“The Bible teaches us that everything happens for a reason, according to God’s plan for our lives. And, that’s why I’m here at NSU.”
The words of RiverHawks linebacker Jordan Banks emphasize the passion to the mission and why he decided to “come to the ‘Quah.”
Coming out of Narbonne High School in Los Angeles, California the consensus 4-star athlete held 30-plus major college offers to play football including power-5 D-I level offers as a linebacker or defensive end including Alabama, Oklahoma, Ohio State and Washington.
“I waited too long and those schools went another direction and I ended up going to Arizona State for one season before entering the portal and moving to Northwestern State Louisiana where while earning my bachelor’s degree I met coach (Jeremy) Atwell, one of the coaches here at Northeastern State,” smiled the confident member of the NSU football team who prepares to enter his senior campaign. “After checking out all of the recruiting promises, the Tahlequah community and how coach Chev (Chiaverini) wanted to change the future, I was convinced that I could not only be a great athlete but also find the success in the classroom that will serve my needs for the future.”
In the 2024 season opener, Jordan encountered another challenge after sustaining an injury that would put him on the sidelines.
“I’ve had more than my share of setbacks including the death of one of my hometown brothers in LA, Jordan Johnson, another teammate being shot while in Louisiana and our season being cancelled but like I said, it’s all part of God’s plan,” said Banks while touching his heart with compassion and explaining the reason he wears the number-6 jersey for the RiverHawks.
While Banks remains in pursuit of winning football games this fall at NSU, he also is pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Relations. He also enjoys the extras like having a new place to go to the beach.
“There are multiple reasons for any student to come to the ‘Quah. The businesses welcome you; they know your name and make you feel at home. I’ve also found a new beachfront on the Illinois River where I can go fishing,” said Banks. “I appreciate the way the administration is tuned in with the students and their needs. They’ve worked with me on getting me into the right classes and get me prepared for my future in real estate or in sports marketing. Literally, just like in football, they’ve helped me with the X’s and O’s to find the right path to where I want to go in the future. NSU will do the same for you. Follow me and come to the ‘Quah.”
