Jacksonville College Suspends Basketball

Following a lengthy review of all the programs at Jacksonville College, the Administration and Board of Trustees have decided to suspend participation in men’s and women’s basketball at the end of the 2023-2024 school year. This decision provides the best opportunity for long-term financial stability and the continued pursuit of the College’s mission to provide Christ-centered teaching and training.

“This is a difficult decision,” said President David Erickson, “that in no way reflects on the success of our teams, our student-athletes, or our coaches. I am very proud of our basketball program which has emphasized character formation just as much as excellence on the court. Ultimately this decision allows us to focus our resources on our core mission as a Christian college.”

Founded in 1899, Jacksonville College is the only Christian junior college in Texas. Basketball has been played at the college since 1912 and the Jacksonville College Jaguars won their first championship in 1937.

The decision impacts approximately 20 student-athletes. The Jacksonville College Jaguars will continue to compete in soccer, golf, tennis, cross country and track and field.

Jacksonville College will host town hall meetings at 7 p.m., Friday, March 22, and at 7 p.m., Tuesday, March 26 in the Curtis Carroll Gym for alumni and community members who would like to know more about the suspension of basketball and plans for the future of athletics at the college.