Memphis Grizzlies’ Jaren Jackson Jr. talks support at basketball camp
Jaren Jackson Jr. was joined by many people in his support system at his third annual basketball camp in Memphis on Saturday.
Jackson is recovering from a turf toe injury and says he is progressing well, though he did not commit to a return date.He emphasized the importance of parental support to the campers and considers Memphis his home.The camp’s motto, which Jackson taught the children, is: “They can’t guard me.”
Jaren Jackson Jr. was on the second level of the Memphis Sports and Events Center, making his way to where kids were on the gym floor below him.
The kids spotted Jackson and immediately started cheering and clapping. He raised his arms, encouraging them to get louder as he made his way down, tapping every child’s hand.
That infectious energy carried over as the Memphis Grizzlies star hosted his third annual basketball camp in Memphis on Sept. 13.
When Jackson first grabbed the microphone, he asked the kids who have attended his camp in previous years to raise their hands. More than 20 went up, and Jackson asked if they remembered the camp motto.
The room was quiet before one kid’s hand went up, and Jackson proceeded to remind the rest of the campers.
“ ‘They can’t guard me,’ and that’s what I want them to walk away knowing in their heart,” he said.
Kids ages 6 to 16 participated in drills on different courts. Jackson watched closely as they battled in one-on-one drills.
Grizzlies wing Jaylen Wells was in attendance, as were Jackson’s parents, which was part of the message he wanted to communicate.
“I hope the kids walk away here knowing that the parents are the reason why they got here,” Jackson said. “The parents are going to support you no matter what.”
Jaren Jackson Jr. injury update
Jackson moved around freely at his camp. The two-time Grizzlies All-Star needed foot surgery in early July after suffering a turf toe injury. The team’s timeline puts Jackson’s re-evaluation period close to when preseason camp opens in late September.
“I’m feeling good,” Jackson said. “I’m progressing the right way. I’m doing what I need to do. Every day has been a building block.”
His words bode well for his readiness in the early part of the season. Once he is re-evaluated, he likely will start ramping up for the season. Right now, he would have roughly three weeks before the season begins on Oct. 22 at home against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Jackson wouldn’t commit to being back for the season opener, but he is encouraged by his progress.
“I’m aiming for whatever my body is telling me, but I’m progressing the right way,” he said. “I think everybody is going to be happy.”
Memphis is home
The offseason isn’t Jackson’s favorite part of the year, he admits. He’d much rather be enduring the grind of an NBA season.
One thing he does love, though, is getting a chance to do more in the Memphis community. Now that he is entering his eighth season with the Grizzlies, he considers the city home.
“It’s always important to do stuff in the place that you’re from,” Jackson said. ” . . . I’ve lived here longer than any place in my life, so can’t take that from me.”
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Contact Damichael at damichael.cole@commercialappeal.com. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.