The Memphis Grizzlies’ 19-year-old rookie, GG Jackson, had a moment he won’t soon forget when NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal interviewed him after his stellar performance against the Golden State Warriors. Jackson, who celebrated his 19th birthday on December 17, showcased his talent by scoring 23 points in the Grizzlies’ 116–107 victory over the Warriors.
“GG, Shaq here. I don’t have any questions, I just want to say congratulations, young fella. You played a hell of a game, and if people didn’t know who you were, they do now. I’m so proud of you.”
Youngest player in the NBA, GG Jackson's reaction when he heard Shaq interviewing him after dropping 23 PTS ❤️ pic.twitter.com/hfpIXCnY6N
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) January 16, 2024
TNT’s Inside the NBA featured a heartwarming post-game exchange between Shaquille O’Neal and the young rookie. O’Neal congratulated Jackson on his outstanding game, expressing pride in the rookie’s performance. Jackson, visibly stunned and elated, thanked O’Neal and described it as an honor to hear the NBA legend’s voice.
GG Jackson’s remarkable achievements extend beyond the memorable interview. At just 19 years and 29 days old, he became the second-youngest player in NBA history to record back-to-back 20+ point games. The only player to achieve this at a younger age is LeBron James, who accomplished it five times during the 2003-04 season.
The Grizzlies, despite being short-handed due to injuries, managed to secure an unexpected victory against the Warriors. Vince Williams Jr. scored 24 points, and GG Jackson’s career-high 23 points significantly contributed to the team’s success.
The win, especially with key players sidelined, was a testament to the organization’s commitment to player development, highlighted by the performance of players like GG Jackson.
As the Grizzlies celebrate this triumph, the focus remains on GG Jackson’s potential and the team’s dedication to nurturing young talents within the organization. The special moment shared with Shaquille O’Neal adds to the young rookie’s memorable journey in the NBA.
The Warriors’ Embarrassing Season Gets Worse
The Golden State Warriors‘ disappointing season took another hit as they suffered a 116-107 defeat against the shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies. Despite the Grizzlies missing key players like Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Marcus Smart, Derrick Rose, Brandon Clarke, and Steven Adams, they managed to outperform the struggling Warriors.
The Grizzlies’ bench, led by GG Jackson’s standout performance, played a crucial role in their victory, shooting efficiently and contributing 57 points. Jackson, who turned 19 in December, displayed his potential by scoring 23 points with six rebounds, two steals, two blocks, and a game-high +23 plus/minus.
While the Grizzlies excelled from behind the arc, making 20 threes, the Warriors struggled to match their offensive output. The discrepancy in free-throw attempts further complicated the Warriors’ chances, with the Grizzlies going to the line 40 times, four more than the Warriors.
Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and Jonathan Kuminga were the primary contributors for the Warriors, but their efforts weren’t enough to secure a win. Curry scored a game-high 26 points, Wiggins recorded 16 points, and Kuminga added 20 points off the bench.
In his return from a suspension, Draymond Green played over 23 minutes, contributing 7 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and a steal. However, Green’s presence alone couldn’t prevent the Warriors from succumbing to familiar issues, including turnovers, fouls, and defensive lapses.
The loss raised concerns about the Warriors’ ability to contend, even with Green back in the lineup. Coach Steve Kerr emphasized the need for a smart, clean game, acknowledging the team’s current struggles. Green, while effective individually, stressed the importance of pride and defensive commitment among the players.
The Warriors’ ongoing challenges may prompt them to explore potential trade deadline moves to address their weaknesses and revitalize their championship aspirations. The disappointing loss to the Grizzlies underscores the urgency for changes within the team.
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