Ian Jackson, the uber-talented freshman, continues making history as a member of the UNC basketball program.
After his 27-point onslaught in a heart-stopping win over Notre Dame today, “Captain Jack” became the first UNC freshman to record four consecutive 20-point games since Tyler Hansbrough. Anytime you’re mentioned in the same sentence as “Psycho T,” you’re in very elite company.
Ian Jackson is the first North Carolina freshman with four straight 20-point games since Tyler Hansbrough in 2005-06.
— Bryan Ives (@awaytoworthy) January 4, 2025
With his 27-point outing, Jackson logs a new career high, besting his 26-point performance from just two games earlier.
Jackson’s freshman campaign has been the brightest spot in an up-and-down North Carolina season. After their win at Notre Dame, the Tar Heels move to 9-6 on the young season and 2-1 in ACC play. In his last four games, Jackson is averaging a blistering 25 points, putting the Tar Heels on his back. Jackson will have a chance to stand alone in Carolina history and extend his 20-point scoring streak to five games versus SMU at home on January 7.
On the season, Jackson now averages 14.9 points per game — second to RJ Davis’ 17.7 points per game. Jackson is also UNC’s most efficient scorer, shooting a deadly 51% from the field and 40% from 3-point range.
Jackson is also ferocious in transition and slashing downhill to the rim. He’s UNC’s best finisher, inviting contact on high-flying jams or weaving through defenders for crafty layups.
If UNC hopes to run the gauntlet in ACC play and make the NCAA Tournament, Jackson needs to be the one leading the way. The Tar Heels are at their best when the freshman phenom has the ball in his hands.