Derrell Edwards, a former basketball luminary turned NASCAR pit crew sensation, embarked on his remarkable journey in the world of sports by leading the High Point University men’s basketball team to a triumphant Big South Conference championship in his senior year. A surprising twist of fate introduced Edwards to the high-octane world of NASCAR during that same pivotal year, when a conversation about a pit crew opportunity altered the course of his career.
Securing an internship with Richard Childress Racing (RCR) in the spring of his final college year, Edwards devoted himself to mastering the intricacies of NASCAR. Following his graduation, he honed his skills in the ARCA Series before ascending to the Xfinity series and the Monster Energy Series, ultimately earning a full-time position with Menard.
Edwards’s narrative took a historic turn as he became an integral part of the Drive for Diversity program, contributing to the winning team alongside Darrell Wallace Jr., who achieved the runner-up position and marked a milestone as the highest-finishing African-American driver in the Daytona 500. Edwards, an over-the-wall crew member, etched his name in history as the first African-American to celebrate victory in the iconic race.
Beyond the racetrack, Edwards is known for his unwavering faith, regularly sharing inspirational messages on his Twitter account. Continuing to contribute professionally to NASCAR, Edwards is poised to create a legacy of success within the dynamic and competitive realm of stock car racing. His journey from the basketball court to the pit crew exemplifies resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence in the face of unexpected opportunities.