Outgoing SU Senior forward Rick Jackson just wrapped up his successful run in the Portsmouth Invitational Tournament and spoke with reporters on Wednesday at the Carmelo Anthony Basketball Center.
Jackson was happy with his play, and says the countless scouts in attendance were too. Rick says the scouts told him his defensive prowess, which earned him 2011 Big East Defensive Player of the Year honors is what will land him in the NBA. Other than that, Rick says he needs to work on his jump shot, particularly from 16-18 feet away from the hoop.
Jackson was asked if he checks out "mock drafts" like Draft Express or NBADraft.net which don't even project the Philadelphia native to be drafted. Rick says no, because "When you're getting that kind of feedback (the positive reviews from NBA teams) you don't really look at projections because usually, they're coming from noone, really."
Rick admits in a dream scenario he would land with his hometown team the Philadelphia 76ers saying "I read in the paper they're looking for a low-post presence, so if they need me I'm here." Jackson though, says he will work out for 10-12 teams before the June draft.
Jackson will be represented by B.J. Armstrong, and told the media he has sought the advice of past SU players who were drafted like Jonny Flynn, Wes Johnson, and Andy Rautins. Saying that Rautins' advice of being the hardest worker out there will pay off in the end.
