Career Timeline of Jaren Jackson Jr.: Major Achievements and Milestones

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Jaren Jackson Jr. made an impact.

Jaren Jackson Jr. (JJJ), is an American professional basketball player for the Memphis Grizzlies. Drafted fourth overall in 2018, he played college basketball for Michigan State. In 2023, Jackson earned his first NBA All-Star selection and won the Defensive Player of the Year award. Known as "the Block Panther", he is celebrated for his outstanding defensive abilities and rim protection, having led the NBA in blocks per game for two straight seasons.

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Full Timeline Career & Achievements

November 10, 2017: Collegiate Debut

On November 10, 2017, Jaren Jackson Jr. made his college debut for Michigan State, recording 13 points and a season-high 13 rebounds in a 98-66 win over North Florida.

January 22, 2018: Season-High Points

On January 22, 2018, Jaren Jackson Jr. scored a then-season-high 21 points, along with 11 rebounds and 6 blocks, in Michigan State's 87-74 victory over Illinois.

June 21, 2018: Drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies

On June 21, 2018, Jaren Jackson Jr. was drafted by the Memphis Grizzlies as the fourth overall pick in the NBA draft, marking the start of his professional career.

July 1, 2018: Signed with the Grizzlies

On July 1, 2018, Jaren Jackson Jr. signed a multi-year, rookie-scale contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, officially joining the team.

2018: Drafted by Memphis Grizzlies

In 2018, Jaren Jackson Jr. was selected by the Memphis Grizzlies with the fourth overall pick of the NBA draft, marking a significant milestone in his career.

December 13, 2019: Career-High 43 Points

On December 13, 2019, Jaren Jackson Jr. scored a career-high 43 points, including 9 three-pointers, in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks.

December 16, 2020: Team Option Exercised

On December 16, 2020, the Grizzlies announced that they had exercised the team option on Jaren Jackson Jr., securing his place on the team.

April 21, 2021: Return After Injury

On April 21, 2021, Jaren Jackson Jr. made his return after recovering from injury, contributing 15 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 blocks in a game against the Los Angeles Clippers.

October 18, 2021: Signed Extension with the Grizzlies

On October 18, 2021, Jaren Jackson Jr. signed a four-year, $105 million extension with the Grizzlies, marking a significant commitment between him and the team.

January 9, 2022: Career-High Rebounds

On January 9, 2022, Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 21 points and tied a career-high with 12 rebounds in a 127-119 win over the Los Angeles Lakers.

January 5, 2023: Season-High Points

On January 5, 2023, Jaren Jackson Jr. achieved a season-high of 31 points, along with ten rebounds and three blocks, in a victory against the Orlando Magic.

2023: FIBA Basketball World Cup

In 2023, Jaren Jackson Jr. participated in the FIBA Basketball World Cup as a member of the United States national team, which finished fourth in the tournament.

2023: NBA All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year

In 2023, Jaren Jackson Jr. was named to his first NBA All-Star team and won the Defensive Player of the Year award, showcasing his talent and defensive prowess.