Jackals Head Coach Discusses Texas-Sized Title Hopes, Importance Of Community Support

JAMESTOWN – The newly hired Head Coach of the Jamestown Jackals said he’s ready and willing to guide his team to a North American Basketball League title in Texas, next week. 
Mark Anderson, whose resume includes not only head coaching stints with various organizations but player development experience, arrived in the city this week, after a whirlwind of activity led to his hiring.
“A mutual friend of Kayla Crosby and mine reached out to me and asked if I was interested in a short-term coaching opportunity,” said Anderson. “On Saturday we talked on the phone, Sunday we had things set in stone, and I was here on  Monday.”
The Jackals last played in early April when they wrapped up the NABL Northeast Division Title against the Chautauqua Hurricane.
Anderson has about a week left to get his players into “game shape” as they look to inch closer towards a NABL title.
“We have 10 players who are going pretty hard  for two hours a day,” Anderson said.  “The guys are meshing together real well because of their outstanding work ethic and dedication to get better.”
Getting to a point where a team can boast of playing for a title in the NABL is tough, but making a way to pay for the trip in a league that offers only opportunities not salaries, is something that few professional athletes must deal with.
The Jackals are scheduled to play the Tuscaloosa Titans on Saturday, August 4th in the  league’s Eastern Conference Championship game in Dallas, Texas.
“The community’s support, from what I’ve seen, has been outstanding,” said Anderson. “On Monday night we have a fundraiser at the Chautauqua Mall, at Five Guys. That would be an opportunity for the community to come out and well-wish.”
This championship run transcends a team’s collective skillset. One would argue that the success of the Jackals is about dedication to a community who is starting to embrace the young franchise.
Owner Kayla Crosby recently took to her Facebook page to express the organization’s gratitude

There’s still time to get involved with sending the team to Dallas!
Monday, July 30th the team will be hosting a fundraiser at Five Guys! Stop in anytime between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm, mention you are there to support the Jamestown Jackals and the team will receive a donation of 20% of your receipt.
Wednesday, August 1st, the team will be collaborating with Hoops on a Mission Founder, Dwayne Jackson to host a Free Youth Basketball Clinic on Wednesday, August 1 at Frewsburg High School for students 2nd Grade – 6th Grade. The clinic will take place from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. and include snacks during a motivation talk.
Later that evening, the team will hold a scrimmage at Maple Grove High School starting at 7:00.  At that time, donations will be accepted at the door to help raise funds for the trip.