via Getty
Kobe Bryant directs his teammates during a game against the Timberwolves on Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at Staples Center. (Photo by Luis Sinco/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
via Getty
Kobe Bryant directs his teammates during a game against the Timberwolves on Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, at Staples Center. (Photo by Luis Sinco/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
On a historic night while NBA legend Kobe Bryant was being celebrated at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, this season’s youngest player GG Jackson II was creating history at the FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. Coincidentally, the very same night, the 19-year-old Jackson became the youngest player ever to score over 25 points off the bench, dethroning a record previously held by Bryant himself.
GG Jackson (19y, 53d) tonight became the youngest player in NBA history to score 25+ points off the bench, previously:
Kobe Bryant on 11/9/1997 (19y, 78d) pic.twitter.com/Vz8hYTKVyj
— NBA History (@NBAHistory) February 9, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The 45th pick in the 2023 NBA draft, Jackson II, had already locked down a two-way contract with the Memphis Grizzlies but after stepping up on multiple occasions and now after having dethroned the Hall of Famer, Bryant, from his previously held record, the Grizzlies have solidified a 4-year contract with the rising superstar.
Memphis Grizzlies F GG Jackson has agreed on a four-year contract — including three guaranteed seasons, sources tell ESPN. Jackson played one season at South Carolina before the Grizzlies drafted him 45th overall in June and signed him on a two-way contract. pic.twitter.com/zuocZ7AIIu
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 9, 2024
Even though he was not originally intended to be a part of the rotation to open the 23-24 campaign, on account of the Grizzlies camp being riddled with injuries, a path has been paved for young Jackson to step up and seize the opportunities thrown his way and seize he did!
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Rookie Turning Heads
In their last match-up against the Chicago Bulls, though the Grizzlies lost 110-118, the performance rendered by the rookie GG Jackson not only turned heads but brokered deals too. Jackson scored a career-high of 27 points on 50% shooting from the floor showcasing his skill-set to coaches and fans alike.
GG Jackson is the only player from South Carolina in the league currently. Before the Bulls game, GG was averaging 8.9 points and 3.2 rebounds on 41.9% shooting from the field. While his starting appearances may see a decrease once the other players regain their health, Jackson should still be on the regular rotation with his impressive performances.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
From the looks of it, young rookie Jackson has stepped into giant shoes after breaking Kobe’s long-held record. One of many records set by the Hall of Famer. Will GG Jackson ever strive for an 81-point game one day? While it’s too early to make any predictions, Jackson undoubtedly seems to be on the right track! An exciting journey awaits him and the fans.
Watch the story: Kobe Bryant Statue: Heartbroken Stephen A. Smith Brings Michael Jordan’s Viral Meme to Light in Mamba Tribute
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
