Right now, St. John’s has pole position in the Ian Jackson sweepstakes, thanks to the leadership of Rick Pitino and a clear need for a player of his caliber
But the recruiting landscape is never static—especially with coaches like John Calipari and Mark Pope lurking in the shadows.
With NIL, roster needs, and playing time all factoring into the equation, this decision could come down to more than just basketball.
Wherever Jackson lands, expect him to be a difference-maker from the jump and a potential one-and-done talent ready for the NBA spotlight.
One thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on Ian Jackson in the coming weeks.
In the ever-changing world of college basketball, where the transfer portal has become a game-changer, the potential union of Ian Jackson and St. John’s stands out as a fascinating storyline. It’s a chance for redemption, growth, and a fresh start — both for Jackson and the Red Storm.
Should this move materialize, it could mark the beginning of a new era for St. John’s basketball, and a pivotal chapter in Ian Jackson’s young but promising career.
Only time will tell, but for now, all eyes will be on Queens this weekend.
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Ian Jackson Enters the Transfer Portal
In a move that stunned the college basketball world, Ian Jackson, once hailed as one of the top five-star recruits in the country, entered the NCAA transfer portal after just one season with the North Carolina Tar Heels.1
Jackson’s decision, announced on a quiet Monday, sent shockwaves through the basketball community and ignited a frenzy among top-tier programs looking to secure his immense talent.
The freshman guard had shown flashes of brilliance in Chapel Hill but ultimately chose to seek a new environment — one where he could better harness his abilities and perhaps play a more prominent role.
This unexpected twist in Jackson’s journey has already created a ripple effect across the college basketball landscape.
Revisiting the Recruitment Battle
To understand the gravity of Jackson’s potential transfer, it’s important to look back at his recruitment.
As a high school prospect, Jackson was pursued by a slew of blue-blood programs and elite schools. North Carolina ultimately won the battle, but St. John’s was firmly in the mix throughout the process.
Under the leadership of Rick Pitino, the Red Storm were aggressive in their pursuit of Jackson. Although they came up short the first time, the ongoing interest has not waned.
In fact, sources suggest that St. John’s has remained in contact with Jackson and his camp, planting the seeds for what could now be a successful second attempt at landing the dynamic guard.
Ian Jackson: Early Struggles and Bright Spots at UNC
Jackson’s freshman year at North Carolina was a mixed bag. According to analyst Jeff Goodman on The Field of 68: After Dark podcast, Jackson enjoyed a particularly strong three-week stretch during the season.2
During that period, his scoring ability and quickness were on full display. However, like many freshmen, he also faced the usual adjustment hurdles — from adapting to college-level defenses to fitting into a veteran-heavy lineup.
Goodman suggested that while Jackson’s talent was undeniable, the fit within Hubert Davis’ system may not have been ideal.
older guards ahead of him on the depth chart and a style that didn’t always maximize his strengths, the freshman found it difficult to consistently showcase his full skill set.
St. John’s: A New Home on the Horizon?
All signs now point to St. John’s as the likely destination for Ian Jackson. Jeff Goodman confirmed during the podcast that Jackson is set to visit the Queens-based school this coming weekend.
“I would be surprised if Ian Jackson does not become a St. John’s Johnny,” Goodman stated confidently.
This level of certainty from a respected insider speaks volumes. The Red Storm, under Rick Pitino’s strategic guidance, are building a talented and versatile roster that could immediately benefit from a player of Jackson’s caliber.
His scoring prowess and athleticism would make him a valuable piece in Pitino’s aggressive, up-tempo system.
Why Rick Pitino Is the Perfect Mentor
One of the most intriguing elements of this potential transfer is the opportunity for Ian Jackson to play under Hall of Fame coach Rick Pitino.
Known for his intense, detail-oriented approach and ability to develop guards, Pitino could be exactly what Jackson needs to refine his game and reach his ceiling.
Pitino’s teams are known for their relentless defensive pressure, swift ball movement, and emphasis on perimeter play — all of which align with Jackson’s strengths.
With the right coaching and system in place, Jackson could not only thrive at St. John’s but also elevate his NBA draft stock significantly.
Ian Jackson: The Supporting Cast at St. John’s
Another major draw for Jackson is the talent already assembled at St. John’s. Jeff Goodman mentioned key returning and incoming players who will bolster the team.3
Notably, Bryce Hopkins and Zuby Ejiofor are set to return and play significant roles. Hopkins, a versatile forward with scoring and rebounding abilities, and Ejiofor, a physical big man, give the Red Storm a strong frontcourt foundation.
Adding Jackson to that mix provides Pitino with a dangerous backcourt scoring threat. Jackson’s ability to create off the dribble, knock down mid-range jumpers, and finish at the rim could instantly make him one of the focal points of the offense.
A Fresh Start in the Big East
If Jackson indeed commits to St. John’s, he’ll be joining one of the most competitive conferences in college basketball — the Big East.
Known for its physicality and storied rivalries, the Big East could provide Jackson with the type of competitive atmosphere that accelerates growth and prepares him for the professional level.
Moreover, playing in New York City — one of basketball’s most iconic cities — offers unmatched exposure.
Games at Madison Square Garden, national TV slots, and passionate fan support all contribute to a high-profile platform that could help Jackson shine.
The Risk and Reward of Transferring
While the move to St. John’s seems promising on paper, transferring always comes with its risks.
