As Jaren Jackson Jr., standing at an impressive 6-foot-11, made his way down the corridor of Georgian Hills Middle School, heads turned and eyes widened in astonishment. Students leaned forward in their seats, eager to verify the reality of the extraordinary sight before them.
On Wednesday, the Memphis Grizzlies forward engaged with three groups of students at Georgian Hills, delivering backpacks and various supplies as part of the team’s “Grizzlies Goes Back to School” initiative.
After completing this generous act, Jackson took the opportunity to answer questions from the students. Among the inquiries were playful challenges regarding their ability to defend against the Grizzlies’ all-star player. One student boldly claimed he could guard both Jackson and his teammate, Ja Morant.
In the presence of his fellow students, Jackson reached out to Morant via Facetime. “Hey, I have some players here who are unable to defend against me, and they believe they can defend against you as well,” Jackson remarked to Morant. “I simply want you to witness this.” Thus, Jackson initiated the call to Morant. “Come on, that’s not true,” Morant replied in a composed manner.
The questions persisted beyond that initial inquiry. Jackson was asked a wide array of topics, from his journey into basketball to his financial status. In response to the latter, he offered a lighthearted estimate, indicating that his earnings could be anywhere from zero to an infinite figure.
This level of comfort for Jackson in these interactions has been fostered through years of community involvement. He is among the most proactive players of the Grizzlies in community service, with a considerable emphasis on engaging with youth.
The Grizzlies’ leading player conveyed that his engagement with children adds an element of enjoyment to his community initiatives aimed at making a significant difference. On Wednesday, Jackson’s message focused on the necessity of listening to educators, excelling in studies, and cultivating positivity.
“Shaping the minds of the young is vital,” Jackson stated. “Changing perspectives becomes increasingly difficult as one ages. Many of the things I have been taught have reshaped my thinking, and I would be delighted if my efforts could inspire even a single individual during my interactions.”
