Justin Jackson

McDonald’s All-American Recap: Jackson’s propensity to score in bunches was on display again. He played more power forward than small forward, which had him out of position, but his soft mid-range game was automatic as usual. He could very well be the best scorer in the class—whether it’s a mid-range floater, pull-up off the dribble, put-back, or improving 3-point shot, Jackson finds a way to get the ball in the basket. He still needs to show more consistency shooting from deep and finishing in transition, but he is the most complete offensive wing player in the country. Size and consistency in the half court set him apart.

McDonald’s All-American Preview: 

Jackson is the most offensively complete wing player in the class. A 6-7 small forward, Jackson has a wiry frame but knows how to angle his body and use his length to finish all over the floor. He can handle the ball, both in transition and under pressure, and he is automatic inside the 3-point line.

Jackson has a long first step to get into the mid-range area, where he can stop-and-rise for a tear-drop. In fact, Jackson’s floater is the most reliable move in the country. If I had to trust one player in the class to get me a basket, I’m choosing Jackson and his floater.

Jackson needs to show more consistency on his 3-point shot, especially as defenders begin to wall off his driving lanes. Right now he’s a good but not great distance shooter, as he mostly relies on his driving game and transition. He also needs to add muscle to his 185-pound frame.

But at 6-7, Jackson has an unbelievable mid-range game, and he can defend 2s and 3s . It concerns me that he’s homeschooled because he plays terrible competition—and frankly I’d like to know how old Jackson is—but if he’s a true senior, his upside is very high.

Elite 24 Showcase 2013 (New York, NY)

Observation 10: Justin Jackson’s floater is the most reliable move in the country

It’s not often a high school player has perfected a move to the point where he never misses it, but I think Justin Jackson has done it. Throughout this summer—from the Peach Jam to the Global Challenge to the Elite 24—Jackson has been the most consistently effective player on the circuit, and if you have to pinpoint one aspect of his game, it’s his patented floater.

Regardless of who is on him, defenders have not been able to stop Jackson’s floater. Starting in the triple-threat position from the wing, he takes two dribbles in either direction, quickly plants his feet and rises for a floater over the defender. It’s a work of art, really.

In addition to the floater, the North Carolina commit has a wiry frame but knows how to use his body to finish through contact. He contributes while taking good shots, and he runs out in transition and finishes above the rim. He’s a team-first guy who should be in the NBA in a few years.

Nike Global Challenge 2013 (Washington D.C.): Just like we saw at the Peach Jam, Jackson continued his dominance at the Global Challenge. I believe he’s the most complete small forward in the country.

Jackson showcased his complete skill set, recording 17 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists in the Championship game. He scored from the perimeter, in the midrange and the paint. In addition to his always-perfect floater and consistent rebounding, the lanky wing showcased a few back to the basket moves.

Jackson has the foot speed and length to guard multiple positions. Needs to add muscle, but he is becoming an elite player on both ends of the court.

Nike Peach Jam 2013 (North Augusta, SC): Jackson has a very complete game, and he is easily one of the top six players in the country.

A 6-7 small forward, Jackson has a wiry frame but knows how to use his body and finish from all over the floor. He can handle the ball, both in open court and against pressure, and can finish better than anyone in the country inside the 3-point line. I’d say Jackson has the best floater in the country. He contributes while taking good shots, and he runs out in transition and finishes above the rim. I haven’t seen a better overall wing prospect in the Class of 2014.