GG Jackson gets honest assessment amid ‘toughest matches’

Failures can send an organization and a player in two different directions. Either they will regroup and come back stronger than ever, or they will fall by the wayside. The torn apart by the Memphis Grizzlies they are learning this the hard way, as is GG Jackson. Thankfully, the third-year pro is starting to find his way to significant playing time after nearly 18 months of feeling like he’s a little late.

Now the 21-year-old is the first to appear Tuomas Iisalo need a stop.

“Defensively, (Jackson) took on some of the toughest matchups in the league and held his own,” Iisalo noted. “He’s clearly progressing, and I think that’s a source of pride for him. It’s also great to see from him that he’s not happy with where we are as a team or where he is as a player. He wants to improve. That’s ultimately what you want from your young guys and really from everybody.”

Jackson’s personality has always been one of his defining characteristics. His energy and expressiveness are undeniable, but channeling those qualities productively has been key to his development. According to Iisal, the young striker has made significant progress in harnessing his natural exuberance.

“I think (Jackson) has made huge strides,” Iisalo emphasized. “I just mentioned to him after that (Minnesota Timberwolves first) game that I’m very proud of him. Almost his whole approach. GG, if you know him a little bit, he’s a very animated, very extroverted person. And like, that’s a great quality as long as it doesn’t, say, disrupt his focus in the game.”

This animated nature, once a potential distraction, is now used positively. Iisalo noted how Jackson’s refined approach rubs off on teammates and elevating the play of the Grizzlies.

“I think (Jackson) had a lot less upside in these games,” Iisalo admitted. “As far as body language, he’s very focused. He does all the things we talked about in terms of ‘can,’ but he does what the game demands of him. He does a great job driving, shooting, closing and transitioning. He’s a lot more persistent in finishing. If he steps on a guy, he’s got him on his shoulder and then he can finish.”

For the Grizzlies, Jackson’s evolution represents more than the improvement of just one player. It’s a blueprint for how the organization develops young talent, allowing them to maintain their personalities while honing their skills and basketball IQ. Iisal’s approach of celebrating Jackson’s extroverted nature while helping him channel it productively has created an environment in which the young forward can thrive.

By empowering GG Jackson, Iisalo fosters a culture of growth and accountability. It also gives the Grizzlies the best chance to win. Memphis has many faults, of course, but sticking with this investment is worth the risk.