Gregory “GG” Jackson II Bio
Gregory “GG” Jackson II is an American professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on December 17, 2004, in Columbia, South Carolina, Jackson has quickly established himself as one of the most promising young talents in professional basketball. After an impressive high school career at Ridge View High School and a standout freshman season at the University of South Carolina, Jackson entered the 2023 NBA draft and was selected with the 45th overall pick by the Memphis Grizzlies. His rookie season with the Grizzlies earned him NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors in 2024, and he set multiple NBA records as the youngest player to achieve several statistical milestones.
Early Life and Background
Gregory Jackson II grew up in Columbia, South Carolina, where he attended Ridge View High School. From an early age, Jackson demonstrated exceptional basketball abilities that set him apart from his peers. His combination of size, skill, and basketball intelligence made him a dominant force in high school competition. Jackson worked diligently on his game throughout his adolescent years, developing the versatile skill set that would later define his professional career.
During his sophomore season at Ridge View High School, Jackson averaged 15.8 points and 10 rebounds per game, helping the team win the South Carolina Class 5A State Championship. His continued development led to an even more impressive junior season, where he averaged 22.1 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. These outstanding statistics earned him the South Carolina Basketball Gatorade Player of the Year award, and he led the Blazers to a second consecutive state championship. His high school career positioned him as one of the most highly sought-after prospects in the country.
Path to Basketball
Jackson was rated as a five-star recruit and was recognized as the consensus best collegiate prospect for the 2023 recruiting class. His recruitment attracted attention from major college programs across the nation, including Auburn, Duke, Georgetown, and his home-state South Carolina. Shortly after completing his junior season of high school, Jackson initially committed to play college basketball at the University of North Carolina (UNC), one of the most prestigious basketball programs in the country.
However, Jackson later made the significant decision to decommit from UNC, becoming the first player to do so since J. R. Smith in 2003. He ultimately reclassified to the class of 2022 and enrolled at the University of South Carolina a year early. This decision proved transformative, as Jackson’s commitment made him the highest-ranked recruit in South Carolina school history. His arrival generated considerable excitement among fans and analysts who recognized his potential to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level.
Gregory “GG” Jackson II Career
College Career (2022–2023)
Jackson entered his freshman season at the University of South Carolina as the Gamecocks’ starting power forward. He made an immediate impression during the opening week of the season, earning Southeastern Conference (SEC) Freshman of the Week honors after averaging 15 points and nine rebounds in his first two career games. His early success demonstrated his ability to compete at the Division I level against older, more experienced players.
The season included its share of challenges, including a difficult game against Tennessee where Jackson shot 0-for-8 and failed to score. However, he responded resiliently, scoring 16 points off the bench in a victory against Kentucky. Jackson finished the season as the Gamecocks’ leading scorer with 15.4 points per game, showcasing his consistency and offensive capabilities. Following the conclusion of his freshman season, he entered the 2023 NBA draft to pursue his professional basketball dreams.
Professional Breakthrough (2023–2024)
Jackson was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the 45th overall pick in the second round of the 2023 NBA draft. He subsequently joined the Grizzlies for the 2023 NBA Summer League, where he began adapting to the professional game. On August 31, 2023, Jackson signed a two-way contract with the Grizzlies, allowing him to split time between the NBA roster and their NBA G League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle.
Extensive injuries to the Grizzlies roster during the 2023-24 season led to the team recalling Jackson from the Hustle, presenting him with an expanded opportunity. On February 8, 2024, Jackson scored a then-career-high 27 points during a 118-110 loss to the Chicago Bulls, demonstrating his offensive capabilities. The following day, the Grizzlies signed Jackson to a four-year contract, reflecting the organization’s confidence in his abilities and potential.
