Jake Anderson
Iowa City, Iowa
Class of 2022
Why did you choose Central?
I chose Central because I was really excited about the Exercise Science Program and I loved the sense of community that the campus had. Central seemed to have a really strong community of Christ followers as well. I also really loved how Coach Douma put a big emphasis on character on and off of the court.
Favorite professor and why?
That’s a tough one. I would have to say it’s between Huisman, Franks, and Espinosa. All of those guys really work hard to make sure their students are learning the content and succeeding. They’re happy to help out when you need it and they’re also super nice guys. I really appreciate what all three of them have done for me in my time here.
You’re majoring in Business Management because?Â
I was originally an exercise science major, but then I realized I didn’t want to be a strength coach anymore and I felt God pulling me in the business direction. It seemed interesting, so after the first semester of my sophomore year I switched my major to Business Management. I decided to get a minor in Exercise Science as well since it is still a passion of mine.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I love going to FCA. Technically it’s related to athletics but it’s really all about community and ANYONE can come. Seriously, anyone is welcome! It’s nice to get together with my friends there on Tuesday nights and listen to different speakers, pray, and talk about what Jesus is doing in our lives. I always leave feeling better than when I came. God says that wherever two or three or more people are gathered in His name, there He will be also. It’s really cool to feel The Holy Spirit move through that room every week.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
Hands down Andy Mineo. He’s not the most popular but he has a pretty big following still. I like that I can listen to him to relax and also to get ready for a game. Lecrae is also one of the best artists out there.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
It has impacted my life in more ways than I can probably explain in one sitting. I’ll give you the short version. God put me exactly where He wanted me. Before I came here I really didn’t like basketball all that much and I wasn’t very confident in myself. After coming here I love the game more than I ever have and I’m working towards a goal of signing a professional contract after my senior season to play in another country. Not to mention the education I am receiving is going to prepare me for life after basketball so I can continue to glorify God and take care of my family. I learned how to lead, how to be confident and how to do everything I do to make Jesus more famous.
 If you could live in a book, movie, or tv show, what would it be and why?Â
I would probably live in The Office. I feel like that would keep things interesting. Either that or Black Panther so I could live in Wakanda. I’m a superhero nerd, so that might be cool.
8. What do you consider the most important event of your life so far?
Asking Christ into my heart when I was younger. No question. If my fiancee is reading this then our proposal… no question…
What do you consider the most important furniture in the house?
Easy, the couch. Naps are important.
What's the most expensive thing you've ever broken?
If we exclude every body part that required extensive rehab over the years then probably my phone. In high school I got really mad one time and threw it so hard that it broke into about a million pieces then my freshman year here I accidentally dropped a 25 pound plate on it in the weight room. You know those life-proof phone cases? Yeah, they make those for me.
Favorite TV Show
The Office. I’ve watched it through more times than you would think. I lost count but I’m pretty sure I’m in the 20s. I have an unhealthy addiction to that show. Friends is a very close second though.
What’s it like to play for Coach Douma?
Douma makes the game fun. He cares about us off the court more than anything else so that makes it really easy to play for him on the court. He gives us a lot of freedom so we are able to do what we do best and that’s a great system to be in. He also gets really into the game. Occasionally I find myself watching him jump around on the sidelines rather than what’s happening on the court. You should see his in-game vertical, it’s crazy.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of the Central men’s basketball team?
I know everyone says it but it’s true. My favorite part is the bond that we have on the team. I love all those guys. Some of my best college memories will be just hanging out with my teammates.
What do you hope to be doing 10 years from now?
In ten years I hope to be finishing up a professional basketball career and potentially moving back to America with my wife. I also hope we are parents by that point and I would like to start a Social Entrepreneurship when I get to the end of my basketball career.
Favorite food from Central Market
Gotta respect those omelets. Great way to start the day.
Bucket list
- Win two conference championships
- Go to the final four and win a national title
- Graduate
- Get married
- Sign a Pro contract and play for as long as I can
- Watch every marvel movie in order with my fiancee
- Learn how to play the guitar
- Sky dive
- Learn martial arts
- Become a father
- Start a business
