Not long ago, Kyrie Irving was one of the most exciting young guards in the NBA, learning from the likes of Kobe Bryant and LeBron James. Now, at 32, Irving is mentoring some of the NBA's youngest and best players.
Last season, GG Jackson was the NBA's youngest player and the brightest star in an injury-plagued season for the Memphis Grizzlies. At just 19 years old, Jackson averaged 14.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.2 assists on 43/36/75 shooting from the field. In April, he averaged 20.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists on 43/33/74 shooting from the field. Jackson achieved this level of play in his rookie year, but now he's learning even more from one of the NBA's best offensive players.
Footage released by More Than a Run and Ballislife shows Memphis Grizzlies stars GG Jackson and Kyrie Irving getting caught in the rain together at USC this offseason.
Last season, GG Jackson had the opportunity to play 25.7 minutes per game for a Memphis Grizzlies team that was extremely undermanned. He stepped up and thrived in ways no one expected. It remains to be seen if Jackson will get the same opportunity next season when the Grizzlies are much healthier, but his play will contribute to winning basketball games.
Luckily, with some help from Kyrie Irving, GG Jackson should be primed to make a big leap next season.
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