Labette Cardinals, a men’s basketball team based in Parsons, Kansas, recently made a significant addition to their coaching staff by hiring Jermaine Maybank as the newest assistant coach. Maybank, who played for the Kansas State Wildcats in the 2006-07 season, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Cardinals‘ program. His hiring was announced by Labette head coach Jason Hinson, who expressed excitement about the impact Maybank will have on the team.
Hinson spoke highly of Maybank, highlighting his previous interviews for the job and the instant credibility he brings to the program. Maybank’s background includes playing under Hall of Fame coaches and competing at high levels overseas. His experience will undoubtedly benefit the players on the team, as they will look up to him as someone who has been through it all.
Maybank’s basketball journey began in Kansas, where he spent three out of his four collegiate years. He started at Independence Community College before transferring to St. John’s and eventually landing at Kansas State. Reflecting on his time in Kansas, Maybank expressed his love for the state and the conference, stating that it feels like home to him.
During his time at Kansas State, Maybank played under the legendary Bob Huggins, who is credited with revitalizing the Wildcats‘ basketball program during his one-year tenure. Maybank was a key player on the team, starting three games and achieving a career-high of 26 points in a game against the Kansas Jayhawks at Allen Fieldhouse. He fondly remembers the impact that Huggins had on the program and how they shifted the culture of K-State basketball.
After graduating from Kansas State, Maybank pursued a professional basketball career overseas, playing in countries like Brazil and Australia. He eventually settled in Australia, where his son currently resides. Now, Maybank is excited to join Hinson’s staff at Labette and contribute to the team’s success.
Labette Cardinals had a challenging season in 2023-24, finishing with a 10-21 record. However, Maybank is optimistic about the team’s potential and believes he can help provide a spark to reignite their success. With his experience playing in the Jayhawk Conference and beyond, Maybank aims to guide the players towards achieving their goals and making a positive impact on the program.
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, both Maybank and Hinson are focused on representing the Parsons and Labette Community College communities with pride. Maybank emphasized taking things one practice at a time and working towards the common goal of success. Hinson is confident in the team’s abilities and has set high expectations for the upcoming season, aiming to win the conference title and compete at a high level.
In addition to Maybank’s arrival, Labette will also feature an entirely new roster this winter. Hinson believes that the new lineup, combined with Maybank’s expertise, will help the team replicate the success they had a few years ago. The Cardinals are gearing up for an exciting and competitive season, with a strong focus on growth, improvement, and ultimately, winning.