Memphis Grizzlies Era (2023–Present)
Jackson made his first career start for the Grizzlies on March 10, 2024, against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In that game, he scored 30 points in a 124-93 loss, showing his ability to contribute significantly even in difficult circumstances. Eight days later, on March 20, Jackson scored 35 points with seven three-point shots made in a 137-116 loss to the Golden State Warriors. This performance made him the youngest player in NBA history to make seven three-pointers in a single game, establishing him as a rising star in the league.
On April 14, 2024, in the regular season finale, Jackson scored a career-high 44 points and recorded 12 rebounds in a loss to the Denver Nuggets. This extraordinary performance made him the youngest player in NBA history to record 40 points and 10 rebounds in a game. His 44 points also set the record for the most points by a rookie in Grizzlies franchise history. These achievements earned him NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors for the 2024 season. On August 27, 2024, Jackson suffered a broken right foot and underwent surgery on September 4, which delayed the start of his 2024-25 season by several months.
Playing Style and Strengths
Jackson plays the small forward and power forward positions for the Memphis Grizzlies. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches (2.06 meters) and weighing 210 pounds (95 kilograms), he possesses the size to compete inside while demonstrating the perimeter skills of a guard. His ability to score from both inside the paint and beyond the three-point line makes him a versatile offensive weapon. His basketball IQ, developed through years of elite competition, allows him to make smart decisions with the ball and contribute across multiple statistical categories.
Notable Events and Milestones
Jackson’s rookie season was defined by historic achievements. He became the youngest player in NBA history to make seven three-pointers in a single game and the youngest to record 40 points and 10 rebounds in a game. His 44-point performance against the Denver Nuggets set the Grizzlies franchise record for most points by a rookie. These accomplishments, combined with his NBA All-Rookie Second Team selection, established Jackson as one of the most promising young players in the league.
Gregory “GG” Jackson II Career Highlights
Throughout his young career, Jackson has accumulated notable achievements across high school, college, and professional competition. His rapid ascent through the basketball ranks demonstrates his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport.
NBA Highlights
During his rookie NBA season, Jackson appeared in multiple games for the Memphis Grizzlies and established several NBA records. His 44-point performance against the Denver Nuggets stands as the highest-scoring game by a rookie in Grizzlies franchise history. The recognition as NBA All-Rookie Second Team in 2024 validated his contributions during his first professional season despite joining the team mid-season due to roster injuries.
College and High School Achievements
At the University of South Carolina, Jackson earned SEC All-Freshman Team honors in 2023 after leading the Gamecocks in scoring with 15.4 points per game. In high school, he won two South Carolina Class 5A State Championships with Ridge View High School and was named the South Carolina Basketball Gatorade Player of the Year. He also represented the United States at the 2022 FIBA Under-18 Americas Championship in Mexico.
Gregory “GG” Jackson II Family
Family Background
Jackson comes from Columbia, South Carolina, where he attended Ridge View High School. His basketball career has been supported by his family throughout his development from youth basketball through his professional career.
Personal Life
As a young professional athlete, Jackson focuses on his development and career while managing the demands of NBA competition. He continues to maintain connections to his South Carolina roots and represents his hometown region with pride. Jackson actively engages with fans through social media platforms.
2025 Season Performance
The 2024-25 season began with Jackson recovering from a broken right foot suffered in August 2024, which required surgery in September. This injury delayed his return to gameplay by several months, presenting a significant challenge early in his second professional season. The Memphis Grizzlies organization provided support during his rehabilitation process.
Upon his return to the lineup, Jackson aimed to build upon his rookie season achievements while adapting to the demands of a full NBA schedule. His combination of youth, talent, and professional experience positioned him as a key component of the Grizzlies’ future plans. The team looked to integrate him effectively as he regained his conditioning and rhythm following the injury.
The partnership between Jackson and the Memphis Grizzlies represents a significant investment for both parties. With his four-year contract secured and his potential recognized through early career achievements, Jackson has the opportunity to continue developing into an impactful NBA player. The 2025 season served as an important chapter in his ongoing development as he worked to establish himself as a consistent contributor for years to come.