The reason behind Lady Vols star Rickea Jackson’s potential impact post-WNBA Draft.
Rickea Jackson’s introduction to the professional realm occurred during her high school years. Accompanying her god sister, Betnijah Laney, on a visit to Rutgers University before Laney’s 2015 draft selection by the Chicago Sky, Jackson gained valuable insight into the life of a pro athlete. Witnessing Laney’s dedication and maturity off the court left a lasting impression on the young talent.
Reflecting on the experience during the NCAA Tournament, Jackson recalled Laney’s disciplined approach to balancing personal and professional commitments. Observing Laney’s conscientiousness, even down to her choice of a health-conscious beverage and coordination of workouts, Jackson noted how Laney managed to maintain a sense of fun amidst her serious pursuits.
From those formative moments, Jackson’s journey has been one of growth and accomplishment. Beginning with three state titles at Detroit Edison, she ascended to become the fifth-ranked recruit in the 2019 class. Her collegiate career saw her excel at Mississippi State before culminating at Tennessee, where she solidified her status as a top prospect for the WNBA Draft.
As she prepares to embark on her professional career, Jackson’s collegiate finale showcased her prowess. Notably, her 33-point performance against NC State demonstrated her scoring ability, complemented by a well-rounded game that included tenacious rebounding and adept passing.
Acknowledging her evolution as a player, Jackson highlighted her increased confidence and versatility, attributes honed during her tenure at Tennessee. ESPN analyst and former Lady Vol Andraya Carter emphasized Jackson’s potential impact in the WNBA, citing her ability to thrive in a more expansive role surrounded by seasoned professionals.
With her multifaceted skill set and unwavering determination, Rickea Jackson emerges as a promising prospect poised to leave a significant mark in the professional basketball arena.
