G.G. Jackson Impresses In 23-Point Summer League Performance

Prior to the NBA Draft, G.G. Jackson was one of its most polarizing prospects. His journey to the league is somewhat of a unique one. He was the highest ranked player in the high school class of 2023 and committed to North Carolina. However, months later, Jackson re-classified up a year to the high school class of 2022, de-committed from North Carolina, and committed to South Carolina.

The switch from North to South Carolina was one that marked a stark change in quality of context. The Tarheels were fresh off a National Championship appearance while the Gamecocks ended the season in the bottom half of the SEC standings.

This poor context at South Carolina combined with his young age made for an up-and-down freshman season. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 15.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game, but tallied less than a single assist on average and had just a 47.4 true shooting percentage.

Still, his incredible scoring flashes and underrated complimentary utility made him a top-10 prospect in this year’s draft in my opinion. His mix of handle, movement skills, creativity, footwork, and shot-making, with physical tools made him extremely enticing. He slid to pick 35, likely due to concerns with his efficiency and lack of passing, but the development staff and contending environment in Memphis should be perfect for Jackson, so this could be a blessing in disguise.

Jackson got off to a great start in his second summer league game for the Grizzlies. He recorded 23 points and 10 rebounds while drilling four of his nine attempts from beyond the arc.

In addition to his superstar flashes, the self-created layups and pull-up jumpers, the 18-year-old played tenacious defense, cashed in on teammates’ creation, and hit the boards hard. Making an impact by doing these things will get Jackson valuable playing time early, which he can utilize to polish his scoring skills with baby steps.

The Grizzlies’ next summer league game is Saturday against the Chicago Bulls at Cox Pavillion in Las Vegas. Jackson will have the opportunity to build upon his great performance the last time out and showcase more of why he should’ve gone off the board higher on draft night.

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