The Hawthorne Hurricane is more than just a basketball team; it is a catalyst for community and economic transformation. Founded by Hawthorne native and military veteran Jasmine Lanez McLaurin, the Hurricane was built on the core values of unyielding discipline, strategic execution, and hometown pride.
Drawing from nearly a decade of experience in the insurance and finance industry, alongside a robust background in military logistics and communication, McLaurin saw an opportunity to bring high-level entertainment and real economic value back to her roots.
More Than A Game
The Hurricane organization is entirely focused on revitalizing the Hawthorne area, driving local economic growth, and championing hometown pride. Our mission is to empower athletes, creating a community cornerstone that brings people together while establishing our hometown as a premier destination for sports and family entertainment.
When you watch the Hawthorne Hurricane, you aren't just watching elite ABA basketball. You are witnessing the spark of a movement, spearheaded by a leader who knows what it takes to execute a mission and win. Welcome to the eye of the storm.
Professional Resume
Jasmine Lanez McLaurin
"A true native of Hawthorne. I've been here since I came home from Alachua General Hospital."
Hawthorne Hurricane (ABA)
Owner & General Manager
Directing the storm and bringing professional basketball to Hawthorne, FL.
Leveraging over nine years of experience in the insurance and finance industry to drive results. Providing critical guidance for those in need of low-income assistance and expert Medicare advice.
New Echelon Society
Founder • Est. 2020
Founded right at the onset of COVID-19. Dedicated to serving the community through organized events and support initiatives during unprecedented times.
United States Army
92A Automated Logistical Specialist
Mastered military logistics, high-level supply chain management, and strategic execution under pressure.
Retail, Tech & Operations
L&J Investments, Best Buy, TeleTech, EZ Corp
Built a versatile foundation leading up to the pandemic, developing skills in technical support, retail sales operations, pawnbrokering, and investment holdings.
The Fast Food Roots
McDonald's • Career Start 2003
Where the hustle began. Learned the true meaning of hard work, high-volume operations, and fast-paced customer service. Proud of the foundation!
Education & Credentials
Professional Licenses
4-40 Property & Casualty | 2-20 Health | Medicare
Nova Southeastern University
Entrepreneurship
University of South Florida (USF)
Marketing
Florida Southern College
Communications
US Quartermaster School
Military Logistics & Supply
P.K. Yonge DRS
Education
Interlachen High School
Education
Chester Shell Elementary
Education
Pumpkin Patch
Early Education
Professional Resume
Macauley A. Johnson
"As a decorated veteran, I offer leadership, time management, dependability, and adaptability to the Hawthorne Hurricane sideline."
Basketball Career
Florida State University
Scout Basketball Team
Gained elite, collegiate-level basketball experience and strategic game preparation insights.
All-Marine Okinawa
Basketball Team
Competed at a high level while serving internationally, demonstrating extreme physical conditioning and teamwork.
Military Service
United States Marine Corps
Military Police Officer • Combat Leadership
Decorated Veteran tested in intense combat engagements.
Spearheaded combat readiness and ensured total Marine effectiveness in high-pressure scenarios.
Mentored incoming Marines and served as a strategic advisor to foreign military personnel.
Tactical Readiness & Instruction
Expert Marksman & Combat Instructor
Foreign Combat Instructor and Advisor, optimizing allied force effectiveness.
Combat Tracker Instructor.
Crime Scene Analyst and Forensic Expert.
Education & Skills
Florida State University
Education
Hawthorne High School
Education • Hawthorne Native
Additional Career Skills
Licensed Master Barber
Exceptional resourcefulness, prioritization, and written/verbal communication. Adept at maintaining professionalism under extreme pressure.
Professional Resume
Janez Wade
"Born and raised in Alachua County. A Hawthorne native cut from the same cloth as our founder, and groomed in medicine since she was 'knee-high to a grasshopper' by her mother, a Doctor of Nursing Practice."
Medical & Sports Care Experience
Hawthorne Hurricane (ABA)
Sports Medicine Nurse
Overseeing player health, safety, and peak performance, utilizing specialized medical knowledge alongside an understanding of the physical demands of athletes.
Extensive Clinical Care
Advent Hospital, Tampa General & Palm Gardens Nursing Home
Eight years of hands-on experience in healthcare, providing care to all age patients. Experienced in Geriatric Care, Critical Care, Cardiac Care, Long-term Care, Acute Care, Neurology Med Surg, Emergency Department, ICU, Rehabilitation, and Pediatrics.
Emergency Response & Patient Handling
Critical Care Protocols
Skilled in the ability to implement and manage nursing care solutions, and respond quickly/efficiently to critical and emergency situations.
Wound care experience and proper patient handling skills.
Knowledge of drug brands and generics, with strict adherence to HIPPA/EMTALA guidelines.
Familiar with known electronic systems including EPIC, Cerner, NextGen, and PointClickCare.
Education & Credentials
Withlacoochee College
Graduated with Honors
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Detail-oriented, experienced LPN with strong written and verbal communication skills.
Hawthorne High School
Education • Alachua County Native
Lifelong Medical Pedigree
Mentorship
Groomed and trained directly by a highly experienced Doctor of Nursing Practice.
Professional Resume
Sam Walker, III
"Grounded in this community, developing talent from the grassroots level to the pros. It starts with building men of character and execution."
