McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week: Jamal Abu-Shamala

Each week, the McNamara Academic Center for Student-Athletes (MAC) will recognize one University of Minnesota student-athlete for his or her academic achievements. The winner of the McNamara Student-Athlete of the Week for the week ending November 16th is Jamal Abu-Shamala from the men’s basketball team.

Coach Tubby Smith believes that Jamal is deserving of the recognition.

"Jamal is an extremely conscientious student-athlete. He is working very hard in the classroom and on the basketball court," Smith said. "I would like to commend and congratulate him on this award."

Abu-Shamala is a junior who is majoring in Business and Marketing Education. In addition to his commitments to basketball and to his academics, Jamal has also found time to volunteer for numerous community service events including Kids in the City, Create a Memory and the Minnesota Adoption Resource Network.

Academic Counselor Jenn Townsend is proud of Jamal for how well he represents all Gopher student-athletes in the classroom.

"We consistently receive feedback from Jamal’s professors praising him not only for his grades but also for how much of an asset he is to his classes," Townsend said. "Jamal is a great example of someone who excels in every area of his life."

Anissa Lightner, Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Welfare, is especially appreciative of Jamal’s volunteer efforts. "Jamal is an outstanding young man. He has been very instrumental in our community outreach events," Lightner commented. "He has been a great ambassador not only for the men’s basketball team, but also for the athletic department in general."