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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jason Gardner Named North Central Head Mens’ Basketball Coach
Former Indiana Mr. Basketball and College Star Focused on Culture of Positivity
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (August 13, 2020) – Jason Gardner has been named the head basketball coach at North Central High School as approved by the Board of Education at their August 12 meeting. Gardner graduated from North Central in 1999 as a state champion and was named Indiana’s Mr. Basketball that year. He went on to the University of Arizona. In 2001, he led the Wildcats to the national championship game which they lost to Duke University. Gardner was a second team All-American in 2003 and had his number retired in 2005.
“We are delighted to have Jason take the helm of our basketball program,” says Andy Elkins, North Central High School Athletic Director. “In addition to bringing a winning mindset to the program, Coach Gardner takes great pride in building a culture of positivity, productivity and pride in being the very best. He will bring a passion to any program, not only for the game, but for the idea of unity and togetherness. It is of the utmost importance that players value their education, teammates, teachers, mentors, their high school and community as a whole.”
The former Panther and college star was an assistant coach at Loyola University of Chicago and Memphis before leading the Jaguars of IUPUI for five seasons.
“North Central is a very special place to me, and I’m delighted to return as head men’s basketball coach,” says Jason Gardner. “While I made a mistake last year in my personal life, I’ve learned from it. My focus now is on helping today’s student athletes achieve their potential and gain the many benefits of being on a team. I want to thank the search committee, the Board of Education as well as Dr. Woodson, Mr. Branigan and Mr. Elkins for this opportunity which is a dream come true.”
The Metropolitan School District of Washington Township (MSDWT) is located in the northern section of Indianapolis, Indiana and Marion County. It is a dynamic community with broad diversity in cultures, religions, ethnic groups, races, and socioeconomic levels. The district has been an educational leader in Indiana for the last 60 years and offers a comprehensive educational curriculum with special activities and programs geared to provide enrichment, exploration, and instructional support for students. It also provides excellent opportunities for students to participate in outstanding performing arts, fine arts, academic teams, publications, athletics, and other student activities.
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