Marcus Jackson brings on Corey Deans to staff

Marcus Jackson is wasting no time putting together his staff as the new boy's basketball coach at Ruston High.

It starts with former Arcadia boy's basketball coach Corey Deans, who was let go from the school in late April after leading the Gators since 2019. Deans' final season at Captain Shreve ended at 28-6 overall with a loss in the Division I select quarterfinals on a buzzer-beating three-pointer to Southwood. The Gators won the District 1-5A title in his final year, with Deans putting up over 120 career wins.

Jackson shared the news of the hire Wednesday at a meet/greet event at Ruston High School.

“As of right now, I’ve hired Corey Deans who was at Captain Shreve," Jackson said. "We’re still looking for a couple spots to help me get this group over the top. Like I said, even though I’ve got experience, I’m trying to bring in guys - Corey’s got a 5A resume that can help me on this level. He knows the coaches and some of the things they’ve been doing.”

As for his overall message to parents, fans, and players, Jackson said he wanted his passion for the game to come through.

“I wanted to let them know I love coaching kids," Jackson said. "I’m passionate about coaching kids. And I think that when we all have the same agenda and are in the same accord - parents, administrators, coaches and everyone - everybody has success. I just wanted to let the community know I fight for my kids. I love my kids. And I want them to succeed at the end of the day, not just in basketball.”