![Jaren Jackson, Jr., a Former Michigan State Basketball Player, Aims to Take over the NBA Jaren Jackson, Jr., a Former Michigan State Basketball Player, Aims to Take over the NBA](https://i3.wp.com/images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_4146,h_2332,x_0,y_0/c_fill,w_1440,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/spartan_nation/01hzx6rmd7w17541dx8w.jpg?w=1200&resize=1200,0&ssl=1)
Jaren Jackson Jr. has quickly emerged as one of the NBA’s top defensive units, a testament to his tenure under legendary Michigan State coach Tom Izzo. Standing at a towering 6’10” with a 7’4″ wingspan, Jackson possesses the physical attributes necessary to dominate a defense. However, it was his time at Michigan State that truly honed his skills and instilled in him the defensive ways that make him a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.
Under Coach Izzo’s direction, Jackson developed a deep understanding of defensive principles and a relentless work ethic. Izzo’s emphasis on toughness, discipline and attention to detail laid the foundation for Jackson’s defensive prowess. Whether it was studying film, perfecting his footwork or mastering the art of rim protection, Jackson embraced all aspects of the defensive game with unwavering dedication.
At Michigan State, Jackson showed his versatility on the defensive end. He could defend multiple positions, seamlessly switch on screens and disrupt passing lanes with his length and agility. His ability to protect the rim and block many shots was particularly impressive, as he became one of the most feared shot blockers in college basketball.
But it wasn’t just Jackson’s physical gifts that made him a defensive standout; It was his intelligence and his instincts on the court. He had a knack for anticipating opponents’ moves, rotating effectively to help his teammates, and making timely defensive plays that tilted momentum in his team’s favor.
Jackson’s defensive talent was on display during his lone season at Michigan State. He averaged an impressive 3.0 blocks per game, earning him the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award and establishing himself as one of the premier rim protectors in college basketball.
Entering the NBA as the fourth overall pick in the 2018 Draft, Jackson wasted no time making an impact on the defensive end. In his rookie season with the Memphis Grizzlies, he showcased his defensive versatility, averaging 1.4 blocks and 0.9 steals per game while anchoring the team’s defense.
Since then, Jackson has only continued to evolve as a defensive force in the NBA. His combination of size, athleticism and basketball IQ, honed during his time with Tom Izzo at Michigan State, has established him as one of the most feared defenders in the league. As he continues to refine his game, the sky is the limit for Jaren Jackson Jr. on the defensive end of the floor.
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