Where did Jaren Jackson Jr. play college ball?

Jaren Jackson Jr. plays for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. Since being drafted with the fourth overall pick in 2018, JJJ has become the Grizzlies’ defensive talisman. Jackson Jr. began his basketball journey in La Porte, Indiana where he won two IHSAA titles (Indiana High School Athletic Association).

JJJ is celebrated for his tenacious defensive skills and an imposing presence in the paint. However, he's not just a formidable defender, but also a remarkable shooter with the soft touch and agility of a guard. His versatility as a stretch 4 or 5 makes him an invaluable asset for the Grizzlies on both ends of the court.

Jaren Jackson Jr. has been twice named to the All-NBA defensive team because he is the 'Block Panther’ that prowls in the paint with a supernatural knack for swatting shots near the rim! At 6 feet 11 inches, JJJ is blessed with astounding agility and lateral quickness, akin to a pesky panther on defense. This led him to become the Defensive Player of the Year in the 2022-23 season, and also being named an All-Star for the first time. His ability to impact both ends of the court, combined with his youthful energy, makes him an exciting and promising talent in the NBA.

Jaren Jackson Jr. College Career

Jaren Jackson Jr played college ball with the Michigan State Spartans. In his one season with the Spartans in 2017-18, the entire basketball world took notice of his defensive prowess and shot-blocking abilities. He once recorded eight blocks in a single game. He also registered 21 points, 11 rebounds and six blocks in a game against Illinois university.

Even in college, JJJ wasn’t not just about athleticism. He showcased a versatile game that included not only shot-blocking prowess, but also an impressive ability to score from both inside and beyond the arc. This versatility, especially his 3-point shooting, set the stage for his future success in the NBA.

His outstanding performances in college earned him multiple accolades, including the Big Ten's Defensive Player of the Year and a spot on the All-Big Ten Third Team.

Jaren Jackson Jr Teammates at Michigan State

At Michigan State, Jaren Jackson Jr. was teammates with future NBA players such as Miles Bridges, Xavier Tillman and Cassius Winston.

Xavier Tillman and Jaren Jackson Jr.'s basketball journey is a delightful twist of fate. At Michigan State, Tillman was a back-up power forward behind JJJ. Then, in 2018, JJJ soared to the NBA, landing with the Grizzlies. Fast forward to 2020, Tillman also comes into the NBA, initially drafted by the Sacramento Kings, but Grizzlies made a draft-day trade which led Tillman right beside JJJ in Memphis.

When was Jaren Jackson Jr born?

Jaren Jackson Jr. was born on September 15, 1999. His father Jaren Jackson Sr. was a former professional basketball player who played for many NBA teams including the San Antonio Spurs team that won the 1999 NBA championship. JJJ’s mother Terri Carmichael Jackson presently holds the position of Executive Director at the Women's National Basketball Players Association.