Senior Jaelynn James has announced her commitment to continuing her academic and athletic career at Black Hawk Community College. Located in Moline, Ill, Black Hawk has a NJCAA division II women’s basketball program.
James has been a popular name on the court as she’s been on varsity all four of her high school seasons. When asked why she chose to play basketball for Black Hawk, James stated “The coaching staff, facility, and team structure were very high criteria on [her] list!” She saw Black Hawk as the right fit for her after various visits. She also loves that it is “close to home!” Being close to home is important to James, because her family is extremely important to her.
She’s had a very special high school basketball experience as she’s had the opportunity to play alongside her little sister. James’ sister and teammate, junior Joslynn James is “happy for [her] sister, but sad because no one else can replace the bond that [they] shared while [they] played together.”
Despite this change, she’s excited for this new chapter of her life and to continue her basketball career, she’s “most excited [to make] new friends, step out of her comfort zone, and learn more about herself.” When asked who her biggest influence on and off the court is, James stated, “My biggest influence is God. I follow his plan no matter what challenges and setbacks I face.”
Alongside continuing her athletic career, James plans to further her academic career at Black Hawk. She plans to major in business, accounting, or medical fields but is undecided.
With this new opportunity, Black Hawk didn’t just add an amazing basketball player; but an amazing student and friend ready to make an impact her freshman year.