Coaching & Leadership
Hawthorne Hurricane (ABA)
Assistant Head Coach
Serving as a vital strategic asset on the professional sidelines, bringing intense local energy, discipline, and tactical execution to the men's minor league level.
Hawthorne Youth Sports
Head Coach & Community Leader
Serving as a cornerstone of the Hawthorne athletic community.
Mentoring athletes and teaching the fundamentals of teamwork, dedication, and resilience.
Bridging the gap between the next generation of local talent and the professional standard required at the ABA level.
Community Roots
Grounded in Hawthorne
Local Advocate
Deeply entrenched in local sports programs, Walker is recognized throughout Alachua County as a reliable, steadfast mentor dedicated to uplifting his community and championing hometown pride.
PROUD MEMBER OF THE ABA
Pro Men's League| Ages 18-44
Hawthorne, FLCalling All Surrounding Areas
WE ARE HAWTHORNE
Join the storm. The official home of the Hawthorne Hurricane professional men's basketball team. Fast breaks, high flying action, and pure dedication.
Legacy Healthcare Center Walk In Primary Care in Gainesville FLCommunity SponsorHawthorne RegionalLegacy Healthcare Center Walk In Primary Care in Gainesville FLCommunity SponsorHawthorne Regional
The Newest Addition
Welcome to Hawthorne
The Hawthorne Hurricane is proud to be the newest men's professional basketball franchise in the American Basketball Association (ABA). Rooted right here in Hawthorne, Florida, we are bringing high-octane, fast-paced ABA basketball to our community.
We are more than just a team on the court. We are a community-driven organization dedicated to athletic excellence, local economic empowerment, and providing unforgettable entertainment.
Meet the visionaries directing the storm. The Hawthorne Hurricane leadership team brings a wealth of experience, discipline, and passion to the American Basketball Association.
Jasmine Lanez McLaurin
General Manager
A Hawthorne native and military veteran, McLaurin brings a formidable background in military logistics, communication, and almost a decade of finance and insurance expertise.
View Full Resume
Macauley Johnson
Head Coach
A military veteran and dedicated member of the community, Johnson brings discipline, strategic leadership, and a deep passion for the game to the Hawthorne Hurricane sideline.
View Full Resume
Sam Walker, III
Assistant Head Coach
Deeply grounded in the community, Walker serves as the respected Head Coach of Hawthorne Youth Sports. He brings unmatched local knowledge and bridges the gap to the pros.
View Full Resume
Janez Wade
Sports Medicine Nurse
A former athlete, licensed medical nurse, and Hawthorne native, Wade understands the physical demands of the game and provides expert medical care to the team.
View Full Resume
Beyond the Court
Community Outreach
Medicare & Assistance
Our commitment goes beyond entertainment. Hurricane Founder & General Manager Jasmine Lanez McLaurin leverages her extensive background to provide direct guidance to those in need. If you need expert Medicare advice or low-income assistance, we are here to point you in the right direction.
Through our proud partnership with Legacy Healthcare Center Walk In Primary Care Clinic in Gainesville, FL, we are committed to ensuring our community has access to top-tier health services. Alongside our Sports Medicine Nurse, Janez Wade, we advocate for comprehensive wellness both on and off the court.
Corporate Sponsorships
Anchor Your Brand
Align your business with Alachua County's premier sports entertainment franchise. The Hawthorne Hurricane offers scalable, high-visibility partnership packages designed to drive local engagement and brand loyalty.
Eye of the Storm
Title Sponsorship
Our most exclusive package offering maximum visibility on the court, on the jersey, and in the community.
Official Jersey Patch (Front/Chest)
Center Court Logo Placement
"Storm Chaser" Newsletter Presenting Rights
Naming Rights for Community Outreach Events
4 VIP Courtside Season Passes
Category 5 Partner
Corporate Sponsorship
A high-impact corporate package designed for aggressive in-arena and digital brand exposure.
Baseline/Sideline A-Frame Signage
Sponsored Halftime Show or Timeout
Heavy Social Media Spotlight Rotation
Custom PA Announcements Every Home Game
Premium Lower Bowl Ticket Package
Hometown Hero
Local Business Partner
An accessible entry point for local Gainesville and Hawthorne businesses to connect directly with the fanbase.
Logo on Website "Supported By" Marquee
Concourse Tabling Space During Games
Recognition in Gameday Programs
1 PA Announcement Per Home Game
General Admission Ticket Package
Ready to Partner?
Contact General Manager Jasmine Lanez McLaurin to request our official sponsorship deck and secure your brand's placement for the inaugural season.
We take care of our athletes so they can take care of business on the court. The Hawthorne Hurricane offers a premium professional experience unmatched in the ABA.
Season-Long Housing
Focus on your game, not your rent. Fully covered, comfortable housing is provided for all rostered players for the duration of the season.
Guaranteed Payment
Your time and talent are valuable. We offer competitive, reliable paid contracts to ensure our athletes are properly compensated.
Team Transportation
Travel like pros. All team travel, ground logistics, and transportation to and from games and practices are completely covered.
Ready to Prove Yourself?
Registration Fee: $75.00 (Non-Refundable). Walk-ins are subject to availability and an increased fee.
