Rickea Jackson’s rookie year was full of runway looks and straight buckets. The Los Angeles Sparks small forward had an underrated WNBA debut, but after consistent effective games, it’s safe to say she’s on the rise.
Jackson averaged 13.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game during the 2024 regular season (Sparks missed the playoffs).
The 23-year-old has not only held her head high in every game but also contributed significantly to the growth of the league last season. Jackson is among the many 2024 rookies that have made a mark in the WNBA.
As the No. 4 overall pick, longtime supporters of Jackson already knew she was a force to be reckoned with. Her performance at the University of Tennessee (2022-2024) and Mississippi State University (2019-2022) left a lasting impression, solidifying her as a standout player.
It’s not too late to join the ranks of Jackson’s supporters. If you do, here’s what you should know about the small forward.
Rickea Jackson is a native of Detroit, Michigan.
“Don’t play with that girl; she’s not one of them.”
She led her Detroit high school basketball team to three consecutive Class C state titles, averaging 22 points and 6 rebounds per game her senior year.
Honors and leading scorer (aka a walking bucket)
Jackson earned Michigan Miss Basketball honors, selected to the McDonald’s All-American Game and Jordan Brand Classic.
In addition, she was also named Michigan Gatorade Player of the Year twice. She even made history as her school’s all-time leading scorer, with 1,771 points.
A five-star recruit with the world in her hands
Jackson committed to Mississippi State University and wasted no time making her mark on college basketball. She averaged 15.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game during her freshman year.
More honors came rolling in, beginning with second-team All-Southeastern Conference (SEC) and All-Freshman.
Jackson’s dominance at Tennessee State University
After entering the transfer portal, Jackson took her talents to Tennessee. In her senior year, she averaged 9.2 points and 6.1 rebounds per game.
Photo credit: WNBA/Instagram @r.ckea
