This would be quite the pairing.
Ian Jackson, a former 5-star recruit and North Carolina Tar Heels standout, was a surprise addition to the transfer portal earlier this week.
A McDonald’s All-American at Our Saviour Lutheran School in the Bronx, New York, Jackson now appears to be trending toward a return to his hometown.
The frontrunner in his recruitment has been a familiar face to Kentucky Wildcats fans. Rick Pitino and St. John’s look to be where Jackson ultimately lands, according to 247 Sports recruiting expert Travis Branham.
“Heading home is the likeliest situation,” Branham said via the College basketball show earlier this week. “St John’s is definitely in the market for guards after losing Deivon Smith, Kadary Richmond, and RJ Luis. I anticipate St John’s will be a big player in this recruitment, probably the team to beat.”
Jackson was the No. 8 overall prospect in 2024 when he committed to UNC over Kentucky. Branham also adds that John Calipari and Arkansas are threats in this recruitment. 247 Sports has him as the No. 7 overall player in the portal and the No. 2 shooting guard.
Branham added that Mark Pope and Kentucky could also join Jackson’s recruitment, but so far, there’s been no reported interest between the two sides.
The Razorbacks and Calipari could end up making a big run for Jackson after losing veteran guard Johnell Davis. Calipari and Co. have two 5-star freshmen on the way but need another veteran in their backcourt.
Jackson ended the season on the All-Freshman ACC team after averaging 11.9 points and 2.7 rebounds while shooting 45.6% from the field and 39.5% from behind the arc. He will be a major addition for any team that is able to land him.
While Kentucky could use another shooter, it looks like Jackson’s next destination may already be set.