UNC’s newest star, Ian Jackson, a remarkably talented freshman, has been making waves cementing his place in the rich history of UNC basketball. After dropping an electrifying 27 points in a thrilling win over Notre Dame, Jackson made history, becoming the first UNC freshman since Tyler Hansbrough to score 20 or more points in four straight games.

The freshman has stepped up as a key player for Hubert Davis, filling the void left by Seth Trimble’s injury. His stellar performances have earned him well-deserved recognition, including Dick Vitale’s “Diaper Dandy” award as the best college freshman of the week. Here’s everything you need to know about the 6’4 freshman.

Ian Jackson’s Journey to College Basketball

Born in Harlem, New York, Ian Jalen Patrick Jackson’s basketball journey began in the Bronx. The young talent quickly made a name for himself at Cardinal Hayes High School, earning National Sophomore of the Year honors, averaging an impressive 19.8 points, five rebounds, and four assists per game.

Seeking bigger challenges, he transferred to Our Saviour Lutheran School for his senior year. Therein, he thrived under coach Peter Wehye and posted impressive numbers in Overtime Elite— averaging 23.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. But his talent wasn’t just limited to his high school or club teams; it shined on the international stage as well.

Jackson’s talent extended beyond high school as he helped lead the USA to a gold medal at the 2021 FIBA Americas U16 Championship, scoring 30 points in a dominant win over Chile. He followed that with another gold at the 2022 FIBA U17 Men’s World Cup.

Widely regarded as one of the top players in the 2024 class, he entered college as a consensus five-star recruit as he chose to play college basketball at North Carolina, turning down offers from Kentucky, Arkansas, LSU, and Oregon.

Ian’s freshman season has been the highlight in what’s been a rollercoaster year for North Carolina. While the Tar Heels posted a 9-6 overall record and 2-1 in ACC play in their first 15 games of the 2024-25 season, Jackson led second in scoring with an average of 14.9 points— just behind RJ Davis’ 17.7.

What really stands out, though, is his efficiency. He’s been UNC’s most consistent scorer, hitting an impressive 51% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc.

According to On3, Ian Jackson has been making moves off the court as well. The guard signed deals with Adidas and WME Sports in February and with Panini America in April. As of November 2024, his NIL deal was valued at an impressive $1.3 million. The debut run even brought the guard in Freshman of the Year conversations.

The freshman leaves a mark, challenges no.1 recruit

“You look at the Tar Heels, even though we’re struggling a little bit, Ian Jackson has been a breakout player. He’s had big-time games. And he continues to get better and better.” This is what former North Carolina player Tyler Hansbrough remarked.

Jackson’s growth has earned praise from former players, teammates, and coaches, solidifying his status as one of the prospects for the Freshman of the Year race. This places him against the no.1 recruit of 2024 class and the projected no.1 pick of the 2025 NBA draft– Cooper Flagg.

In a standout two-game stretch in January, the  Duke freshman averaged 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, showing his ability to impact every aspect of the game. His shooting was impressive, hitting 61.5% from the field and a perfect 100% from the free-throw line.

Both Ian Jackson and Cooper Flagg have emerged as key contenders, each showcasing remarkable skills and consistency. With their standout performances, the ACC is home to some of the most exciting young talents in college basketball this season.

Ian Jackson has quickly emerged as one of college basketball’s most exciting freshmen with his continued growth and success on the court, and is poised to make a lasting impact in North Carolina.