Through the Phog
Fansided

Josh Jackson will make NBA debut in new number

By Stan Unruh

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: Josh Jackson walks to the stage after being drafted fourth overall by the Phoenix Suns during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 22: Josh Jackson walks to the stage after being drafted fourth overall by the Phoenix Suns during the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center on June 22, 2017 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images) /
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One year ago, Kansas basketball fans were just getting to know Josh Jackson. The number 4 pick in last month’s NBA draft has officially signed with Phoenix.

Many Kansas basketball fans expected Josh Jackson to go early in last month’s NBA draft.  I don’t know how he was still available after 3 picks. On the other hand, there is a lot about NBA talent evaluation I will never understand.  The Phoenix Suns are a very fortunate franchise.

I think the Suns understand what having Jackson will mean to this team. They didn’t waste any time getting Jackson’s name on a contract.  The Big12 Freshman of the year for Kansas basketball signed a four-year deal worth an estimated $27M dollars, as Matt Tait reported.

Since the 6-foot 8-inch 20-year-old Jackson is officially under contract, he is practicing with his new teammates. You won’t see him wearing the number 11 he wore during his year with Kansas basketball. Photos on the Sun’s social media page show Jackson wearing number 99.

That is an unusual and interesting choice. I’m sure there is a good reason and maybe he will explain the decision. George Mikan is the only former NBA player I can recall who wore 99. The Hall of Fame Center played for the Lakers in the 40s and 50s. You may also know National Hockey League Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky wore 99. The NFL’s J.J. Watt currently wears 99.

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After a record setting year for Kansas basketball, Jackson has a lot of work ahead of him. He is having fun and more than up to the task. On Friday, Jackson will make his pro debut in the NBA’s Las Vegas Summer League. As a matter of fact, Jackson will face former Kansas basketball teammate Frank Mason’s Sacramento Kings at 7:30 p.m.

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