Joshua Mendoza joined the FMU family as assistant men's basketball coach and head men's developmental basketball coach in 2022, and has quickly climbed the ranks to head men's basketball coach in summer of 2025.
Education:
· B.S. in Sport Entertainment from Johnson & Wales University
· M.B.A from Florida Memorial University
Playing Career:
Joshua Mendoza boasts an illustrious playing career, marked by his exceptional skills and contributions. A four-year starter at Johnson & Wales University, he was recognized as the Defensive Player of the Year in 2017. Following his collegiate career, Mendoza transitioned into professional basketball, playing for Regattas, Lima, and Osos De La Salle in Peru. His tenure in Peru was highlighted by two national championships in 2018 and 2019, where he was named Finals MVP on both occasions.
Coaching Career:
Florida Memorial University proudly announces Joshua Mendoza as its new Head Men’s Basketball Coach. Mendoza steps into the role following a decorated tenure as Associate Head Coach and Director of Operations, where his impact has been felt at every level of the program's rise to national prominence.
In his two seasons as Associate Head Coach, Mendoza helped lead the Lions to back-to-back NAIA National Tournament appearances in 2024 and 2025, compiling an impressive 47–15 overall record during that stretch. Known for his elite eye for talent, Mendoza played a pivotal role in recruiting several of the key contributors who powered FMU’s championship runs, including the 2024 Sun Conference Championship team and multiple All-Conference and All-American honorees.
Mendoza’s coaching career at FMU began with the developmental team, where he amassed a dominant 76–36 record and secured two Sun Conference Developmental League titles in 2022 and 2024. He was also instrumental in expanding the developmental league from 8 to 14 teams, enhancing competitive opportunities across the conference.
A native of South Florida, Mendoza was a four-year starter at Johnson & Wales University, where he earned Defensive Player of the Year and led his team to a TSC Final Four appearance. Following college, he played professionally across South America, winning championships in Peru's LNB and Copa Crisol leagues and being named Finals MVP.
Off the court, Mendoza founded Creation Basketball Academy in 2020, which has trained over 100 athletes and created partnerships with the Miami Heat, Orange Bowl, and other premier organizations to provide on-court opportunities for South Florida’s youth.
Known for his high basketball IQ, tireless work ethic, and ability to develop players at every level, Coach Mendoza brings a relentless commitment to excellence. His leadership is defined by preparation, passion, and performance—values that continue to elevate the Florida Memorial Men’s Basketball program to national relevance.
Creation Basketball Academy:
In addition to his collegiate coaching responsibilities, Mendoza is the visionary founder of Creation Basketball Academy, a premier youth basketball academy serving the aspiring athletes of South Florida. Through personalized coaching and comprehensive skill development programs, Creation Basketball Academy empowers young players to reach their full potential both on and off the court. Mendoza's commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and sportsmanship has earned Creation Basketball Academy widespread acclaim within the local community.
Notable Achievements:
· Named Sun Conference Developmental Commissioner
· Instrumental in the expansion of the Sun Conference Developmental League from 8 to 14 teams
· Assisted the men’s varsity program to two Sun Conference championships in 2022 and 2024, with subsequent national appearances.
· Led the men’s developmental basketball team to two Sun Conference Developmental championships in 2022 & 2024.
Personal Interests:
Beyond the basketball court, Mendoza is deeply passionate about community engagement and youth empowerment. He actively volunteers with local organizations to promote sportsmanship and academic achievement among underserved youth.
