BREAKING: Ian Jackson has entered his name into the 2025 NBA Draft while also maintaining his NCAA eligibility…

BREAKING: Ian Jackson has entered his name into the 2025 NBA Draft while also maintaining his NCAA eligibility…

BREAKING: Ian Jackson Declares for 2025 NBA Draft While Maintaining NCAA Eligibility

In a significant move with major implications for both college basketball and the NBA, standout guard Ian Jackson has officially declared for the 2025 NBA Draft while opting to maintain his NCAA eligibility. The decision, announced Wednesday via his social media accounts and confirmed by multiple sources, gives Jackson the flexibility to explore professional opportunities while keeping the door open for a return to college basketball next season.

Jackson, a 6-foot-5 combo guard, has been one of the most electrifying talents in the college basketball landscape. Known for his explosive athleticism, high-level shot-making, and elite defensive potential, he quickly rose as a top prospect during the 2024-25 season. His performances have drawn the attention of NBA scouts, who view him as a potential first-round pick in this year’s draft.

By entering the draft while maintaining eligibility, Jackson will be able to attend the NBA Draft Combine, interview with teams, and receive feedback from front offices. The NCAA allows players to go through this pre-draft process and still return to school, provided they withdraw their name from the draft by the established deadline and do not hire an agent who is not NCAA-certified.

“This is a pivotal time for me and my family,” Jackson wrote in his announcement. “After careful consideration, I’ve decided to enter my name into the 2025 NBA Draft while maintaining my college eligibility. I’m excited to go through this process and get feedback that will help me make the best decision for my future.”

Jackson’s decision is not uncommon in today’s landscape, where players often test the waters to gauge their draft stock and gain insights from NBA teams. However, what makes Jackson’s case especially intriguing is the considerable interest he’s already drawn from NBA personnel. Many insiders believe he could rise significantly on draft boards depending on how he performs in pre-draft workouts and interviews.

If Jackson chooses to return to college, his presence would have a seismic impact on the collegiate scene. Whether he continues with his current program or considers a transfer—now more plausible than ever in the era of the NCAA transfer portal—Jackson’s return would instantly elevate any team to contender status.

For now, all eyes will be on how Jackson fares in the coming weeks as he navigates this critical evaluation phase. The deadline to withdraw from the NBA Draft and retain college eligibility typically falls in early June, giving him ample time to make an informed decision.

Whether he ultimately turns pro or returns to campus, Ian Jackson’s future in basketball looks exceptionally bright. The next chapter of his journey begins now, and it promises to be one of the most watched stories leading up to the 2025 NBA Draft.