Ian Jackson is a freshman guard for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels men’s basketball team. Born on February 14, 2005, in Harlem, New York, he grew up in The Bronx. Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 190 pounds, Jackson is known for his athleticism and scoring ability.
Jackson began his high school career at Cardinal Hayes High School, where he averaged 19.8 points, five rebounds, and four assists per game as a junior, leading the team to a state title. He transferred to Our Saviour Lutheran High School for his senior year, averaging 23.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. He also played for the JellyFam team in Overtime Elite, earning first-team All-OTE honors.
In January 2023, Jackson committed to North Carolina, choosing the Tar Heels over schools like Kentucky, Arkansas, LSU, and Oregon.
He was named ACC Rookie of the Week in December 2024 after scoring a season-high 26 points in his first college start. As of March 2025, Jackson averages 13.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game.
Internationally, Jackson has represented the USA Basketball teams, winning gold at the 2021 FIBA U16 Americas Championship and the 2022 U17 World Championships, and playing in the 2023 U19 World Cup.
Off the court, Jackson has secured endorsement deals with Adidas, WME Sports, and Panini America, with his NIL deals valued at $1.3 million as of November 2024.
His dynamic play and potential have led to discussions about his prospects for the 2025 NBA Draft.