Jace Dunn Adds Football at Pace Academy While Continuing His Basketball Rise

For Jace Dunn, taking on football wasn't about changing directions. It was about adding another competitive outlet.

After picking up basketball only a few years ago, Dunn has quickly attracted Division I scholarship offers as his game continues to develop. This fall, the Pace Academy rising sophomore will also join the football program, giving him an opportunity to compete in two varsity sports.

Dunn is expected to play multiple positions for the Knights. He'll primarily line up at edge rusher and wide receiver, while also seeing snaps as a hybrid linebacker and safety. The coaching staff believes his combination of size, speed, and versatility gives them flexibility on both sides of the ball.

The decision came after conversations with his father, who played football, and Pace Academy's coaching staff. Both believed the sport could complement his athletic development without taking away from his long-term basketball goals.

"I've always loved competing, and football gives me another opportunity to challenge myself in a different way while continuing to chase my goals in basketball," Dunn said.

His basketball coach would rather have him in the gym, Dunn admitted, but also understands the opportunity. While basketball remains the priority, there is confidence that competing in another varsity sport can provide valuable experience before the season tips off.

Dunn's first weeks of football practice have only reinforced that belief.

"The transition has been really smooth," he said. "I'm learning something new every day, and I feel like I'm picking things up quickly because I'm willing to listen, work hard, I'm a fast learner, and I'm willing to be coached."

Although football is new, Dunn isn't approaching it as a short-term experiment. His focus is on helping Pace Academy compete for a state championship while continuing to improve each week. If the season opens additional recruiting opportunities, he welcomes that possibility, but it isn't the reason he put on the pads.

"I've learned that real growth usually happens when you're willing to be uncomfortable," Dunn said. "I don't want to look back years from now wondering, 'What if?' I want to know I gave everything I had and became the best version of myself."

That mindset has defined much of Dunn's athletic career so far. In a relatively short time, he has developed into a college prospect in basketball. Now he'll test himself in a second varsity sport, one built on physicality, discipline, and preparation.

Whether he's on the hardwood or the football field, Dunn hopes his reputation is built on something that doesn't show up in a box score.

"I want to be known as someone who makes the people around me better."