The Johnstown 36ers Ownership Group is committed to building a first-class professional basketball organization that represents the pride, passion, resilience, and spirit of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

Led by Team Owner and Managing Partner Darrin “Slim” Akers and Executive Director of Basketball Operations Lenny Cooke, the Johnstown 36ers are built on a foundation of basketball excellence, community investment, and a shared vision of creating something legendary for the city of Johnstown.

The 36ers represent the continuation of a vision that began with the Atlantic City Seagulls, where Akers and Cooke worked together to build a high-intensity, competitive basketball program focused on winning, player development, and creating an exciting experience for fans. Under Cooke’s leadership as General Manager, the Seagulls developed a reputation for their fast-paced style of play and explosive offensive performances, including a historic scoring performance that saw the team surpass 200 points in a game and establish itself as one of the most exciting teams in league history.

After building a strong foundation in Atlantic City, the organization made the decision to relocate to Johnstown, Pennsylvania, bringing professional basketball to a city with a proud sports tradition, passionate fans, and a community ready for a new chapter. The move to Johnstown represents more than a change of location. It represents a commitment to becoming part of the fabric of the community and creating a lasting legacy for generations to come.

The Johnstown 36ers ownership group believes professional sports should be more than entertainment. It should create opportunities, inspire youth, support local businesses, and serve as a catalyst for economic growth. The organization’s mission is to build a sustainable franchise that delivers championship-level basketball while creating programs focused on youth development, education, internships, community partnerships, and civic engagement.

Darrin “Slim” Akers

Team Owner & Managing Partner

Darrin “Slim” Akers is the founder, owner, and Managing Partner of the Johnstown 36ers. An entrepreneur, entertainment executive, and business leader, Akers brings years of experience in branding, marketing, media, business development, and community-focused initiatives.

Akers’ vision for the 36ers extends beyond the basketball court. His goal is to build an organization that becomes a cornerstone of the Johnstown community while creating new opportunities for athletes, families, businesses, and future generations.

Through strategic leadership and a commitment to innovation, Akers is focused on developing the Johnstown 36ers into a nationally recognized professional sports organization while creating a model franchise built on excellence, integrity, and community impact.

Lenny Cooke

Executive Director of Basketball Operations

Lenny Cooke serves as the Executive Director of Basketball Operations for the Johnstown 36ers, bringing decades of basketball knowledge, talent evaluation experience, and leadership to the organization.

A nationally recognized basketball talent during his playing career, Cooke has long been respected for his understanding of the game and ability to identify and develop basketball talent. His experience in team building and player development has made him a key figure in establishing a winning culture.

As General Manager of the Atlantic City Seagulls, Cooke worked alongside Akers to build a high-energy basketball program that gained recognition for its competitive style and record-setting performances. Now with the Johnstown 36ers, Cooke oversees basketball operations, including player recruitment, roster construction, scouting, coaching support, and player development.

His mission is to build a championship-caliber basketball program while helping athletes achieve success both on and off the court.

Building The Legends Legacy

The Johnstown 36ers are committed to creating a long-term home and legacy in Johnstown through the development of the Legends initiative, a vision designed to provide world-class facilities and opportunities for athletes, fans, and the community.

Legends Hall

Team Headquarters & Player Development Center

Legends Hall will serve as the home of the Johnstown 36ers organization, featuring team offices, basketball operations, a team store, player housing, training resources, and community spaces. Designed to create a professional environment for athletes and staff, Legends Hall represents the foundation of the organization’s commitment to building a sustainable franchise.

Legends Center

Community & Basketball Development Facility

The Legends Center will serve as a hub for basketball development, community programs, youth camps, training opportunities, and local events. The facility will provide a place where athletes of all ages can learn, compete, and grow while bringing the community together through sports.

Legends Arena

The Future Home of the Johnstown 36ers

The ultimate vision is Legends Arena, a premier basketball venue designed to provide fans with a first-class professional sports experience. The arena concept represents the future of the franchise and the organization’s commitment to creating a lasting entertainment destination in Johnstown.

Together, Legends Hall, Legends Center, and Legends Arena represent the long-term vision of the Johnstown 36ers: building not only a basketball team, but an organization that creates opportunity, drives community pride, and leaves a legacy that will stand for generations.

The Johnstown 36ers are not just bringing basketball back. They are building something legendary.