Kansas State pursuing Jackson

OVERLAND PARK, Kans. -- Junior combo guard Darien Jackson of Overland Park (Kans.) Blue Valley Northwest may not be a household name in the recruiting world. However, the No. 134 ranked player in the 2017 Rivals150 is developing quite a reputation throughout the Midwest.

Rivals.com was out to see the explosive 6-foot-2 athlete last weekend and it was easy to see why he’s earned offers from Kansas State, UTEP, Illinois State, Tulsa, Weber State, Stephen F. Austin and others. He’s also received additional interest from Creighton, Kansas, Nebraska, Cincinnati, Iowa, Arkansas and Drake.

He is active on the glass, a good defender and his first step and bounce make him a tough guy to contain off the dribble. He’s also developed into a pretty reliable three-point jump shooter.

After sitting out his sophomore season due to transfer rules, Jackson is making the most of his opportunity.

IN HIS OWN WORDS: “The team that I’m with, a lot of us have been together for a long time. It’s fun to finally get to play with them on the varsity level. Right now, I’m focused on my game and working on my defense and more on my shooting. With our coach, we shoot the ball all the time in practice and he’s on us to keep getting better there.”

WHAT’S NEXT?: Last summer, Jackson was one of the more consistent performers on the 16U level of Under Armour’s Association. While he put up big numbers with KC Run GMC, Jackson is still looking to get the greater exposure that comes with a move up to the 17U level.

During the fall, Jackson hit Creighton, Nebraska and Kansas State for unofficial visits and he’s hoping to take a few more before seeing what interest he gets in the April evaluation periods.

RIVALS REACTON: Jackson hasn’t yet named any favorites, but Kansas State has made him a priority since last summer and have put themselves in good position early.