Former five-star recruit Ian Jackson is transferring from North Carolina to St. John's, marking a significant acquisition for coach Rick Pitino. After a freshman season at UNC that saw him average 11.9 points per game and achieve All-ACC honors, Jackson is returning home to the Bronx. His move aims to bolster St. John’s shooting struggles, identified as a key issue during their NCAA Tournament exit. With exceptional scoring prowess and versatility, Jackson is poised to make an immediate impact as a rising sophomore.

By the Numbers
  • Ian Jackson averaged 11.9 points per game during his freshman year at North Carolina.
  • He scored over 22.7 points per game during a seven-game stretch early in the season, shooting 54% from the field.
Yes, But

Critics suggest that Jackson may not have been utilized effectively at North Carolina, indicating potential for enhanced performance under Pitino’s system.

State of Play
  • St. John's is coming off a 31-5 season, capturing both the Big East regular-season and tournament titles.
  • The team aims to improve its shooting capabilities after a disappointing NCAA Tournament performance.
What's Next

As Jackson joins a talented transfer class featuring all-conference players, St. John's appears set to build a formidable 2025-26 roster aimed at sustaining their competitive edge.

Bottom Line

Jackson’s transfer to St. John’s could significantly enhance the team’s offensive strategy, making them a strong contender in their conference next season.