For Jackson, the challenge will be in quickly adapting to a new system, building chemistry with teammates, and handling the heightened expectations that will come with his arrival.
However, the potential rewards far outweigh the risks. With Pitino’s mentorship, a strong supporting cast, and a system that plays to his strengths, Jackson could emerge as one of the standout players in the Big East — and perhaps even the nation.
Reactions from the College Basketball Community
- The news of Jackson’s entry into the portal and the rumors linking him to St. John’s have generated buzz across social media and sports outlets.
- Fans of the Red Storm are already imagining what a backcourt led by Jackson might look like, while Tar Heel supporters are left wondering what could have been.
- Pundits have also weighed in, with many noting that this could be a turning point for St. John’s.
- After a solid season under Pitino’s first year, landing a player of Jackson’s caliber could catapult the program into national relevance once again.
- Jackson’s visit to St. John’s this weekend will likely be the determining factor in his transfer decision. If the visit goes well, and all indications suggest it will, a commitment could come shortly thereafter.
- Should that happen, St. John’s would be making a major statement — not just within the Big East, but across the entire college basketball landscape.
- The Red Storm would become immediate contenders, with a mix of young talent and veteran leadership, all orchestrated by one of the game’s great minds in Rick Pitino.
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Ian Jackson’s Next Move: St. John’s Emerging as Frontrunner
As the college basketball offseason heats up, so too does the speculation surrounding some of the nation’s top talents.
Among the biggest names in the mix is Ian Jackson, the five-star shooting guard and McDonald’s All-American whose next move is one of the hottest topics in recruiting circles.
Recently, 247Sports national analyst Travis Branham offered insight into where Jackson might land—and his leading candidate may not come as a surprise.
Branham, a well-respected voice in the college basketball recruiting world, appeared on the “College Basketball Show” earlier this week and provided key details on what fans and programs can expect in Jackson’s recruitment. Let’s take a deeper look at his insights and what they could mean for Jackson’s collegiate future.
St. John’s: The Clear Favorite
According to Branham, St. John’s University is currently the “team to beat” for Ian Jackson.
The Red Storm, now coached by Hall of Famer Rick Pitino, have been aggressive in the transfer portal and are seeking dynamic guard play to help replace Deivon Smith and RJ Luis, who both departed the program this offseason.
“They’ve been very active trying to land a high-profile guard,” Branham said. “With Jackson still on the market, St. John’s has a clear need, and he fits what Pitino is looking for—explosiveness, shot creation, and defense.”
Jackson, known for his athleticism and two-way ability, would immediately slot into a starring role in Queens. Pairing him with Pitino’s up-tempo system could be exactly the kind of showcase Jackson needs before heading to the NBA.
Ian Jackson: The Rick Pitino Effect
One of the biggest factors working in St. John’s favor is Rick Pitino himself.
The legendary coach’s name carries weight with top-tier recruits, and his reputation for developing NBA-level talent is well documented.
Pitino’s successful stints at Kentucky, Louisville, and now his revival of the St. John’s program have helped solidify his status as a coach that top recruits can trust.
For a player like Jackson, who likely has NBA aspirations, being coached by someone with a Hall of Fame pedigree could be a major draw.
Additionally, Pitino’s system plays to Jackson’s strengths: high tempo, emphasis on defense, and allowing guards to play with freedom. It’s a system that could help Jackson shine from Day 1.
Filling the Void Left by Departures
The Red Storm’s backcourt took a hit when Deivon Smith, a dynamic playmaker, and RJ Luis, a reliable scorer, both left the program.
This created an immediate need for talent and leadership at the guard position. Branham emphasized that Jackson would be a perfect solution.
“Jackson isn’t just a scorer,” Branham explained. “He’s a competitor. He brings energy on both ends of the floor, and he’s a guy who can lead a team.”
Jackson’s ability to handle the ball, defend multiple positions, and score at all three levels gives him the versatility needed to step in and make an immediate impact for a program looking to return to national relevance.
Ian Jackson: Promotion
Ian Jackson promoting adidas basketball’s brand new range “Panama” which is out now for sale.
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Arkansas: A Possible Dark Horse?
While St. John’s may be the favorite, Branham also pointed out a potential sleeper in the race—the Arkansas Razorbacks.
With new head coach John Calipari taking over in Fayetteville, the program has become an attractive destination for top talent once again.
Calipari had previously recruited Jackson during his tenure at Kentucky, and there could be mutual interest in reigniting that relationship now that he’s at Arkansas.
“Don’t count out Calipari,” Branham warned. “He liked Jackson before, and there’s still a real need for a guard in that Arkansas backcourt.”
Arkansas has already made waves this offseason by attracting transfers and high school talent alike, but adding someone of Jackson’s caliber would elevate them to contender status in the SEC.
Could Kentucky Still Be in the Mix?
While Calipari’s departure from Kentucky left some uncertainty in the Wildcats’ recruiting pipeline, Branham also left the door open for them to get involved in Jackson’s recruitment.
Kentucky’s new coach, Mark Pope, is facing pressure to maintain the program’s elite recruiting status, and targeting Jackson could be a statement move.
“They’ve got the scholarship space and the need for a dynamic guard,” Branham noted. “It wouldn’t shock me if Kentucky tried to make a late push.”
The Wildcats, despite undergoing a coaching change, still maintain national prestige and the promise of competing at the highest level. For Jackson, who thrives under pressure and loves the big stage, that could be enticing.
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