John Jakus has recently been named the head men’s basketball coach at Florida Atlantic University, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his successful stints at Baylor and Gonzaga.
He spent 12 years in coaching roles with both universities, gaining a reputation as a highly-regarded assistant coach.
His move to FAU marks a significant shift for the team, promising to inject new energy and expertise into their program.
Jakus’s journey to becoming FAU’s head coach is noteworthy not just for his coaching accolades but also for his commitment to building strong, competitive teams.
As the associate head coach at Baylor since 2022, he contributed to Baylor’s consistent performance and helped develop numerous standout players.
His experience under renowned coaches like Scott Drew and Mark Few has uniquely prepared him for this new leadership role.
Who Is John Jakus?
John Jakus is the head coach of the Florida Atlantic Owls men’s basketball team as of March 2024. A dedicated worker with a strong reputation, Jakus brings experience from coaching under renowned figures like Scott Drew and Mark Few.
Let’s explore more about his background and personal life.
Where Did John Jakus Grow Up?
John Jakus was born on October 9, 1975. Though specific details about his early life and upbringing are less widely known, he developed a deep passion for basketball during his formative years.
His dedication and love for the game set the stage for his future as both a player and coach.
Growing up, he likely drew inspiration from both local and national basketball legends, shaping his coaching philosophy and commitment to the sport.
Where Did John Jakus Play College Basketball?
Jakus played college basketball at Trinity International University. While at Trinity, he pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies and Sport Management.
His experience as a college basketball player provided him with valuable insights into the game. These experiences also equipped him with the skills needed to pursue a coaching career.
His academic background in sport management has likely contributed to his abilities as a coach and leader, blending his knowledge of the sport with effective management practices.
Where Does John Jakus Live?
John Jakus currently resides in Boca Raton, South Florida.
This area offers a vibrant community and numerous beaches, creating a paradise-like environment.
It is also the home of Florida Atlantic University, where Jakus leads the men’s basketball team.
Living close to the university allows him to be an active member of the FAU community and provides him opportunities to engage with fans and supporters regularly.
Who Is John Jakus Married To?
John Jakus is married to Sara. Together, they have a family with three children: sons Brady and Cal, and daughter Harper.
His family plays a crucial role in his life, providing constant support throughout his career.
Sara and the children are often seen at games and events, embodying the sense of community and trust that Coach Jakus values.
Their presence exemplifies the close-knit family atmosphere that Jakus nurtures both at home and within his team.
John Jakus Professional Career
John Jakus has had a dynamic career in college basketball, coaching under some of the most successful head coaches in the sport before taking on a head coaching role himself. His career includes significant contributions at Baylor and Gonzaga, as well as his recent appointment at Florida Atlantic University.
What Teams Has John Jakus Previously Coached For?
John Jakus began his collegiate coaching career under Scott Drew at Baylor University.
He served as an assistant coach at Baylor from 2012 to 2014 and then returned in 2017, eventually becoming the associate head coach.
Jakus also worked at Gonzaga University from 2014 to 2017, coaching under Mark Few.
His tenure at these prestigious programs allowed him to gain substantial experience and success, helping both teams make significant NCAA tournament appearances.
What Team Is John Jakus Currently Coaching For?
John Jakus is currently the head coach for the Florida Atlantic Owls. He was appointed to this position in March 2024.
FAU aims to build on the momentum created by former coach Dusty May, who led the Owls to a national resurgence.
Jakus is expected to bring his extensive experience and winning culture from Baylor to the team, focusing on player development and recruiting top-tier talent to compete in the NCAA.
Does John Jakus Want To Coach In The NBA?
There is no publicly available information suggesting that John Jakus has aspirations to coach in the NBA. His focus seems to be on college basketball, where he has built his career.
At Baylor and Gonzaga, he demonstrated his ability to develop players who went on to earn All-America honors and become NBA draft picks, such as Jared Butler, Davion Mitchell, and James Akinjo.
What Are John Jakus Future Prospects?
Given his successful track record, John Jakus has significant potential for future success.
As the head coach at Florida Atlantic, he has the opportunity to shape the program and aim for conference crowns and NCAA tournament appearances.
His previous work at Baylor and Gonzaga indicates his ability to recruit top talent and build strong, offensive teams.
