by Mike Sharkey
Staff Writer
Judging by the press conference, basketball may play second fiddle to fan involvement and entertainment when pro basketball makes its return to Jacksonville.
Tuesday, the Jacksonville Jam officially announced its entry into the American Basketball Association. Starting Nov. 10, the Jam will play all 18 of its home games at the University of North Florida’s 5,800-seat arena. Taking a page from minor league baseball where the games are often overshadowed by fireworks, cheap beer and inexpensive family outings, co-owners Felix and Anne Krupczynski are promising quality basketball with plenty of fan interaction.
“The games will be fun, affordable, family entertainment,” said team president Anne Krupczynski, adding the ABA is back with a twist.
The team will be in a Southeast division that includes Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Atlanta, Palm Beach and Columbia, S.C. The league currently has 58 teams with plans to expand. Longtime basketball fans will also be treated to a bit nostalgia when the team starts launching the old ABA red, white and blue basketballs.
In addition to the basketball, game days will be filled with fan contests, giveaways and plenty of entertainment during timeouts and between quarters and halves. The Jam will also invoke the ABA’s 11th man rule in which a fan will be allowed to dress for home games, warm up with the team, sit on the bench and perhaps even play.
“We want fans to arrive early and stay late,” said Felix Krupczynski, who will also serve as the Jam’s general manager.
The team will be coached by Steve Tucker, a 25-year coach will an all-time record of 495-267, who will also serve as the team’s director of basketball operations. Tucker’s resume includes stints in several pro leagues and at several college levels.
Tucker is holding open tryouts at UNF July 8 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.