Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies has a very special relationship with Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks.
Not only does Jackson play against Doncic often, but he was also selected right after him in the 2018 NBA draft.
That means he’s been uniquely close to Doncic over the last few years.
In a new interview shared by ClutchPoints on X, Jackson spoke about his first impression of Doncic.
He said that Doncic was a normal guy when he stepped onboard the draft bus, but his talent was soon on full display.
“Everything else has just been insane. He looks like he’s been in the league [for] like 100 years,” Jackson said.
“When he got on the draft bus… It’s like your first time seeing this guy everyone’s talking about, like this myth… Everything else has just been insane. He looks like he’s been in the league [for] like 100 years.”
Jaren Jackson Jr. on Luka Doncic 😅pic.twitter.com/rYor4OExh4
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 26, 2024
The 2018 NBA draft was crowded with incredible talent.
Deandre Ayton was the number one choice and was picked by the Phoenix Suns.
He was followed by Marvin Bagley III, who was selected by the Sacramento Kings.
Then it was time for the Atlanta Hawks to choose, and they drafted Doncic, who would later be sent to the Dallas Mavericks.
Jackson was right behind him in the number four position.
In a draft class full of amazing young players, Doncic was obviously one of the most impressive.
Since being drafted, Doncic has become the face of the Mavericks and has done great things, constantly in contention for MVP and is considered one of the best players in the entire league.
Jackson is no slouch himself and averaged 22.5 points and 5.5 rebounds last season.
He’s a two-time block champion, one-time All-Star, and the 2022-23 Defensive Player of the Year.
Jackson and Doncic are two of the best players in the NBA and they clearly greatly respect one another.
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Video Shows Luka Doncic On Farm In Slovenia