Chowan University Athletics

Jeff Whitaker grew up in Battleboro, North Carolina and attended North Edgecombe High School in Leggett. He was a three sport athlete and lettered in baseball, basketball, and football. His athletic prowess garnered the attention of many college coaches but one in particular was Chowan College’s then-head basketball coach, Bob Burke. Burke recruited Whitaker to Chowan where the two helped build one of the most successful teams in the program’s history.
 
Whitaker played two seasons with the Braves. During his freshman season he was the starting point guard and helped take his team to the Sweet Sixteen of the NJCAA in Hutchinson, Kansas. His sophomore season he led the team in assists and steals and served as a team captain. Whitaker helped the then-Braves at an amazing 53-13 two year record.
 
Whitaker continued his playing career at East Carolina University (1989-1992). He earned a starting position in his junior season as a point guard for the Pirates but suffered a season ending back injury in his senior season.
 
Whitaker received his B.S. in Criminal Justice from ECU and after graduation was hired by the Pitt County Juvenile Detention Center as a youth counselor. He spent seven years in that position before accepting a full-time position with Belk as a loss prevention officer. Whitaker now serves as the Loss Prevention Manager for Belk in Raleigh, N.C., a position he has held for the last 10 years.
 
Whitaker resides in Raleigh with his wife, Kim. Together they have three children, KaNesha, Kylan, and Jaden. Whitaker serves the local community by serving as a coach for Wake County and YMCA recreational leagues.