NAIT Ooks men's basketball coach, Jordan Baker, is making his name known on and off the court. He was a long-time student-athlete at the U of A before making his way to the CEBL, where he has just finished his third season on the team. Baker, the captain of the Edmonton Stingers, said his natural ability to lead helped him move from one side of the bench to the other. 

"I've always gravitated towards leadership roles as an athlete. I take pride in my ability to lead by example and empower my teammates to reach their potential. As I matured, I realized that I could be an extension of the coaching staff while on the floor, so I became a more vocal presence throughout my professional career," said Baker. 

Jordan Bakers' professional career began right after university, where he played with the Orange Academy Ratiopharm of the German Pro B League for the 2014-2015 season. In 2015 he played with Galitos Barreiro of the Portuguese LPB League for a season. In 2018 Jordan Baker suited up for the Stinger's inaugural season. Being on both sides of the bench helps him become a better coach.

"One of my strengths as a head coach is being able to relate to the student-athletes in our program. Part of that is due to the fact that I am still playing professionally, but also that I am less than ten years removed from being a student-athlete. My decisions are always influenced by how they impact the student-athlete experience, and I know I always appreciated when my past coaches did the same," said Baker. 

As a student-athlete, Jordan Baker made his presence known from the beginning and was named to the CIS All-Rookie Team in 2010. It didn't stop there; he was named to the CIS First Team All-Canadian in 2012 and 2014, and by the time he was done with the Golden Bears, he was the all-time leader in career points, rebounds, assists, steals, and minutes played.

Ooks Guard Griffin Lorenz said that having a coach that is also a player has had a considerable impact on the program; Baker isn't a coach that sits on the sidelines in practice. 

"Yes, he plays with us in scrimmages and drills, especially at the end of our season when he's preparing to play for the Stingers. I enjoy it because it allows him to lead by example and show us exactly what he wants us to do, and we can all see it first-hand. It also makes us better playing with him as he's obviously a good player, but he never stops coaching and communicating with us when we play, and we're constantly learning. He also does not go easy on us and hates losing, so it makes for some interesting practices," said Lorenz. 

When asked if he had a favorite side of the bench, Baker said," I enjoy both for different reasons. As a player, you are able to impact the game directly, and the comradery you build with your teammates is what makes the varsity experience so special. As a coach, I take great pride in seeing young student-athletes experience success on both an individual and collective level. Both roles are rewarding, but I'm excited to grow and learn more about myself as a head coach.   

Catch the NAIT Ooks men's basketball team in action this fall! Their season opener is October 21st at 8 PM.