| March 21, 2004
John J. DeGioia, Ph.D
President
Georgetown University
37th and O Streets, NW
Washington, DC 20057
Dear Jack:
We are writing to you at this time because of our concern for the future
of the Men’s Basketball program.
It was not so long ago that each of us was recruited and evaluated by
the Men’s Basketball program. At that time, Georgetown was considered
a very prestigious institution known for its distinguished faculty and
commitment to a liberal arts education. Athletically, Georgetown enjoyed
national prominence due to the phenomenal success of men’s basketball.
Considering all this, there was no question where many top recruits and
we would choose. Georgetown provided the complete package. It provided
an incredible opportunity for us to get a top-notch education and develop
our game for potential professional opportunities. We take pride in our
affiliation with Georgetown Basketball. The legacy is and will forever
be a part of our lives.
While Georgetown’s academic prestige has never faltered, the same
cannot be said about our basketball program. Understanding Georgetown’s
long sense of tradition and loyalty, we know that the decisions you have
had to make recently have been difficult. We realize, too, that the decision
to “move in another direction”, is equally difficult but nevertheless
must be done.
We are at a crossroads. And it is clear to us that we need a new head
coach who provides a new direction. We need a head coach who can reclaim
our status as a powerhouse, a force to be reckoned with in the Big East
Conference and NCAA tournament. Therefore, we hope that you (and those
involved in the selection of a new head coach) will stay mindful of tradition,
loyalty and at the same time take the bold step in the name of change.
We believe the team would be best served at this time with Jaren Jackson
as head coach.
Jaren Jackson distinguished himself as a student-athlete and a professional
athlete. His life story, certainly his basketball career, clearly exhibits
Georgetown values. He is committed to excellence. He is committed to public
service. He is a winner. And best of all he is one of us.
There may be some that will argue that Jaren Jackson has not been coaching
long enough to assume the helm. However, having played for a number of
NBA teams means more than he traveled a lot. Jaren had the opportunity
to play for and learn from such highly regarded coaches as Larry Brown,
Phil Jackson, Gregg Popovich, and Flip Saunders, in addition to our own
Coach John Thompson. These coaches are known for their ability to enhance
basketball player development. More importantly, they also demonstrate
the ability to relate to their players, which these days is critical.
In addition to a complete knowledge of the game, we know college coaches
must possess the ability to raise enthusiasm and dollars for their programs.
Jaren ran a successful summer youth program for five years. The success
of that program depended on his ability to reach out to a diverse group
of business and community leaders. Once again, his dedication paid off,
as he was able to gain their cooperation and financial support.
Jaren came back to Georgetown because he cares about the university,
he cares about the program, and he cares about the players. We strongly
believe that Jaren is the person who can bring the program back to its
national level of prominence and respectability.
The selection of the next leader of our program is important to us. Please
do not hesitate to call any of us for further comment or to offer assistance
during this time.
Sincerely,
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