Mizzou's Newest Star Brings More Than Just Hoops Talent

When Missouri basketball coach Dennis Gates recruited Jacob Crews, he knew he was getting more than just a talented player. Crews, a transfer wing from UT Martin, comes with a family in tow – his wife, Karmen, and their newborn son, JJ. This unique dynamic played a crucial role in Crews' decision to join the Tigers, as Gates made it clear that family was just as important as basketball.

A Transformational Recruitment Focused on Family

The Family-First Approach

Gates' recruitment of Crews stood out from the rest, as the coach prioritized the well-being of Crews' family over basketball. Instead of focusing solely on Crews' impressive on-court performance, Gates made it a point to inquire about Crews' wife and their newborn son. This personal touch resonated with Crews, who was impressed by Gates' genuine interest in his family's needs.

A Package Deal

Crews revealed that Gates made it clear from the start that he was recruiting the entire family, not just the player. The coach insisted that Crews' son, JJ, was part of the deal, and the transfer was welcomed to bring his family along on the journey. This family-centric approach set Gates and Missouri apart from the numerous other programs that were vying for Crews' services.

Transforming the Recruitment Process

Gates' strategy in recruiting Crews was a departure from the typical transactional nature of college basketball recruiting. Rather than making it all about basketball, the coach sought to create a transformational experience for Crews and his family. This holistic approach, which prioritized the well-being of the entire family, ultimately sealed the deal and brought Crews to Missouri.

A Unique Commitment Story

Crews' commitment to Missouri was a quick one, with the decision being made just eight days after he entered the transfer portal. This swift decision was largely influenced by Crews' wife, who was an active participant in the recruitment process. She even joked with Crews about when he would finally tell Gates that he was committed, further highlighting the family's involvement in the decision.

A Promising Addition to the Tigers

Crews' arrival at Missouri has generated significant excitement, as he joins a talented roster that includes the likes of Mark Mitchell, Tony Perkins, and Marques Warrick. The 6-foot-8 wing is expected to play a crucial role for the Tigers, bringing his impressive scoring and rebounding abilities from his time at UT Martin.

Chasing a Championship

Crews has a clear goal in mind for his final collegiate season: to win a championship. Having experienced success at his previous stops, Crews is determined to lead the Tigers to new heights and secure an NCAA Tournament berth, something he has yet to achieve in his career. With his family by his side, Crews is poised to make the most of his opportunity at Missouri.As the Tigers embark on the 2023-24 season, the addition of Jacob Crews and his family represents a unique and transformative recruitment process that sets the stage for an intriguing campaign. Gates' family-first approach has not only landed a talented player but also a committed family unit that is ready to embrace the Mizzou experience together.