It’s no secret that Duke doesn’t have much depth when it comes to their bench, but there is one person who has stepped up big time with injuries rearing its ugly head… freshman powerhouse, Frank Jackson.
Jackson who has been increasingly seeing more action since Grayson Allen’s injury, has been the go to guy Coach K needed. Jackson today had an impressive game with 20pts, 3rbds and perfect from behind the arch. Jackson who is finally beginning to see his star shine, has the ability to now be properly coached by Coach K who missed the chance to develop him early due to back surgery. But there is no better time than now to prepare this kid for the big stage. In today’s post game conference, Jackson was asked about his increased role on the team and the confidence it takes to play in this tournament,
You know, it’s huge. I think we can really roll off this win and keep going. For me, I always try to stay aggressive. I like to score the ball. It’s what I do best. I’m lucky to have a coach who allows me to be myself and players that I’m surrounded by that give me all the confidence in the world. So I just try to attack early and stay aggressive, and all that carries throughout the game.
Jackson remains confident in the word “aggressive”. It’s a word echoed throughout his interviews and his play on the court.
For me, I try to attack earlier in the game so I get going a little bit earlier. I just try to keep attacking and look for the open shot and look for my teammates as well.
But for Duke fans, what’s more shocking, Jackson becoming a phenomenon for Duke or him possibly being needed more than Grayson Allen? Thankfully, I can provide an alternative to both questions. When speaking with colleagues throughout the tournament, Adam Gold of 99.9The Fan in Raleigh, NC, might have given Coach K the recipe he needs… start Jackson over Matt Jones when Allen becomes healthy…
” Matt Jones isn’t giving them anything; His shooting is gone, he’s not a great defender and with his performance today, I wouldn’t start him much longer. If Allen is healthy during the tournament, I would give the start back to Allen and start Jackson over Jones. Coach K said it, if Duke is to go far, Jackson is needed.”
If you’re Coach K, what route would you take?
