JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Jacksonville 95ers started their inaugural season in The Basketball League, showcasing a blend of passion and sacrifice as players pursue their dreams, despite facing financial challenges.
Christian Terrell, a shooting guard for the Jacksonville 95ers, highlighted the lack of balance in his schedule, stating, "There's not much balance to be honest with you. I go to work early in the morning, I get done around 5 o'clock, I have a few hours and then come here to practice."
Terrell also mentioned he is, "A basketball coach at Jacksonville University. I just wrapped up my first year. Starting up my second year now."
Terrell, like some of his other teammates, still has to work a second job because The Basketball League (TBL) doesn't pay a lot.
Echoing Terrell's sentiments, Ross Gerulis, an assistant coach for the 95ers, disclosed his additional role as a maintenance worker at a local charter school.
"I have two young kids, and I know a couple of our guys have kids as well and families and jobs and all these other things going on outside of that," added Gerulis, reflecting on the challenges faced by the players beyond basketball.
Tevin Broyles, another shooting guard for the team, expressed his unwavering dedication to basketball despite the challenges, stating, "I basically took a leap of faith and came out here because I still was pursuing a career in basketball."
Despite the sacrifices required, players affirm the significance of pursuing their passion for basketball.
Broyles emphasized the spiritual aspect of persevering through discouragement, stating, "It's definitely going to be moments of discouragement and feeling like it's time for something else, but I feel like that's when God tests you the most. You know what I'm saying? I feel like he wants to see 'Do you really want what you're asking for?'"
Currently boasting a 3-1 record, the Jacksonville 95ers prepare for their upcoming game against Coastal Georgia on April 5. Fans can anticipate their next home game on April 11 against Raleigh.
For the 95ers full schedule, click HERE.