2022's DJ Jackson racking up new offers with new school
In the winter of 2019, I stumbled across an open gym at Aspire Academy in Louisville, Kentucky.
It consisted of several high-major prospects and one of those was a newcomer at the school and was just arriving in the states. His name is DJ Jackson, a 6-foot-4 guard out of Mississauga, Canada who just enrolled at First Love Christian Academy in Pittsburgh, PA.
Jackson just arrived with the program earlier this month but it didn’t take him long to get acclimated with the First Love system, in which he’s thrived early. In the 2019 FIBA U16 Championships, he averaged 10.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and nearly two assists per contest. He became a vital part of Canada’s guard tandem which included Creighton signee, Ryan Nembhard.
He’s racked up several scholarships offers over the span of his recruitment. Among those offers are Seton Hall, Stony Brook, South Florida, and Mississippi State. Two of those offers came in the last week or so, including the most recent one being from South Florida’s staff.
At the Chet Mason Invitational, Jackson was named one of the event’s MVP’s, or well known as the Most Valuable Player. He would finish the game with 23 points and shined all game long despite the loss to Ypsi Prep (MI) which is led by Michigan State pledge and arguably the nation’s top-rated junior in Emoni Bates.
Three-level scorer, Jackson has added up to two inches (6’5) over the past 1.5 years. If you want a true high-level guard, you can rely on Jackson. If you make a cut he will find you, he rarely turns the ball over, talented playmaker, etc.
Jackson discussed his move to First Love, his game, and a quick recruitment update with Stockrisers.com.
Which programs would you say are in the mix at this time?
“Right now, I would say it is an even playing field with schools getting to know me and building relationships.”
You added two new scholarship offers, where from?
“The newest schools to offer a scholarship has been Mississippi State and South Florida.”
Who is the newest program to enter the mix?
“I’ve talked with Pittsburgh’s coach. The coach and I talked and he wants to just continue to build a relationship.”
How has the quick move to First Love been?
“Move to First Love has been great. I remained patient as the move-in was delayed to January, but since coming, the environment has pushed me to be the best and preparing me for the next level. It has been great overall.”
Any ideas on a commitment timeline yet?
“Not sure yet on a commitment date. We will see how the next few months will play out. I wouldn’t be against committing early if it is a great fit and the right place.”