All Tar Heels

UNC Basketball Commit Shuts Down Old Rumor, Explains Nickname

UNC basketball's "Captain Jack" continues to impress, both on and off the floor.

Matt Giles

Photo credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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Our Saviour Lutheran School (N.Y.) senior Ian Jackson is a future UNC basketball player. The five-star guard, No. 10 overall on the 247Sports 2024 Composite, made that abundantly clear at last week's Wootten 150 Camp in Las Vegas, despite months-old persistent rumors that he's considered a flip to St. John's.

In his chat with Rivals' Rob Cassidy, he reconfirmed his commitment. He closed by telling UNC basketball fans, "I'm going to get us a natty. I'm going to get us one."

During that interview (video below), Jackson also broke down the story behind his "Captain Jack" nickname. The explanation seemed to surprise Cassidy, as "Captain Jack" relates to his last name and his pirate-like gait as a child stemming from groin pains.

And his coach is the one who came up with it.

"I used to walk with a limp," he told Cassidy. "You know, like the pirates with the wooden leg."

As for Ian Jackson's play at the talent-rich showcase in Las Vegas, he garnered high praise from Cassidy:

"Jackson turned in the most impressive performance of the camp's first day, as the North Carolina commit showed off his usual elite athleticism and ability to play above the rim while also shooting it well from deep and contributing on the defensive end.

"The 6-foot-5 guard got to his spots with almost no wasted motion...When Jackson's shot is falling, he's one of the more complete offensive weapons in high school basketball..."

Jackson is part of a three-deep 2024 UNC basketball recruiting class that ranks No. 2 in the country, per 247Sports.

USA Team Account on 2024 UNC Commit: 'He's the Captain Now'

Stay tuned to All Tar Heels on SI.com for more UNC basketball recruiting news.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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