If his tenure at FAU is successful, it could lead to opportunities at other notable programs.
John Jakus Major Achievements And Awards
John Jakus has been a part of teams that achieved considerable success in college basketball.
At Baylor, he contributed to the program’s first national championship in 2021.
He also helped Baylor achieve multiple Big 12 conference titles and NCAA Sweet 16 appearances.
At Gonzaga, Jakus contributed to the team’s success in the NCAA tournament, including a Final Four appearance.
His work in player development has been recognized, with several of his players receiving national awards and honors.
Similar Coaches To John Jakus
John Jakus’s career mirrors those of several other successful college basketball coaches.
Coaches like Jerome Tang, who also served under Scott Drew at Baylor before taking a head coaching position, have a similar background.
Other coaches with significant collegiate coaching careers under successful head coaches, such as Tommy Lloyd from Gonzaga, also share similarities with Jakus.
These coaches have built programs, recruited top talent, and achieved notable successes in college basketball.
How Does John Jakus Do With NIL And Transfer Portal?
John Jakus has been active in leveraging both the NIL landscape and the transfer portal to build a competitive team. His strategies are noteworthy for their effective integration of new players and use of financial incentives.
John Jakus And Transfer Portal
John Jakus has shown a keen understanding of the transfer portal. Since becoming head coach, he and his team have worked extensively with division I transfers to strengthen the roster.
They have brought in experienced players from various programs, aiming to blend them with returning talent.
By utilizing the transfer portal, Jakus has added depth and skill to the team.
These transfers often bring with them valuable experience from other NCAA programs, helping to elevate the overall play.
His approach ensures that the team remains competitive, especially with regard to maintaining high standards for the NCAA tournament.
John Jakus And NIL Money
Jakus has also embraced the opportunities presented by NIL money, understanding its profound impact on college basketball.
Allowing athletes to profit from their name, image, and likeness has changed recruiting dynamics.
Jakus actively supports his players in securing NIL deals, boosting their financial stability and career prospects.
This forward-thinking approach makes Florida Atlantic a more attractive destination for talented recruits.
By encouraging players to take advantage of NIL opportunities, Jakus not only improves their personal situations but also positions the Owls as a progressive and player-friendly program.
How Much Is John Jakus’s Contract For?
John Jakus has a lucrative contract as the head basketball coach at Florida Atlantic University. The agreement includes a substantial annual salary and various incentives designed to reward performance.
How Much Does John Jakus Make In Salary Per Year?
John Jakus earns a base salary of $1 million per year.
This compensation package was negotiated when he replaced Dusty May as the head coach.
Jakus’s contract spans five years, ensuring him a stable and significant income over this period.
Boca Raton, FL, provides the backdrop for his coaching endeavors, with the university’s support reinforced by Athletic Director Brian White and President Stacy Volnick.
How Much Does John Jakus Make In Incentives Per Year?
In addition to his base salary, John Jakus has the opportunity to earn incentives.
These performance-based incentives include bonuses for team achievements such as winning conference titles and making NCAA tournament appearances.
Specific figures for these incentives can vary, but such clauses are common in high-profile coaching contracts.
This structure aims to motivate both Jakus and his team, helping to maintain high performance levels throughout the season.
What Is John Jakus Net Worth?
John Jakus, the head coach for the Florida Atlantic Owls men’s basketball team, has built a significant career in college basketball.
In 2024, Jakus signed a contract with Florida Atlantic University worth $1 million per year for five years. This lucrative deal came after his successful stints at Baylor and Gonzaga, where he developed a strong reputation.
Based on his current salary and past earnings, Jakus’s net worth can be estimated to be in the range of several million dollars. Most of this wealth comes from coaching salaries and performance bonuses.
John Jakus’s career trajectory has been impressive, contributing to his financial success. He has worked under prominent coaches like Scott Drew at Baylor and Mark Few at Gonzaga, which has helped him gain immense experience and value in the basketball community.
As a key figure in transforming the team culture and momentum at FAU, Jakus is highly regarded. His ability to mentor players like Johnell Davis and Alijah Martin further solidifies his position.
Jakus’s net worth reflects his dedication to the sport and his impact on college basketball. Hiring him has been a strategic move for the Florida Atlantic Owls, one that hopes to drive the team to new heights.