The future looks bright for White Bear Lake HS junior guard Jack Janicki
MAHTOMEDI, Minn. — Jack is a junior (Class of 2023) at White Bear Lake High School. Throughout the school year, he plays for White Bear High School’s varsity basketball team and has been since his freshman year. In the high school off-season, Jack plays for D1 Minnesota.
For as long as he can remember, Jack has played basketball. With a family who calls themselves the ‘Janicki Starting Five,’ a mom who played D1 basketball for Notre Dame, and an overall athletic, competitive family, it seemed almost inevitable Jack would play the sport.
Since making varsity, Jack has led the team in points, assists, and rebounds, earning himself All-Conference titles in both his freshman and sophomore seasons. This season, he is currently averaging 28 points per game.
Jack is grateful for the friendships the game has helped create. His favorite basketball memories stem from spending time with teammates at out-of-town tournaments and after Friday games. He believes “the people are what the sport’s all about.”
He’s especially thankful for his family’s influence, both on and off the court. After his games, Jack’s mom often has knowledgeable feedback to help him improve his game. Jack dubs his dad his personal rebounder and chauffeur.
“Nothing would be possible without [my parents], not to mention my two older sisters who beat up on me [and challenged me] when I was younger,” Jack said.
According to his parents, Stacy and Kevin, Jack is a dedicated player and spends a lot of time working on his game, always looking to grow his game. As a teammate, he’s unselfish and wants everyone around him to be their best.
“What impresses people most about Jack are his work ethic and confidence on the court. Off the court, he’s personable and funny,” Stacy and Kevin said.
Outside of basketball, Jack is a committed student. He also describes himself as a talented ping pong player, at least in relation to his friends. He loves to golf, watch movies, listen to Drake, spend time with friends, and watch sports (primarily football and basketball).
Through basketball, Jack hopes to receive a top-tier education and play for a respected basketball program. He currently has offers from Wake Forest, Loyola Chicago, and Colorado State.
The sport has taught Jack a lot and pushed him in a variety of ways.
“I’ve learned so much [from basketball] in terms of taking risks, stepping outside my comfort zone, and working extremely hard to get where I am today,” Jack said.
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