.
Excellence is the Standard
Mark Pope loves guys who embrace a challenge, and Lewis is the definition of that.
At Sidwell, he didn’t just survive—he thrived. On the court, he developed into a high-major Division I recruit. In the classroom, he maintained strong grades, despite adjusting to a rigorous academic environment. (That first "C" in physics was a humbling moment, though.)
“It’s a different teenage life than most,” Lewis admitted. “But I wouldn’t say I’m missing out. Just getting a different look at it.”
Even now, before stepping foot in Lexington, Lewis is paying it forward. His father, Jarett, has worked to connect families with other educational opportunities like Howard University’s Upward Bound program, ensuring more kids in their community get the support they need.
Because for Lewis, this isn’t just about basketball—it’s about building something bigger.
When Lewis arrives in Lexington later this year, he’ll bring more than just his game—he’ll bring a story, a purpose, and a determination that Pope can’t wait to coach.