Marion Clark stands as a pioneering figure in professional basketball ownership and community development, serving as the Owner of the Willamette Valley Jaguars and Executive Director of Jaguars For Change. As the youngest professional basketball team owner in the United States and the youngest Black owner in the country, Clark’s leadership transcends sports, advancing economic growth and social impact in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley.
The Willamette Valley Jaguars compete in The Basketball League (TBL), a national professional basketball organization positioned just below the NBA G-League. Clark’s ownership marks a new chapter for the region’s sports landscape, bringing affordable, family-oriented professional basketball and entertainment to local communities. Under his direction, the Jaguars embody more than athletic competition—they serve as a vehicle for unity, opportunity, and positive transformation.
Clark’s vision extends beyond the court. Central to his long-term plan is the development of a new stadium in Albany, Oregon, designed to become a cornerstone for community engagement and economic revitalization. Complementing this initiative is the proposed creation of a downtown outlet mall, envisioned as an economic hub fostering local business growth and employment opportunities. Through these projects, Clark aims to create lasting infrastructure that supports both sports and regional prosperity.
In addition to business development, Clark emphasizes deep-rooted community involvement. Jaguars For Change, the nonprofit arm associated with the team, focuses on mentoring youth, supporting local events, and strengthening community bonds. Clark’s commitment reflects his personal background, having grown up in Compton, California, and dedicated his career to uplifting communities through meaningful action and opportunity creation.
“The Jaguars are more than just a team; we are a part of the heart and soul of Willamette Valley,” Clark explained. “Our mission goes beyond winning games—it’s about fostering mutual respect, nurturing talent, and contributing to the community’s growth and wellbeing.”
The Basketball League itself plays a crucial role in this vision, providing athletes with professional opportunities to develop their skills, compete at a high level, and pursue careers in basketball. The league’s structure supports economic and social mobility by creating local sports entertainment that resonates with communities outside the major metropolitan centers.
Clark’s leadership and innovative approach position the Willamette Valley Jaguars as a model for sports organizations seeking to integrate business success with community impact. His unique status as a young Black owner also brings increased visibility to diversity and representation within professional sports ownership.
As Clark seeks to expand partnerships and attract sponsors, his growing profile aims to bring established brands and investors on board to support the Jaguars’ ambitious projects. The potential stadium and outlet mall are envisioned to not only serve sports fans but also to catalyze regional economic development and community pride.
By harnessing the unifying power of sports, Marion Clark and the Willamette Valley Jaguars illustrate how athletic organizations can drive positive change beyond the arena. Their story underscores the potential for professional basketball to be a platform for economic revitalization, youth mentorship, and lasting community transformation in the Mid-Willamette Valley and beyond.
For more information about the Willamette Valley Jaguars, visit their official website or follow them on Instagram and Facebook. Additional insights into Marion Clark’s journey and impact are available through LA Weekly’s feature article.