Head Coach David Carter, Dennis Gates And The University Of Nevada Strike Big In Chicago, And Land 6'8" Class Of 2010 Chicago Hyde Park Star Phillip Jackson


Cavan Walsh
March 19, 2010

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Head coach David Carter, Dennis Gates, and the University of Nevada have scored a major recruiting coup, and have landed Class of 2010 Chicago Hyde Park star Phillip Jackson. Jackson rates as one of the top 2010 basketball prospects in the state of Illinois.

Jackson, a 6'8" post, is a long and athletic big man who has the ability to be a difference-maker on both ends of the basketball court. Jackson, who sat out this season after transferring from Chicago Providence St. Mel to Hyde Park, has long been regarded as one of the elite post prospects in the Illinois Class of 2010.

“I felt after watching them play that they fit my style, and I feel I can help them in the places they need help in. Coach Carter, and the rest of coaching staff is another huge reason I decided to commit. They remind of my support staff in Chicago. I believe they will really look after me out there, and will keep me on the right path. Also, the staff mapped out a plan for my success, and I was on the same page with that plan,” said Jackson, who went on to note, “Nevada has also had recent history of developing post players such as Nick Fazekus and JaVale McGee. I am also looking forward to being a part of that success and history.”

Jackson felt it was the right time to make a decision. “It is nearing the end of high school, so it’s now or never really. Coach Gates has been with me since day one, and has given me a lot of good advice. Nevada offered me a while ago, and both Coach Carter and Coach Gates have stuck with me the whole time. Depending on what road I travel to get to Nevada, I feel they are going to look out for what’s best for me and the team,” said Jackson.

Jackson is relieved to have a decision made on where his ultimate collegiate destination will be. “Yeah, I really feel relieved after making this decision. I can focus on school and getting the grades I need to get in order to attend Nevada without regard to whether it is at Hyde Park, or more than likely a junior college. I understand what I have to do from here on out, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to be a part of the Wolf Pack.”

Jackson selected Nevada over a host of other programs including Marquette, Providence, DePaul, Iowa State, Southern Illinois, Illinois State, Virginia Tech, Tennessee State and Cleveland State.