From Courtside to Cybersphere: How Justin Drummond Is Leading Black Tech Leadership Through Innovation and Education
- Tammy Reese
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
By Tammy Reese
Hello Heart of Hollywood Magazine readers, please meet Justin Drummond. Once an NCAA Division 1 basketball standout, Drummond has transformed his competitive drive into a powerhouse mission that blends tech, innovation, and community impact. Today, as CEO of SparkC Innovation and the visionary behind CyberSphere Games, he stands at the forefront of reshaping cybersecurity education and creating long-term pathways for Black and Brown youth in the digital workforce. His journey from the court to the C-suite embodies discipline, foresight, and a commitment to ensuring the next generation doesn’t just enter the tech world but thrives in it.
What a journey you’ve had! From NCAA Championship D-1 basketball player to CEO of SparkC and creator of CyberSphere Games, what have been some of the most memorable moments in your career so far?
The most memorable moments of my career include being inducted into the University of Toledo Athletics Hall of Fame in 2024, playing in the NCAA and NIT tournaments, and earning All-Conference honors all four years. The best decision I made was choosing to stop playing basketball and start my business, SparkC, at age 20, given the 1% success rate for professional athletes. I wanted to utilize my intellectual abilities over my athletic abilities, knowing it would take me much farther in life.
You’ve dedicated your career to bridging the gap in cybersecurity education and workforce opportunities. For those who may not know, what does this work entail?
Starting my cybersecurity company, SparkC, opened my eyes to the lack of workforce preparedness within our communities, starting at the K-12 level. Other countries introduce children to technology and industry as early as age 7, while Black and Brown youth in the U.S. often aren’t exposed until it’s too late to reach mastery. Because Black and Brown youth have the lowest tech-literacy rates in the country, I am dedicated to changing that.
What else are you up to as of late? Any exclusive news you can share with us today?
CyberSphere Gaming recently signed a licensing deal with the largest STEM education provider in the U.S., Jason Learning. This partnership will expand CyberSphere Gaming’s reach to over 2 million students across more than 150 school districts nationwide. CyberSphere started as an idea in my office, and seeing it come to life has been an incredible feeling. With gaming becoming the future of education, we are positioning ourselves to ride that wave as a premier market provider.
What is a quote or motto you live by?
You may not have what you want, but as long as you have you NEED to keep going, KEEP GOING!
What is a super fun fact about yourself that many people are not aware of?
A fun fact about me is that I love working outdoors — cutting my grass, building things, and getting my hands dirty. Anytime I can get away from technology, I do. I also love to read.
Any advice for anyone who aspires to enter numerous fields like you have within tech, sports and innovation?
Take calculated risks while you’re young. I started my company at 20 because you need 8–10 years to figure things out — so the earlier you start, the earlier you arrive.
How can we keep up to date with you online?
Follow me on Instagram, X, Threats, TikTok, YouTube — @Justin.Drummond_
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