
USA Today via Reuters
May 4, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Reggie Jackson (7) celebrates his three-point basket in the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game one of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
May 4, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Reggie Jackson (7) celebrates his three-point basket in the second quarter against the Minnesota Timberwolves during game one of the second round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Reggie Jackson, the seasoned point guard for the Philadelphia 76ers, has a story as unique as his game on the basketball court. He is a solid player from the bench, helping the Los Angeles Clippers and winning the title with the Denver Nuggets earlier. And now, he’s trying to help the 76ers after their poor start. Life began in a place far from a typical NBA path for Reggie, though.
His story comes from different countries and cultures, giving him a rich, diverse background that has undoubtedly influenced his approach to basketball and life. So, let’s explore about Reggie’s ethnicity and religion.
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Where is Reggie Jackson from? Is the Philadelphia 76ers’ star an American?
Reginald Shon Jackson, popularly known as Reggie Jackson, was born on April 16, 1990, in Pordenone, Italy. His early years were spent in an international military family. Born to American parents, Reggie’s father, Saul Jackson, was serving in the U.S. Air Force at the time of his birth, stationed at the Aviano Air Base. Due to his father’s military career, Jackson spent the early years of his life in Europe. Right when he turned five, the family moved from Italy to England before eventually relocating to the United States, settling in North Dakota briefly before moving across various states like Georgia and Florida.
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The Jacksons finally settled in Colorado Springs, Colorado and Reggie found his basketball home. At General William J. Palmer High School, he dominated the courts and, in 2008, earned the title of Gatorade Colorado Boys’ Basketball Player of the Year.
After graduating high school, Jackson attended Boston College, where he played with Tyrese Rice and Rakim Sanders and earned All-ACC honors. The Oklahoma City Thunder selected him in the first round of the 2011 draft, and since then played for 13 seasons with five NBA teams, including the Denver Nuggets and the LA Clippers.
Beyond his professional accolades, Reggie has earned two memorable nicknames. Fans call him “Big Government” coined during his time with the Detroit Pistons. The nickname developed from his reputation for stepping up and handling tough situations when his team was in need, embodying a larger-than-life presence on the court.
He’s also known as “Mister June,” a reference to MLB player Reggie Jackson’s nickname “Mister October”.
What religion does Reggie Jackson follow?
When it comes to faith, Reggie Jackson is a devout Christian. While he hasn’t spoken extensively about his religion in public, we can see his commitment to Christian values in his actions.
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He’s known for his philanthropic work, supporting causes like the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Speaking of Reggie’s background, he is of African-American ethnicity and has two siblings named – Travis and Trez. He is reportedly dating Maria Bardo-Colon, a racial rights and juvenile justice attorney.

USA Today via Reuters
Apr 4, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Reggie Jackson (7) is defended by Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1) in the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jackson’s unique mix of Italian birth, British upbringing, and American experiences makes him a global citizen in every sense. His frequently changing lifestyle, often called the “army brat” experience, left a lasting impression on him. Reggie’s journey from a NATO airbase to the bright lights of the NBA resonates with many aspiring athletes, particularly those who come from diverse backgrounds. His identity as an athlete makes him an important representative of the need for diversity in professional sports.
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Paul George summed it up perfectly while talking about Reggie’s induction into the 76ers, “One of the most confident players in the league. I think we all know he’s probably the smoothest player in the league. Entertaining at all times. Nothing he can’t do. Three-level scorer, high-level defender. So you’re getting a superstar. (He’s) a guy who’s still hungry, a guy who still has a lot left in the tank, and a tremendous player. I can’t wait to see what he does in a Sixers jersey“.
Although the time with the 76ers has not worked well, Jackson looks to make a difference in the upcoming games.
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Is Reggie Jackson the unsung hero the 76ers need to turn their season around?
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