Skip to main content
You are the owner of this article.
You have permission to edit this article.
Edit

Ennis Rakestraw's arrival at Missouri comes courtesy of a mother's love

  • 8 min to read
Duncanville cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, Jr., places a Missouri cap (copy)

Former Duncanville cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., places a Missouri cap on his head, revealing he will play for the Tigers, during National Signing Day in Duncanville, Texas.

Shamika Jones’ son was the greatest present she had ever received. He was also her first major challenge.

Three days before she turned 16, Jones gave birth to Ennis Rakestraw Jr. He arrived early, born weighing less than six pounds. Doctors warned Jones about potential learning issues and breathing difficulties from underdeveloped lungs. He spent nine days in the ICU with pneumonia.

Duncanville cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, Jr., begins to cry (copy)

Former Duncanville cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. begins to cry as he speaks about his family and why he chose Missouri over other schools during National Signing Day in Duncanville, Texas. Rakestraw chose the Tigers over Power 5 schools like Alabama and Texas, saying that something felt right about Missouri.

Duncanville cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, Jr., center, is congratulated by friends (copy)

Former Duncanville cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, Jr., center, is congratulated by friends and family including Chris Thompson, Sr., left, after signing his letter of intent to play for Missouri during National Signing Day in Duncanville, Texas. Rakestraw’s small stature meant he didn’t jump onto most schools radars until after his senior season.

Ennis Rakestraw, Jr. with his mother, Shamika Jones.

Ennis Rakestraw, Jr. with his mother, Shamika Jones. Rakestraw’s relationship with his mother is one of the driving factors of his success.

  • Sports reporter, spring 2020 studying sports journalism reach me at msb8cz@mail.missouri.edu or in the newsroom at 882-5700