Top-20 sophomore GG Jackson discusses early recruitment

South Carolina continues to add talent to its pipeline every single year. In a year where basketball has shifted into a different gear, GG Jackson has been able to display his talent this winter and has developed himself into one of the top-rated sophomores in America.

The 6-foot-9 wing/forward out of Ridge View (SC) is a prospect I fully expect to be a blue-chip prospect that will skyrocket in the rankings. He’s a long and lengthy forward that can pretty much do whatever he wants. He can take his defenders into the paint but is also extremely skilled on the perimeter. 

With length, he’s an excellent defender and forces tons of matchup problems for an opposing team's offense. He’s a high-level recruit, but his first scholarship offer didn’t come in until this summer.

That’s why you look at a guy like GG Jackson who dazzles every time he touches the floor, he didn’t get an offer and his recognition till this summer, imagine if COVID-19 didn’t halt the major camps and circuits? 

Now, Jackson holds six high-major offers entering the new year. A number I believe will see instant growth as we approach the spring just a few months away. Jackson, a star 2023 prospect, discussed his early recruitment with Stockrisers.com and also gave us a personal scouting report on himself.

Which schools have extended you a scholarship offer?

“Six schools have offered, South Carolina, Clemson, Wake Forest, Syracuse, Pittsburgh, and Virginia Tech.”

How about programs that are currently interested?

“Florida State, Georgia Tech, and Georgetown have an interest.”

Discuss South Carolina and the option of staying home and being a Gamecock?

“South Carolina is a great school and it’s close to home. I like how they play hard-nosed defense, and I also like how coach Martin is not afraid to yell at you for mistakes. I think it takes a tough coach like that to win ball games.”

Syracuse was in the mix with you early, discuss your thoughts on them.

“I like Syracuse a lot because they were the first to come and they have a great hall of fame coach and produced big-time players.”

And how about another local program in Wake Forest?

“I enjoyed the conference call with Coach [Steve] Forbes and he talked me through how he builds a deep relationship with his players, not just on the court but off the court too.”

Now give a personal scouting report on yourself.

“My game is sort of a point-forward type build because I get you with the footwork but also take you off the dribble, and I might even step back a hit a jumper too. On the defensive end, my size and my big frame and agility allow me to guard a lot of positions on the floor and I rebound a lot and block shots.”

How has COVID-19 impacted the recruiting process for you?

“Coaches are not allowed to come out and watch us play and also games can be canceled and you can’t get film for a coach. But for me, it gives me time to work on my game and sharpen my skills.”

What are your expectations for this season?

“My season expectations are of course to win a state championship but also to make the all-state team. And keep improving.”