Which country does Jaren Jackson Jr play for?

Jaren Jackson Jr. plays for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA as of April 2025. Standing at 6 feet 10 inches tall, Jaren Jackson Jr, also known as 'JJJ', plays as a power forward. Jackson Jr. was selected as a fourth overall pick in the first round by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2018 NBA Draft. In his rookie season, he averaged 13.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. Jackson Jr. led the Memphis Grizzlies to three playoffs in his career, but the team has fallen short of reaching the Conference Finals. Jaren Jackson Jr. is also a key player for the Grizzlies in defense, as in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, he led the league in blocks per game. However, he is equally valuable on the offensive end, averaging 18.5 points per game as of April 2025.

Before entering the NBA, Jackson went to Michigan State. In the lone season he played for Michigan State, he averaged 10.9 points per game while shooting 51.3% from the field and 39.6% from three-point range. Moreover, Jackson Jr. also recorded 106 blocks during his lone collegiate season.

Jaren Jackson Jr. National Team

While Jaren Jackson Jr.'s primary focus has been on making his mark in the NBA, he has represented his home country, the United States, on the international basketball scene. Jackson Jr. averaged 8.1 points and 2.9 rebounds per game in the seven games he played at the FIBA Men’s World Cup (2023). The team ended up finishing fourth. (via USAB)

Jaren Jackson Jr. Career

Jaren Jackson Jr was born in New Jersey, United States. Having US citizenship, Jackson's journey on the international basketball scene showcases his commitment to his country. His father, Jaren Jackson Sr., won an NBA championship in 1999 with the San Antonio Spurs franchise. He was an early inspiration behind JJJ’s passion for the game. This foundation of basketball knowledge and skills laid the groundwork for his future success in the sport.

Though Jaren played just one season with the Spartans, he showcased his defensive gameplay. Unlike his father, who was a shooting guard by position, taller Jackson Jr played a more forward role for his teams. With his shot-blocking abilities, three-point shooting, and defensive aptitude, JJJ made a huge mark in just 33 games with the Spartans. His performances earned him many accolades, including Freshman of the Year, Big Ten's Defensive Player of the Year, Big Ten's All-Freshman Team, and the All-Big Ten's Third Team. Although he did not win the NCAA title with the Michigan team, JJJ proved himself worthy of entering the bigger league. In the 2018 NBA Draft, he was selected as the fourth overall pick by the Memphis Grizzlies.