Core Values
Faith First: We place God at the center of everything we do, knowing our strength and purpose come from Him. Our commitment to Christ guides our actions and relationships.
Basketball Fundamentals: We focus on mastering the basics—ball handling, shooting, defense, and teamwork—believing that solid fundamentals are key to success on the court.
Integrity: We are committed to honesty and doing the right thing, whether others are watching or not. We uphold high standards in both basketball and life.
Teamwork: Basketball is a team sport, and we emphasize unity, selflessness, and mutual support. We work together for a common goal, celebrating each other’s successes.
Discipline: We strive for excellence in both our skills and our faith. We are disciplined in practice, focused on growth, and committed to improvement.
Servant Leadership: Like Jesus, we lead by example, putting the needs of others first. Leadership is about humility, sacrifice, and helping others succeed.
Hard Work & Perseverance: We give our best effort on and off the court, overcoming challenges with perseverance. We face life’s difficulties with faith and resilience.
Respect for Others: We show respect for coaches, teammates, and opponents, demonstrating sportsmanship, humility in victory, and grace in defeat.
About The Cru
Early Life: Jacob Holmen was raised in East Texas, attending Lindale and Whitehouse High School, where he helped his team achieve a 57-5 record. He earned a scholarship to the University of North Texas. As a senior, he averaged 20 points and 11.5 rebounds per game and earned All-East Texas MVP honors. He also excelled in football and track.
Meet Our Founder
Jacob Holmen
College Career
Holmen married his high school sweetheart in 2017. They have four sons and are active in their church, where Jacob volunteers in the youth ministry.
Professional Career
Holmen signed with the Goldfields Giants in Australia for the 2015 SBL season, leading them to the playoffs. He averaged 24.3 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. He re-signed for the 2016 and 2017 seasons, earning MVP honors in 2017. Holmen later played for the Perry Lakes Hawks in 2018, helping them win the SBL championship despite a knee injury that cut his season short.
Personal Life
Holmen married his high school sweetheart in 2017. They have four sons and are active in their church, where Jacob volunteers in the youth ministry.
Organization information
North Texas Crusaders is a Christ-centered basketball organization dedicated to advancing the kingdom of heaven on Earth. Our mission is to teach biblical principles through the game of basketball while fostering an environment of growth and development. We focus on building strong fundamentals, promoting sportsmanship, and instilling life skills both on and off the court. Through mentorship and teamwork, we aim to inspire players to excel in all areas of life. Founded in 2024, our organization seeks to equip young athletes with the tools to succeed spiritually, academically, and athletically.
Name
Position
"My son has been playing in the Crusaders team for almost a year now and it has been a great experience. I cannot say enough about Coach Holmen! He is an excellent coach, motivating and encouraging athletes to reach their highest potential as athletes and individuals. His workouts are fast paced and engaging and teach the kids all kinds of ball handling and shooting skills. Coach Holmen fosters an environment of excellence, dedication and great team camaraderie. Let's go Cru!"
Name
Position
"We cannot recommend the Cru and Coach Holmen enough! Not only does Holmen teach exceptional basketball skills, he teaches life lessons that our children will carry with them for life. It has been fun to watch our boys grow athletically and spiritually from this Cru team. We highly recommend Cru if you are seeking a truly outstanding team and coach!"
Name
Position
"Coach Holmen is the kind of leader every parent hopes their child will have in sports and in life. He consistently sets the bar high for our 4th grade Crusaders basketball team, expecting the best from each player while instilling trust, loyalty and a deep love for God. His approach goes beyond just teaching the game - he is shaping young men of character, discipline and perseverance."
Name
Position
"Being part of a Coach Holmen team is not for the faint of heart. He runs a serious program that demands passion, commitment and a willingness to push beyond limits. But in return, his players gain more than just basketball skills - they develop a mindset of excellence and a brotherhood built on faith. Under his guidance, our boys are growing into confident athletes and young men who understand the value of hard work, teamwork and integrity."
Name
Position
We are incredibly grateful for Coach Holmen's dedication and we couldn't ask for a better mentor for our kids!"