Jordan Vargas is a basketball fanatic. In fact, his oldest brother helped name him after the legendary Michael Jordan.

“All I watched growing up was Michael Jordan on VHS tapes,” he said. “I always played basketball, but when you’re 5’9” and 140 pounds, you realize you don’t have the physical gifts to make it to the NBA.”

While attending Metea Valley High School, Vargas decided to start a podcast focusing on the NBA. He attracted NBA G League players Rodney Pryor from Georgetown and Jeremiah Hill; member of Orlando Magic Adetunji Adedipe; and Cody Demps from the Sacramento Kings. He did the podcast for about a year, building connections and getting to know the people who are living his dream.

Vargas came to College of DuPage because of the great things he heard about it.

“It’s one of the best community colleges in the area, so it was a no-brainer to enroll and explore my options,” he said. “I was able to build out my base while focusing on my education and saving money.”

After starting at COD, Vargas finished an apprenticeship with the Orlando Magic’s G League team, observing coaches and players. He then reached out to the general manager of the Windy City Bulls, a G League team associated with the Chicago Bulls, and asked about opportunities with the organization. They gave him a chance, and he worked part-time assisting the front office, coaches and players with game-day operations along with helping with practice when called.

He is now attending Texas Tech University, where he also works as an undergrad assistant for the men’s basketball team. His goal is to find himself back in an NBA organization on the basketball side.

As for COD, Vargas is glad he enrolled. Although he mainly focused on completing his gen ed requirements, he praised professors like Stephanie Vlach in the Physical Education, Fitness and Sports Studies program for their dedication and focus.

“Stephanie Vlach and (Student Success Counselor) Sue Brodie are the best out there,” he said. “They promote success even in the sports world, which can be cutthroat.”

Learn more about the Physical Education, Fitness and Sports Studies program at College of DuPage