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Cal basketball is coming hot off of a fantastic recruiting year and hopes to continue that success by aiming just as high. With his sights set even beyond the coming season, Cuonzo Martin and his coaching staff are searching hard for some next generation talent. One of those targets is four-star hybrid forward, Vance Jackson Jr. (ESPN #51, Scout #64, Rivals #47).
Jackson has a frighteningly broad skillset that puts him among the best small forwards in the nation. He is by no means a peak physical specimen at 6'8" and 215 pounds, but he more than makes up for it with his technique. He is highly effective in the post, with shifty footwork and a fade-away jumper reminiscent of Dirk Nowitzki.
An area of concern for Jackson in the paint is related to his build, namely his rebounding ability. If he gains some more muscle mass, he has the potential to really establish himself down low as a true hybrid forward.
Vance Jackson will visit #Cal during the first weekend in October. October 1-October 4. #Pac12 #CalBasketball
— Ben Parker (@slamdunk406) September 2, 2015
What elevates Jackson above most of his competition is a perimeter shooting ability that is staggering considering his size. He is comfortable from well beyond the line and has near perfect form.
He can definitely work on creating his own opportunities, but he usually enjoys a relatively uncontested shot due to a guard mismatch outside or dropping defenders concerned about bodies in the paint.
Read more on Jackson from Rob's scouting report.
Overall, Jackson is both a forward with a high level of finesse and a consistent outside threat whose range adds a whole new dimension to his playmaking potential. He has experience as a 2-4 player and can develop his game in either direction. That versatility makes him a very attractive target for any team.
It's likely to be a while before Jackson makes his commitment, but Cal is definitely in the running. Both Jackson and his dad have had the opportunity to visit campus and apparently left with very positive impressions.
Just chatted with Vance Jackson Sr: "we do love Cal. It's definitely up there." More on @CalRivals later...
— Lindsay Brauner (@lindzcatharine) May 1, 2015
Other programs fighting hard for Jackson include Connecticut, Maryland, Memphis and USC (via Josh Gershon). He is sitting on six official offers, but is sure to garner more attention during his senior year at Mater Dei Prolific Prep His visit to Cal is coming in early October, with Memphis and UConn also pencilled in.
Scheduled 3 official Visits‼️‼️‼️ CAL Memphis UCONN
— HeVantastic (@VanceJackson1) September 1, 2015