For every superstar multi-million dollar player in the NBA there are tons of young players just trying to get out on the court. Working day in and day out, these players strive for their chance to go up against these All-Stars and make a name for themselves one day. Among these players is a great young point guard by the name of Pierre “Pappy” Jackson.
Pierre Jackson started out at Desert Pines High School in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he had a fantastic high school career; and he actually led the entire state in assists during his senior year.
After high school, Jackson attended the College of Southern Idaho for a couple of years. During his 2011 season with the CSI Golden Eagles Jackson really came onto the scene. Averaging over 18 points and four assists per game, Jackson led his team to a National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Championship in 2011 on his way to being named tournament MVP, first-team All-American, and NJCAA Player of the Year.
After his junior college career, Jackson attended the Baylor University to continue his collegiate career. During his junior year (2011-2012), Jackson led the Bears all the way to the Elite Eight on 13.8 points 5.9 assists per game. Although Baylor would lose to Kentucky in the Elite Eight, Jackson was still named second team All-Big 12 and was an honorable mention All-American.
Jackson’s college career came to an end in 2013 in the National Invitation Tournament. With a win over Iowa, Baylor won the tournament; and Jackson was named Most Outstanding Player for his role in leading Baylor to their NIT victory.
Jackson was an interesting case when the NBA Draft rolled around. At only 5’10 there were questions about whether or not he would make it as a pro. Jackson may be short by NBA standards, but there is no denying what he is able to do with a basketball in his hands; and so with the 42nd overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, the Philadelphia 76ers selected the Baylor superstar.
A few weeks later the 76ers traded Pierre Jackson’s draft rights and All-Star Jrue Holiday to the New Orleans Pelicans in exchange for 6th overall draft pick Nerlens Noel. Jackson would play for the Pelicans in the NBA Summer League that offseason.
At this point, Jackson began to bounce around. Jackson signed with ASVEL Villeurbanne of the LNB Pro A (France’s professional basketball association); however, he left in September before ever playing a game for the franchise. Then, in November, Jackson was the 4th overall pick in the NBA Developmental League Draft by the Idaho Stampede.
Since joining the NBA D-League Jackson has really made a name for himself. Jackson was named to the NBA D-League All-Star Game only three months after joining the Stampede. Then, on February 4th, 2014, Jackson made history: in a game against the Texas Legends, Jackson scored 58 points—a NBA D-League record for points in a single game.
After a short stint in Turkey, Jackson’s rights were traded back to the 76ers in exchange for Russ Smith. Jackson played for the Sixers in the 2014 NBA Summer League, and he finally earned a spot on the roster. Unfortunately, Jackson ruptured his Achilles in a game against the Orlando Magic; and after doctors ruled him out for six to 12 months he was waived by the team.
Jackson’s professional basketball career hasn’t been easy, but he has worked too hard to quit now. Jackson has made a near-full recovery at this time, and he is ready for another shot at the big leagues.
Look out NBA—Pappy Jack is coming for you.