For Northern California basketball fans, especially those of the Sacramento Kings, Bobby Jackson was a fan favorite in the first half of last decade that culminated in him winning the NBA Sixth Man of the Year Award in the 2003 season. After being traded following the 2005 season, "Action Jackson" eventually made his way back to Sacramento where he retired from the NBA in 2009 and is now an assistant coach for the Kings. Known as a high energy player, Jackson's son, Kendrick Jackson, is the sequel.
At 6-foot-3 and 170 pounds, the younger Jackson is already taller and has a more ideal frame than his father. The 2015 prospect out of Granite Bay was called up to varsity towards the second half of the season and became a mainstay in the rotation.
During the summer, Jackson plays for his Spirit Got Game Elite club. Jackson works on all aspects of his game during the offseason. At the early spring events, Jackson has showcased a consistent perimeter shot, ability to take the ball to the basket, and just general leadership on his team. He plays with savvy and a very controlled, calm pace that seems beyond what one would expect of a freshman. With his ball handling and perimeter skills, he can run a team as a point guard or point forward if he adds a few more inches.
Spirit Got Game Coach Bruce Robinson elaborates on Jackson's positives, "Kendrick's strengths are shooting the three pointer, shooting from the mid range, getting to the basket, finishing over defenders. He is also a fairly good passer and can find teammates most of the time when open."
Jackson's father went to high school in Salisbury, North Carolina before attending Western Nebraska Community College. He then played for the Minnesota Golden Gophers that included a trip to the Final Four. Thereafter, he was the 23rd pick in the 1997 NBA draft that started a thirteen year career in the league.
When asked about the possibility of playing Division I basketball, the younger Jackson says, "I think it is very competitive and a challenge. It takes hard work to get there and the best of the best college kids are playing in the NCAA. I think it would be great if I could make it to D1 and I know that does not come easy. So, I am going to continue on working hard and staying focused."
Jackson considers his game to be a shorter version of North Carolina Tar Heel Harrison Barnes. Of course, Jackson also incorporates some of his father's game.
"I think I have a couple of basketball moves that are very similar to him," says Jackson. "I get that from my teammates quite often. He teaches me things about the game all the time. So, of course I have learned and taught my self to do things that he did. But once it's said and done, I think I will be the better player. And I know from all his help, and my family's that that's the reason why."
Jackson would like to be a contributor for next season's Granite Bay team as he would like to contribute double digit points. He would like to see his team make a run at sections.
When asked about Jackson's temperament, Robinson states, "On the court, Kendrick is very energetic and shows a lot of emotions to get his team pumped at times. He can also be quite laid back to figure things out when things are not going so smooth on the court. Overall, he is a friendly but shy kid."
For the fans of the original Action Jackson (not the cinematic masterpiece starring Carl Weathers and Sharon Stone) on the basketball hardwood, a sequel may be in the works. Watch for this Grizzly to star in this production in Granite Bay, Calif.
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