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The College of St. Scholastica has hired Jared Drake as its next men’s basketball head coach. Most recently, Drake served as assistant coach at the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith.
Widely respected for his passion for player development, attention to detail, and ability to build authentic relationships, Drake brings to St. Scholastica a comprehensive skill set that includes scouting, recruiting, individualized training, offensive and defensive concept development and film analysis. Most importantly, he leads purposefully, investing in the personal and holistic growth of every student-athlete under his care.
Raised in a basketball-centric household, Drake was inspired early on by his father, Leonard Drake, who served as both associate head coach and head coach at multiple Division I programs.
Jared’s playing journey began at Ozen High School (Beaumont, TX) and continued at James Whitcomb Riley High School (South Bend, IN). He went on to play collegiately at Robert Morris College (Chicago, IL), earning an Associate of Applied Science in Exercise Science, before transferring to Southern University of New Orleans (LA), where he was named “Newcomer of the Year”. He concluded his collegiate career with a Bachelor of Arts & Science in Information Management Systems.
After a successful professional playing career that included stints with three developmental league teams, Drake began his coaching career as a volunteer at his alma mater. His path led him through several high-impact programs, including Glenwood Leadership Academy, Evansville Central High School and Bosse High School, where he helped guide teams to sectional, regional and semi-state titles, culminating in a state runner-up finish.
In 2016, Drake transitioned to the collegiate ranks as associate head coach at Philander Smith College (Little Rock, AR), working alongside NBA veteran Todd Day. The duo led the team to a conference championship appearance and earned Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Coach of the Year honors. During this time, Drake also completed his Master of Science in Coaching Education from Ohio University in 2018.
"It is with great excitement and honor that we introduce Coach Jared Drake as the new leader of The College of St. Scholastica men’s basketball program,” said Saints Athletic Director Jessica Cherry. “His passion for the game, bold vision and commitment to student-athlete development made a lasting impression on all of us. We knew we needed someone who could lead with both vision and heart, and Coach Drake is that person. He understands the power of basketball as a tool to shape lives and unite a campus and community. Coach Drake is ready to elevate and build a program of excellence that will be meaningful and lasting, both in competition and character. We look forward to his impact on our student-athletes, Saints family and the future of Saints Basketball."
"I’m incredibly honored and excited to accept the role of head men’s basketball coach at The College of St. Scholastica,” said Drake. “I want to sincerely thank Director Jessica Cherry for believing in me and giving me this opportunity. I’m truly grateful and don’t take it for granted. These are the moments that dreams are made of. I’m fired up and ready to build a first-class program that wins with toughness, class and pride. This isn’t just about basketball; it’s about developing young men and leaving a lasting legacy. Let’s build something legendary, together!"
