"Blazing the: A Sharpshooter with Fire in His Veins"

Jackson McIntyre

@McIntyreja8378

IG: @Jacksonmcintyre24

5’8, 145 lbs, Class of 2027

Martha Layne Collins HS, KY

Explosive. Crafty. Dynamic. Jackson is explosive, crafty, and dynamic, bringing an undeniable spark to the floor, blending sharpshooting with elite court vision and a motor that never slows down. His game is built on precision and poise, a lethal combination that allows him to dictate the tempo and break down defenses. Whether he's facilitating the offense with thread-the-needle passes or letting it fly from deep, his presence is electric. A marksman from beyond the arc, he stretches defenses with his smooth stroke, ready to punish opponents who give him even a sliver of space. But he’s not just a shooter, he’s a master floor general who embraces pressure, controls the tempo, and keeps his team locked in.

Despite being undersized, Jackson plays with an edge, proving that heart and skill outweigh size. He embraces the challenge of handling full-court pressure, showing off his tight handles and quick decision-making under duress. His ability to navigate traffic, absorb contact, and keep plays alive makes him a valuable weapon. His defensive intensity has taken a leap, showcasing his ability to disrupt passing lanes and make life difficult for ball handlers. His game is evolving, and his hunger to grow is evident in every possession.

Jackson stepped into his role this season as a key role player for Collins, logging minutes in every game and proving himself as a reliable blue collargem in a competitive program. He shot 34.6% from three and 72.7% from the free-throw line. While his scoring numbers weren’t eye-popping, his impact stretched far beyond the box score. His improved court vision and decision-making stood out, cutting down on turnovers and making smarter reads.

Jackson's biggest improvements are his vision and defensive awareness. He has sharpened his ability to scan the floor, make thread-the-needle passes, and avoid unnecessary mistakes. Defensively, he’s taken strides, stepping up his on-ball pressure and showing greater awareness in rotations. But Jackson is not satisfied, knowing there’s still room to take his game up a notch.

This offseason, Jackson is focused on strength and speed, knowing that adding muscle and explosiveness will elevate his game. His primary skill focus is ball-handling. He’s determined to become a shot creator, not just for himself but for his teammates, making him a dual threat in any backcourt.

Jackson is set to take on the Prep Hoops Circuit with Shelby Stars 2027, where he’s looking to make a statement. His goal? To stand out and show that he doesn’t just belong—he can thrive. Competing against top-tier talent fuels him, and this summer is all about proving that he can hold his own against some of the best in the country.

The Grassroots Showcase at the Louisville Expo Center is the event Jackson is looking forward to. The atmosphere, the competition, and the presence of college scouts make it an opportunity he’s eager to seize. The tournament has seen future Di1 stars and even NBA players battle it out, and Jackson is ready to step onto that stage and make his mark.

Jackson thrives in the energy of the game. When his team goes on a run, locking down on defense and converting on the other end, that’s when he’s at his best. The back-and-forth battles, the momentum swings, and the adrenaline drives him to push harder.

Adversity has always been part of Jackson's journey. As an undersized guard, he’s heard the doubts, felt the skepticism, and faced the challenges head-on. But instead of backing down, he’s used it as fuel. He blocks out the noise, trusts his work, and steps on the court with something to prove every single game.

One of the most impactful lessons Jackson has carried with him comes from his coach, Chris Gaither:

"Nothing will ever be given to you. If you want it, you have to go take it."

For Jackson, that extends beyond basketball; it’s a mindset for life. That mentality is what makes Jackson relentless in his pursuit of growth.

Basketball is his passion, but Jackson isn’t all about hoops. Off the court, he enjoys hanging with friends, catching games, or just relaxing. The drive to compete is always there, but he knows the importance of stepping away and enjoying life outside the gym.

I assess that Jackson’s skill set makes him a strong asset for any program looking for a floor-spacing guard who can handle pressure and facilitate an offense. His ability to knock down shots, control tempo, and compete defensively gives him a role at the next level. As he continues to develop his strength and shot-creation ability, his stock will only rise.

Jackson can impact a college team with reliable shooting, smart decision-making, and a fiery competitive spirit that brings energy every time he steps on the floor. His growth as a defender and playmaker will be key in determining his ceiling, but there’s no question about his work ethic or drive to get there.

Looking ahead, Jackson is set to embrace a larger role for next season, eager to lead his team and help make a run at state. With a full offseason dedicated to refining his skill set, adding strength, and competing against high-level talent, expect a stronger, sharper, and more aggressive version of him when he returns to the court.

Jackson's potential is sky-high. As he continues to develop his shot-creating ability and defensive presence, he’ll position himself as a dynamic guard with the ability to impact a game in multiple ways. The foundation is there, the work ethic is unquestionable, and the hunger to prove himself is what will separate him.

This summer is about proving, growing, and making noise. And if history has shown anything, it’s that Jackson McIntyre is ready to rise to the occasion. Stay tuned!