Paul George, a nine-time NBA All-Star, recently praised Memphis Grizzlies rookie GG Jackson on his “Podcast P with Paul George,” highlighting Jackson’s impressive debut season.
“I like the kid GG Jackson for the Memphis Grizzlies. I think he is really good. He doesn’t get talked about enough for his rookie campaign. To be the youngest player in the NBA and still be productive. I know they were on a team that was kind of limited with injuries and Ja not being there.”
“I thought he stepped in when the light was a little dim in Memphis and shed his light to kind of make a showcase that he is here to stay in the NBA. I think he is just kind of complete.”
“He doesn’t get talked about enough in the conversations of the youngest guys to do it. I am not putting him in this category, but he potentially could have been an out of high school player, put him in the age bracket.”
“For his ceiling at this first year, he outperformed Kobe at that age. I don’t think he is getting talked about enough when you put him under that light of guys that came into this league, been successful in this league, to start their career off at that early of an age.”
GG Jackson held his own while being the youngest player in the NBA 💯
Salute @_ggjackson! pic.twitter.com/6oNvQz0Oom
— Podcast P with Paul George (@PodcastPShow) June 1, 2024
George noted Jackson’s ability to score, rebound, and defend, showcasing his all-around game at just 19 years old. In particular, George emphasized Jackson’s scoring prowess and athleticism, which have made him a key player for the Grizzlies. Jackson’s standout moment came in the season finale against the Denver Nuggets, where he recorded 44 points and 12 rebounds, setting a record as the youngest player to achieve such a feat.
Throughout the season, Jackson has drawn attention from NBA stars like LeBron James and Chris Paul, who have both praised his performance. Shaquille O’Neal also commended Jackson after a strong showing against the Golden State Warriors. Jackson’s ability to consistently score in double figures and deliver clutch performances has solidified his reputation as a rising star in the league.
George’s comparison of Jackson to Kobe Bryant at the same age is particularly striking. He pointed out that Jackson’s debut season has been more productive than Kobe’s rookie year, a testament to Jackson’s skill and potential. This high praise from a veteran player like George underscores the significant impact Jackson has had in his first year.
Despite being a second-round pick, Jackson outperformed many first-round selections, earning a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Team. George expressed surprise that Jackson hasn’t received more recognition, considering his productivity as the youngest player in the league.
Jackson’s rookie season statistics further support George’s claims. He averaged 14.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, shooting 42.8% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range. Despite playing limited games early in the season, he quickly made his mark, finishing fourth among rookies in points per game.
As Jackson continues to develop, his future in the NBA looks incredibly promising. With the endorsement of players like Paul George and his impressive rookie season, GG Jackson is poised to become a key player for the Memphis Grizzlies and a notable name in the league for years to come.
The Memphis Grizzlies Need A Statement Season
The Memphis Grizzlies were once viewed as the next great team in the NBA, with a core of young stars and a budding superstar in Ja Morant. However, since Morant’s infamous “I’m fine in the West” comment, the team has faced significant challenges that have derailed their trajectory.
Following that bold statement, the Grizzlies faced a series of setbacks, starting with suspensions for Ja Morant. This cast a shadow over their previous season and seemed to jinx the team. Despite finishing with an impressive 51-31 record and securing the second seed, they were knocked out in the first round of the playoffs by the Los Angeles Lakers. The high expectations crumbled under the weight of off-court distractions and inconsistent play.
Entering the current season, the Grizzlies were dealt another blow with Morant receiving a 25-game suspension. By the time he returned, the team was already struggling to find its footing in a highly competitive Western Conference. Despite showing flashes of their potential, the Grizzlies couldn’t overcome the challenges posed by a loaded conference. Morant’s subsequent injury, ruling him out for the season, only compounded their problems.
The Grizzlies set an unfortunate NBA record by using 33 players throughout the season. The constant roster changes led to another record: 51 different starting lineups.
They also endured a staggering 578 total games missed due to injuries, further highlighting their tumultuous season. The team had to resort to 12 injury hardship exceptions and one suspension exemption due to Morant’s absence, underscoring the depth of their struggles.
Now, the Grizzlies need a statement season to re-establish themselves as a formidable force in the West. They must demonstrate that they are indeed the next big thing and capable of competing at the highest level.
This resurgence hinges significantly on Ja Morant, who needs to come back strong and remind everyone why he was once considered the potential face of the league. With players like Anthony Edwards and Luka Doncic now in the spotlight, Morant has to reclaim his place in the conversation and lead his team to success.
A comeback season for the Grizzlies will not only restore their reputation but also solidify their standing as a top contender in the Western Conference. It’s a crucial moment for both the franchise and its star player to rise above past challenges and fulfill the promise they once showed.
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