NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Drew Maddux, executive vice president of people development for Top 100 Dufresne Spencer Group, is known for his trick basketball shots.
While the Memphis, Tenn.-based retailer, which owns and operates Ashley stores in 12 states, was presenting a donation for the Hope to Dream organization, Maddux set a new world record for the highest basketball shot ever made while seated atop the 21-story Omni Nashville Hotel.
With a crowd looking on, Maddux calmly swished a shot 260 feet below onto the hotel’s fourth-floor observation deck. His shot smashed the previous world record shot from a seated position of just over 64 feet.
“It felt right leaving my hands and I just left the rest up to gravity,” the Nashville resident said.
Maddux’s latest feat comes seven years after he started making trick shots as a friendly family challenge. His skill and dedication have propelled him to success, with over 100 trick shots made. He now holds six world records, including the highest blindfolded shot which he also made at Nashville hotel.
Soon after the shot, he was on hand with other DSG representatives to present the company’s donation of $10,000 to Ashley’s Hope to Dream, a charitable organization which provides new beds to children across the country, including those in the Nashville area. DSG ranks No. 16 in Furniture Today’s 2023 Top 100, making it the largest of Ashley’s licensees.
“In my career, I work to help people grow and discover their purpose as individuals and as team members, basically helping them understand they belong and they matter,” Maddox said. “Every child deserves the chance to dream – and dream big, just like me.”
Maddox says he hopes to return to the hotel soon for another trick shot he has up his sleeve.
“We’re delighted to offer a setting where Drew can showcase his amazing trick shot skills and at the same time, help Nashville-area children in need,” said Tod Roadarmel, area director of sales and marketing of Omni Hotels & Resorts. “Anytime he wants to return for another challenge, we’ll be ready.”