"Built by Work, Anchored in Faith"

Jake Prior

@Prior_Jake10

6'6, Class of 2026

Heritage Hills HS, IN

Committed to the University of St. Francis

For Jake Prior, this commitment is not about flash or shortcuts. It is about work stacked on top of work, belief layered over doubt, and consistency carrying him to a place that finally felt right. The University of St. Francis became more than just a school because of the people inside it. The coaching staff made it clear they believed in him, understood who he is, and saw where he could grow. That trust turned interest into comfort, and comfort into home.

Long before this commitment became official, the work was already done quietly. Every day after school meant more shots. Summers were filled with gyms instead of free time, missed moments instead of comfort, and long days chasing improvement. While others were away enjoying the break, Jake was gone too, traveling to play basketball, putting miles on his body and reps into his game. None of it came easy, but all of it mattered. Those lonely hours and tired nights shaped him long before the opportunity arrived.

There were moments when the path felt heavy. Times when doubt crept in, and the future felt uncertain. But Jake never looked for an exit. He stayed steady, kept his head down, and kept grinding. When facing adversity, he trusted the process and refused to drift away from what he knew had to be done. That mindset carried him through the tough stretches and kept him moving forward when progress felt slow.

Faith played a vital role in that steadiness. Jake leaned on God throughout the journey, finding reassurance, confidence, and peace when the road was unclear. His relationship with God grounded him, reminded him he was capable, and gave him calm in moments that could have shaken him. That faith never wavered and became a source of strength that guided every step toward this moment.

Family was the constant foundation. From the very beginning, they were there without conditions. They drove him everywhere, supported every dream, and made sacrifices so he could chase something he loved. Their belief never faded, even when the journey demanded more than expected. That support fueled him through the grind and made this commitment something they all share.

There is deep gratitude in this moment. Family comes first. Coaches past and present who invested time, energy, and belief also played a major role. Every voice that pushed him, taught him, or challenged him helped shape the player and person he is today.

This commitment means more than basketball. It stands as proof that consistent work matters. That patience matters. That staying the course matters. For Jake, it represents growth, belief, and the reward of trusting the process even when the outcome was not guaranteed.

Moving forward, the University of St. Francis is getting a competitor who brings effort every single day. A teammate who supports those around him. A player who shows up ready to work and ready to compete. Nothing is assumed. Everything is earned.

For those still waiting on their moment, Jake’s message is, "Keep working. Progress may not show up right away, but it always shows up eventually. Stay committed, stay patient, and trust that the work will speak".

Jake brings size, competitiveness, and a steady approach that fits well into a college program built on effort and accountability. His willingness to work, compete, and support teammates adds value beyond the stat sheet. He strengthens a program by being dependable, coachable, and committed to daily improvement.

As Jake continues to grow into his frame and game, his impact will expand through consistency and effort. His mindset, faith, and work ethic position him to keep earning opportunities. Expect a player who competes every day, stays grounded, and continues to build forward with purpose and belief.