Jacob Powell joined the Ave Maria University men’s basketball coaching staff in June 2024, bringing over a decade of coaching experience at the collegiate, professional, and grassroots levels. Known for his expertise in player development, scouting, and game strategy, Powell has played a key role in championship-winning programs at multiple levels.
Before arriving at Ave Maria, Powell served as the Assistant Coach and Head of Player Development for the KIT SC College Wizards in the German Bundesliga, where he was instrumental in optimizing player performance, designing skill development programs, and fostering a championship-caliber culture. During his time with KIT, the team captured a Regionaliga championship, showcasing his ability to develop winning teams at the professional level.
Since joining Ave Maria, Powell has helped guide the Gyrenes to a Sun Conference Championship in his first season, reinforcing his impact on player development and game preparation.
In addition to his collegiate and professional experience, Powell was the Director of Basketball Recruiting at the University of Maine at Fort Kent, overseeing talent identification and recruitment for the program. He has also been an influential figure in grassroots basketball as the Co-Director of MaxHoops Elite Basketball Schools and Showcases, a premier development program in the Pacific Northwest.
Powell has spent over 10 years coaching with NBC Basketball Camps, one of the most respected basketball training organizations in the country. Now serving as a Camp Director, he plays a crucial role in leading camps, developing coaching staff, and ensuring a high-level experience for young athletes.
Powell holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Eastern Oregon University and a Bachelor’s in Business Management from the University of Maine at Fort Kent. His diverse coaching background, combined with his championship pedigree, makes him a valuable asset to the Gyrenes basketball program.
Before transitioning into coaching, Powell had a successful playing career at both the collegiate and professional levels.
He began his collegiate career at Portland Community College in 2017, where he helped lead the team to a Southern Region Championship and a Final Four appearance in the NWAC tournament.
From 2018 to 2020, Powell played at the University of Maine at Fort Kent, earning 1st Team All-Conference honors and winning the National 3-Point Contest. During his time at UMFK, he averaged 14 points and 3 steals per game, leading the league in made 3PT and steals per game.
Following his college career, Powell played overseas, competing in the Greece Elite League in 2022 before signing with SSC Karlsruhe in Germany from 2022-2024. While with Karlsruhe, he was the league’s top scorer with the most made 3PT and helped the team win an Oberliga Championship and qualify for the Regionaliga.
His experience as a player and champion at multiple levels has been instrumental in his ability to develop and mentor the next generation of athletes.
