The basketball season hasn’t even started and already Bill Self and his staff are off to a hot start – on the recruiting trail that is.
The Jayhawks picked up their third commitment in the 2023 class after receiving a pledge Thursday night from No. 18-ranked prospect Elmarko Jackson (according to 247sports.com).
The 6-foot-3, four-star point guard from South Kent, Connecticut picked KU over offers from Texas, Villanova, Tennessee, UCLA, and others. He recently visited KU last month.
He joins fellow four-star guards Chris Johnson and Jamari McDowell in a recruiting class that is now ranked No. 2 in the Big 12 and No. 8 in the country.
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Shortly following his announcement, Jackson was asked by 247Sports’ Director of Scouting Adam Finkelstein why Kansas was the choice.
"“When it comes to Kansas, it’s pretty hard to beat,” Jackson said. “The coaching staff is great; the winning record is great; coach Self and staff are top tier.”"
Jackson also spoke about wanting to be a part of a program that has a chance to go to the Final Four and one that will develop him as a player.
At Kansas, he can very likely find both.
Self has a great track record of developing guards and getting them to the NBA – including Frank Mason, Devonte Graham, Marcus Garrett, Devon Dotson, and others.
And the Jayhawks will almost always be in contention for a Final Four each year thanks to the talent level on the roster and guidance from their Hall of Fame head coach.
Jackson and his future teammates can officially sign with Kansas starting Nov. 9 when the Division I early signing period begins for college basketball.