North Carolina fans know just how good five-star 2024 commit Ian Jackson is, following him after he committed to the program earlier in 2023.
Jackson has elevated his game since making his commitment to the Tar Heels and following an impressive junior season, he’s carried that over to the AAU circuit this Summer. The past three days have been impressive for Jackson as he’s been at the Under Armour Elite 24 event,
And he’s earning some praise for his playmaking abilities.
Rivals.com reporter Jason Jordan wrote on Jackson’s performance at the three-day event, praising his game and even talking about his point guard abilities as well:
Jackson has always been lauded for his athleticism and scoring abilities; and rightfully so, but for anyone paying close attention this summer, Jackson’s ability as a playmaker was his greatest asset. Oftentimes, Jackson handled point guard duties for the NY Wiz Kids in the adidas 3SSB and thrived.
It was no different over the last three days here at the Elite 24.
Jackson’s famous first step is as lethal an offensive weapon as there is and he’s got remarkable vision and instinct once he gets past the first level of defense, evident of his play in the Elite 24 scrimmage and game.
That said, it doesn’t mean he’ll slide in and run the point exclusively for the Tar Heels in the likely event of Elliot Cadeau’s exit to the NBA after his freshman season. As it stands, the Tar Heels would still have a more than capable option in Seth Trimble still in the stable.
Plus, as gifted as he is running the show, Jackson is still at his best when he’s in attack mode on the offensive end, evident from his 29.3 points per game average at the adidas All-American Camp just over a week ago.
Still, his abilities as a point guard will give Hubert Davis loads of options with lineups on the Hill.
That’s certainly some high praise and an interesting note about Jackson being able to play some point guard if needed. Listed as a shooting guard, Jackson has shown his ability to not only be a scorer but also make plays in other areas of his game.
That’s going to be a big bonus for the Tar Heels when he arrives on campus as the stock continues to rise for his game.
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