- Years with club: 2015–2016
- Position: Attacking Midfielder / Winger / Forward
- Nationality: American
- Acquisition: Signed December 11, 2014
J.C. Banks joined Minnesota United FC during its time in the North American Soccer League (NASL), signing ahead of the 2015 season. A versatile attacker from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Banks was valued for his technical ability, speed, and ability to play across the attacking line, either as a winger, an attacking midfielder, or occasionally as a forward. He spent two seasons with the Loons, contributing to a competitive side that narrowly missed out on a championship appearance.
Key stats with Minnesota United (NASL):
- Total NASL regular season appearances: 43
- Goals: 4
- Assists: 3
- US Open Cup appearances: 3
- Total club goals (all competitions): 5
- Debut goal: Scored his first league goal for the club on June 6, 2015, in a 1-1 draw against the Carolina RailHawks.
Memorable moments:
- Attacking depth: He was a reliable attacking option off the bench, particularly during the 2015 season, where he put up solid numbers in limited minutes.
- Soccer lineage: His father, Jimmy Banks, was a Wisconsin soccer legend who played for the United States men’s national team at the 1990 FIFA World Cup.
- Indoor soccer ties: Before and during his outdoor career, Banks also played professionally for the Milwaukee Wave in the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL).
Where is he now?:
- Banks retired from playing professional outdoor soccer on February 5, 2021, with his last professional club being Forward Madison FC (USL League One).
- Since retiring, he has transitioned into coaching and technical roles.
- He currently serves as the assistant men’s soccer coach for Northern Kentucky University (NCAA Division I).
- Banks holds a USSF C License and has also worked as a General Manager for One Touch Soccer Nashville and as a Director of Coaching for Heroes FA.