Where did Jaren Jackson Jr. play college ball?

Jaren Jackson Jr. is a professional basketball player who plays for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA as of April 2025. Since being drafted with the fourth overall pick in 2018, JJJ is celebrated for his defensive skills and imposing presence in the paint. Jackson Jr. has been named to the All-NBA defensive team. He became the Defensive Player of the Year in the 2022-23 season. The two-time All-Star Jackson Jr. is in his seventh season (2024-25) with the Memphis Grizzlies and is averaging 18.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game as of April 2025.

Jaren Jackson Jr. has led the Memphis Grizzlies to three playoffs in his career. But the team has fallen short of reaching the Conference Finals in three attempts. In the season 2024-25, Jaren Jackson Jr., along with Desmond Bane and JA Morant, led the team to the play-in tournament. In the season, Jackson Jr is averaging 22.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.

Jaren Jackson Jr.'s 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 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.

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, holds the position of Executive Director at the Women's National Basketball Players Association.