A bond between two friends.
A story of honor, a Journey of Friendship, Family, and Resilience:
The Story of Joe Richards and Cordell Lord
Joe Richards and my son, Cordell Lord, share a bond that began in grade school through their mutual love of basketball. Their friendship grew as they played together, first on local teams and later on more competitive stages. As a basketball trainer and a community advocate, I (Corey A. Lord) was naturally involved in their journey. Over time, my relationship with Joe deepened, leading me to become one of his many coaches. It was through Joe that I met his mother, JoMarie, and together, our families bonded into one.
As the boys’ friendship blossomed, they played for various teams, including their middle and high school squads at North Penn High School. These years were marked by their shared dedication to basketball and their relentless pursuit of excellence. Our home became a second home for Joe, as weekends and holidays were often spent perfecting their craft at CAL Sports Academy. Together, they participated in AAU Basketball, traveling across Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia, competing against top-tier teams and building memories that would last a lifetime.
Beyond basketball, Joe’s vibrant personality shone through his love of music. He often rapped or danced before practices, showcasing his talent for writing and performing.
This passion led to recognition for his musical abilities, and he seemed poised for a bright future both on the court and in music.
Joe and Cordell’s hard work and determination paid off as they both earned opportunities to play collegiate basketball. Tragically, Joe’s journey took an unexpected turn when a car accident left him critically injured, changing the course of his life forever. The accident placed Joe in the loving care of his parents, JoMarie and Nate Barnes, who have dedicated their lives to his recovery.
Despite these challenges, Joe’s story is one of resilience and hope. Over the past seven years, he has made remarkable progress. Though he cannot fully respond, his gestures and smiles light up any room he enters. His family’s unwavering love and support have allowed him to travel, attend sporting events, and inspire everyone he meets.
Recently, Joe was honored in a deeply meaningful way. When Cordell became the head coach at North Penn High School after serving as an assistant coach, he made sure his lifelong friend shared the spotlight. Cordell’s regular check-ins with Joe’s family underscore the enduring bond between our families. It is moments like these that remind me why CAL Sports Academy exists: to build genuine relationships that enrich lives far beyond the basketball court.
December 6th, 2024, was a very special day. It was the day Cordell, the new coach of North Penn High School, shared the spotlight and honor his lifelong friend. Cordell’s regular check-ins with Joe’s family underscore the enduring bond between our families. It is moments like these that remind me why CAL Sports Academy exists: to build genuine relationships that enrich lives far beyond the basketball court.
Joe remains an integral part of our hearts and lives. At 6’7″, he is a towering figure not just physically but in spirit. While we often reminisce about the incredible basketball career he could have had, we also see God’s hand in his journey. Joe’s determination and his family’s faith continue to inspire us all.
Sharing Joe’s story is a privilege. He is a testament to the power of perseverance, love, and community. As we pray for his continued progress, we are reminded that God’s plan is greater than we can imagine. Joe Richards’ light shines brightly, and it is an honor to celebrate his life and legacy.
Love Coach Corey!