Jonathan Barfield, originally from Memphis, Tennessee, is a graduate of Tennessee State University. His background as a collegiate and Eurobasket athlete laid the foundation for his career in basketball development and coaching.
From an early age, Jonathan’s passion for the game went beyond competition—he saw basketball as a tool for discipline, leadership, and lifelong growth. That vision now drives his mission to help young athletes unlock their full potential both on and off the court.
Coaching Experience
Jonathan has served as a varsity coach at St. Paul Christian Academy and is currently an assistant coach at Montgomery Bell Academy. His experience on the sidelines and on the court gives him a unique perspective in shaping athletes at every stage of their careers.
Known for his ability to connect with players, Jonathan emphasizes fundamentals, confidence, and work ethic. Many of the athletes he’s coached have gone on to thrive in competitive programs, proving his impact extends far beyond a single season.
Inspired Athletes
In October 2022, Jonathan launched Inspired Athletes, a basketball skill development program that has already trained over 500 athletes across Middle Tennessee. The program is quickly growing, with a focus on preparing athletes for success at both the collegiate and professional levels.
What makes Inspired Athletes different is Jonathan’s personalized approach—each athlete receives training designed to fit their skill set, goals, and mindset. The program has become a trusted name among families, schools, and aspiring athletes looking for serious development.
Partnerships & Affiliations
Jonathan is a respected trainer connected with Core Hoops, Upward Stars, Vertical Gyms, and Pro Skills Basketball. He has also built partnerships with more than ten marketing agencies to expand his brand and impact.
Through these collaborations, Jonathan has gained access to wider platforms, reaching athletes not just in Nashville but across the region. His professional network continues to grow, positioning Inspired Athletes as a leader in skill development.
Recognition & Media Features
His leadership and business growth have been featured in multiple publications, including Valiant CEO, Entrepreneur Impact, Shoutout Atlanta, Stardom101, Bold Journey, Canvas Rebel, Voyager Nashville, Dallas Voyager, Good News Magazine, and Thrive Times US. He was recently recognized as one of the Top 5 Rising Titans in Business to Follow in 2025.
These features highlight Jonathan’s story of resilience, vision, and entrepreneurial drive. By combining his athletic background with his business acumen, he has become a role model for both athletes and young entrepreneurs alike.
Future Goals
Jonathan is currently pursuing the purchase of a dedicated training facility to expand Inspired Athletes and continue pushing the program to higher levels of performance and opportunity.
His long-term vision is to create a hub where athletes of all ages can train, learn, and grow under one roof. With the foundation he’s already built, Jonathan is well on his way to shaping the future of basketball development in Middle Tennessee and beyond.
