The Phoenix Suns added another piece to their young core, taking Kansas forward Josh Jackson with the fourth pick in the NBA draft.

Jackson averaged 16.3 points, 7.4 rebounds and 3 assists at Kansas.

Jackson is cut from a similar cloth of fellow former Jayhawk Andrew Wiggins. Jackson is among the best pure athletes in the class. While his jump shot is concerning, he showed signs of life down the stretch. His free-throw percentage (57) is also reason for pause.

If Jackson becomes even an average shooter, he could be a Jimmy Butler-like impact player. He’s been an expected top-five selection since his senior year of high school.

Phoenix is a logical spot for Jackson. He can be the wing defender they’ve lacked while pairing with Devin Booker to form one of the better young, complementing duos in the NBA.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Hawks guard Caris LeVert (3) attempts a shot against Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (22) during the second half at State Farm Arena, Monday, February, 24, 2025, in Atlanta. The Hawks won 98-86. (Jason Getz / AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz / Jason.Getz@ajc.com

Featured

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, D-Ga., has asked the Trump administration to reinstate funding for a program that benefited agricultural students at historically Black universities like Fort Valley State.

Credit: Screenshot