All The Smoke Drug Dealer to AAU Dream Maker: The Curtis Malone Story
Nov 24, 2025
Curtis Malone, a former D.C. grassroots basketball organizer and founder of DC Assault, shares his extraordinary journey from drug dealer to AAU powerhouse. He reveals the stark contrasts of his double life, mentoring future NBA stars like Michael Beasley while secretly operating a criminal empire. Malone discusses the FBI takedown that changed everything, his struggles with addiction, and his heartfelt desire for redemption through his memoir, 'Duplicity.' He reflects on the evolving AAU landscape and the importance of integrity in youth sports.
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Redemption Over Regret
- Curtis Malone wrote his book to share lessons from falling and rebuilding.
- He wants readers to learn you can get back up and keep pushing after failure.
From Rec Center To AAU Powerhouse
- Curtis described founding DC Assault after mentoring kids post-incarceration and coaching at a rec center.
- The program grew quickly and aimed to change lives, not just win games.
Toughness Beats Fancy Backgrounds
- Curtis says DC kids' toughness and hunger set them apart more than raw talent.
- He emphasized recruiting kids from one-bedroom homes who used basketball as escape.
