Jackson Finds Gold In Cusa

Cooley · November 6, 2007

I debated long and hard whether I wanted this kid or not. Never saw any prior mention of UNT being in the mix. Anyway, it would have been an ok commitment but I'm not disapointed.

November 5, 2007

Blue Zertuche

TexasHoops.com

6'9" 240-pound post player, Andre Jackson from Dallas Pinkston has always gained looks from recruiters with his big strong build. His time spent on the court the past two summers with Dallas Showtyme opened even more eyes. He has had some ups and downs on the court, but when a Conference USA program comes calling, there must be something unique about a player. Jackson fits the mold with his height and size and has the potential to be an elite player in district 14-4A.

"I got back from my visit to Southern Miss and I committed to them," said Jackson. "I really like the coaches there and the facilities." Jackson never hesitated when making a decision, and though he had other interest, he knew that Southern Miss has everything he needs.

"I had interest from Wichita State, Florida Atlantic, Oral Roberts and North Texas, but I didn't have any official visits lined up. I like the situation at Southern Miss and they are in Conference USA, which means I will play against SMU and University of Central Florida. I have family in both places."

At the moment Jackson is a big-bodied post player and says he will have an opportunity to face the basket more for the Golden Eagles' program. "Right now I play the five, but they coaches want me to be more of a four in college. So I am will immediately start working on my ball handling skills and take more shots from the outside. I need to work hard everyday." Jackson becomes the second Pinkston Viking in as many weeks to give a verbal comittment. He joins shooting guard, Demarius Jones on that list.

"We want to surprise some teams," said Jackson on the upcoming year. "We have a good combination of inside out play with Shug and me. You never know what will happen. We might just be in Austin in March. That's our goal."

Texas Hoops Analysis:ANDRE is a big-bodied paint player who can really take up space and move bodies around in the lane. He works to move the defense under the goal, finishes right around the rim and uses his body to get easy buckets and get under the rim for rebounds. He has the width and strength to set screens and create space for his teammates and he has good hands and feet.