Through the Phog
Fansided

In any number Josh Jackson will shine in the NBA

By Stan Unruh

GREENBURGH, NY - AUGUST 11: Josh Jackson of the Phoenix Suns poses for a portrait during the 2017 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at MSG Training Center on August 11, 2017 in Greenburgh, New York. 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 Elsa/Getty Images)
GREENBURGH, NY - AUGUST 11: Josh Jackson of the Phoenix Suns poses for a portrait during the 2017 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at MSG Training Center on August 11, 2017 in Greenburgh, New York. 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 Elsa/Getty Images) /
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It’s just a number but Kansas basketball fans will want to know Josh Jackson changed numbers. The former Jayhawk standout had fun on social media with the change.

As a matter of fact, it is difficult at times for Kansas basketball fans to keep track of former Jayhawks. Who is playing where and on what team or were they traded? A number of former Jayhawks are also earning a paycheck playing overseas.  In addition to which team, you need a program to keep track of the player’s number — like Josh Jackson.

Yankee great Mickey Mantle didn’t always wear the #7 the team retired. He originally wore #6. After a brief trip to the minor leagues, someone assigned Mantle the number #7. Most of today’s players in any sport typically select a number. Certainly, a first-round draft pick gets to call the shots over an equipment manager.

Josh Jackson took Tyler’s Self’s #11 for Kansas basketball during the 2016-17 season. The Big 12 freshman of the year chose #99 for his summer league debut with the Phoenix Suns.  I liked the off-the-wall #99  for Jackson. Why not be different?  Number 99 is not a bad number. During a recent photo shoot, Jackson showed off a new number.


I wonder if Jackson thought better of his original choice or did someone in marketing suggest the change? Is there marketing data somewhere on the best numbers for players?  I’m sure someone knows the answers. I’m sure it won’t make a difference a year or two from now.

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Jackson performed well in the Summer league wearing #99. He averaged 17.4 points and 9.2 rebounds in Las Vegas. I expect his role will change when the NBA regular season begins. It won’t matter what number Jackson wears, he will be the league’s top rookie.

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