Marion Clark and Willamette Valley Jaguars Drive Vision for Economic Renewal Through Pro Basketball and Community Empowerment
Under Marion Clark’s leadership, the Willamette Valley Jaguars are transforming local communities through basketball, economic development, and youth empowerment.
United States, 5th Apr 2025 – The Willamette Valley Jaguars, a professional basketball team competing in The Basketball League (TBL), are marking a significant turning point for the region of Albany, Oregon, both on and off the court. Under the ownership of Marion Clark, the youngest professional basketball team owner in the United States and the youngest Black team owner in the nation, the Jaguars are becoming a powerful force for social and economic renewal. Clark’s vision goes far beyond the game itself; it encompasses the creation of jobs, economic development, and community upliftment, all through the unifying power of sports.
The Jaguars are part of the TBL, a league positioned just beneath the NBA G-League, offering an invaluable platform for athlete development. But for Clark, the mission of the Jaguars is clear: to use basketball as a tool for broader social and economic change in the Mid-Willamette Valley region. The team is committed to building a strong, sustainable foundation for the future of the community while providing top-tier entertainment for fans of all backgrounds.
Transforming Albany: A Vision for a New Stadium and Mall
Clark’s ultimate goal is to build a state-of-the-art stadium and a downtown outlet mall in Albany, Oregon. These developments would serve as a permanent home for the Willamette Valley Jaguars, while also transforming the local area into a bustling hub for tourism, business, and entertainment. “My dream isn’t just about basketball—it’s about changing lives and creating lasting opportunities,” says Marion Clark, Owner of the Willamette Valley Jaguars and Executive Director of Jaguars For Change. “We’re using the game as a bridge to bring communities together, create jobs, and inspire the next generation to dream big.”
The proposed stadium and outlet mall are poised to become vital pillars of economic growth in the region, bringing new jobs, generating tourism, and providing a permanent venue for the Jaguars. The project is in the early stages, with Clark and his team currently working closely with regional stakeholders, city officials, and private sector partners to bring this vision to life.
Jaguars For Change: Empowering Communities Through Youth and Civic Engagement
A key component of the Jaguars’ mission is their nonprofit arm, Jaguars For Change. The organization is deeply committed to engaging with and supporting local communities through mentorship, civic initiatives, and providing affordable, family-friendly entertainment. The focus on youth empowerment is a central tenet of the team’s philosophy, with Clark and the Jaguars organization working tirelessly to ensure young people in the region have the tools and opportunities to succeed.
Through Jaguars For Change, Clark and his team provide mentorship to local youth, offering guidance and inspiration that transcends the basketball court. The Jaguars are not just a sports franchise—they are a critical part of the region’s efforts to drive positive change. The organization’s outreach programs, which include local events, mentorship opportunities, and educational resources, are designed to create long-term impact and foster a strong sense of community pride.
Marion Clark: A Story of Leadership and Determination
As a Black entrepreneur who has quickly ascended through the sports business world, Marion Clark’s story is one of resilience, vision, and determination. Growing up in Compton, California, and spending much of his youth in Moreno Valley, California, Clark’s success is a testament to his unwavering commitment to both his personal goals and his desire to give back to others. His journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the youngest team owners in professional sports is a powerful reminder of what is possible when passion, perseverance, and community are at the heart of a mission.
For Clark, the Jaguars represent more than just a basketball team—they are a vehicle for positive change. His leadership is defined not only by his business acumen but by his dedication to community empowerment and social responsibility.
A Growing Impact: The Jaguars’ Role in Regional Economic Development
As the Jaguars prepare for their upcoming season, the team’s visibility and impact continue to grow. Clark’s vision for the team and the broader community is gaining traction, as fans, sponsors, and local partners rally behind the idea of a sustainable, community-driven sports franchise. With the ongoing support of the region, the Jaguars are well-positioned to be a cornerstone of Albany’s future, both in terms of basketball and economic development.
“We’re not just trying to win games,” Clark says. “We’re trying to win hearts. And by building something lasting in the Willamette Valley, we’re showing what’s possible when sports are used as a tool for positive change.”
This focus on community involvement and local engagement is key to the Jaguars’ success. As Clark’s vision unfolds, there is an increasing interest from media, businesses, and potential investors who see the broader social and economic value in supporting the team and its goals.
For More Information, Contact:
Marion Clark
Owner, Willamette Valley Jaguars
Phone: 541-209-0902
Email: communications@wvjags.com
Social Media:
Willamette Valley Jaguars Instagram
Willamette Valley Jaguars Website
Willamette Valley Jaguars Facebook
Marion Clark Feature – LA Weekly
About Willamette Valley Jaguars
The Willamette Valley Jaguars are a professional basketball team competing in The Basketball League (TBL), a league that serves as a critical development platform for athletes while positively impacting local communities. The team is dedicated to providing high-quality entertainment and fostering economic, social, and cultural growth in the Mid-Willamette Valley region of Oregon.
Media Contact
Organization: Willamette Valley Jaguars
Contact Person: Marion Clark
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Wvjags
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +15412090902
Country: United States
Release Id: 05042526032