Santi Aldama supports GG Jackson

Everyone needs an occasional confidence boost from time to time. Whether it’s a friend or a professional peer in a high field, just listening to the support of others can help a player. GG Jackson knows this all too well after years with the consistently inconsistent Memphis Grizzlies and some recent trade rumor news. And so now hot Santi Aldamawho greeted his younger teammate after a great night that came out of nowhere against the Utah Jazz.

Fortunately for an undermanned Tuomas Iisal, Jackson had 18 points, nine rebounds, one assist and one block while shooting an efficient 7-9 over 30 minutes in Utah. A surprise return to the rotation and subsequent explosion against the Jazz painted a picture of a player who remains ready. Aldama he didn’t hold back in his assessment of Jackson’s return.

“(Jackson) did a great job,” Aldama began. “It’s not easy being with the team for a little bit, going to the G-League for a little bit. The fact that he was composed, let him play and played super hard was great. He was a big factor in (the win over the Jazz). I’m very happy for him and it’s good to see him progress.”

However, the road this season has been anything but smooth. After a promising rookie campaign (14.6 points and 4.1 rebounds per game), the South Carolina alum’s role has diminished significantly. He averaged just 4.4 points and 2.5 rebounds in 9.6 minutes per game in 10 appearances this season. His journey was characterized by frequent changes between the NBA roster and the Memphis Hustle of the G League.

Aldama’s words go beyond the standard post-match platitudes. They serve as intentional support, attesting to the mental strain Jackson endured. For a young player hovering around the fringes of the roster while hearing whispers of potential trades, confidence is both the most vulnerable and the most important asset.

That performance on Dec. 23 against the Jazz was a stark contrast to those struggles. It was also another small glimpse into Jackson’s potential, making the surrounding trade speculation all the more poignant. It remains to be seen whether the 2023 first-round pick will remain in Memphis after any potential trade deadline moves, but his recent performance and the support of his teammates suggest the young wing makes a compelling case for a spot in the team’s plans.

Still, GG Jackson’s progress, as noted by Santi Aldama, appears to be heading in the right direction at a crucial time. Tuomas Iisal’s Grizzlies can use that youthful energy now, even if he isn’t around for the next NBA playoff run.