In a remarkable turn of events, UNC basketball has found a new sensation in Ian Jackson. The 19-year-old guard from New York has made waves by clinching the ACC Rookie of the Week title for the third week that hasn't gone to Duke players. Jackson, who entered the season with high expectations as a McDonald’s All-American and the ninth overall prospect on the 247Sports 2024 Composite, has not only secured this prestigious accolade but also earned national recognition as both the United States Basketball Writers Association and CBS Sports National Freshman of the Week. His impressive performances have raised eyebrows and increased his NBA draft prospects.
In the heart of winter, Chapel Hill witnessed an extraordinary display of talent as Ian Jackson, the young guard for the North Carolina Tar Heels, emerged as a standout player. With his dynamic presence on the court, Jackson became the lone Tar Heel to receive the ACC Rookie of the Week award among eight weeks of recipients this season. This honor was particularly significant as it broke the dominance of Duke’s Cooper Flagg and Kon Knueppel, who had claimed the title for most of the season.
Jackson's achievements did not stop there. The 19-year-old, who hails from New York and was once ranked ninth overall on the 247Sports 2024 Composite, also garnered national attention by being named the USBWA and CBS Sports National Freshman of the Week. According to CBS Sports' Cameron Salerno, Jackson entered the season with the potential to be a lottery pick in the NBA Draft. If he continues at this level, his stock will undoubtedly rise ahead of the 2025 NBA Draft.
In his 12 appearances with the Tar Heels (8-5, 1-0 ACC), Jackson has averaged 13.2 points and 3.1 rebounds. However, over the past seven games, including a career-high 26-point performance in Sunday night’s 97-81 victory over Campbell, he has averaged an impressive 16.9 points per game. His increased playing time has been instrumental in his recent success.
Looking ahead, Jackson and the rest of Hubert Davis' fourth UNC basketball squad face their first conference road challenge against Louisville (8-5, 1-1 ACC) at 6 p.m. ET on Wednesday (ACC Network).
From a journalist's perspective, Ian Jackson's rapid ascent is a testament to the power of hard work and natural talent. His early-season performances have set the stage for what could be a historic year for the Tar Heels. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly watching to see how Jackson's journey unfolds, as he continues to defy expectations and raise the bar for freshmen in college basketball.