Indiana basketball star Trayce Jackson-Davis focused on the bigger picture after an NCAA Tournament loss to Miami on Sunday marked the official close of his accomplished college career.
The 23-year-old is the all-time program leader in rebounds and blocks and ranks third in points. His lasting impact on the Hoosiers community will not be forgotten. And their impact on him has left an indelible mark as well.
“It's always Glory to the man above. Thank you Indiana Basketball for everything and welcoming me into your family,” Jackson-Davis Tweeted in his heartfelt farewell to the team and renowned fan base. “I wore that jersey with pride every time I stepped on the court. We went through some tough times, but this place is only going to get better. – Love TJD.”
The 6-foot-9 forward was part of a Hoosiers resurgence under head coach Mike Woodson, having earned NCAA Tournament bids in each of the last two seasons after a four-season drought (might have gone dancing in COVID-cancelled 2020). He was a dominant force in the low post on both sides of the ball and averaged career-high numbers nearly all across the board this season.
His 20.9 points, 10.8 rebounds and 2.9 blocks per game catapulted him to consensus first-team All-American honors this season. It was his improved playmaking, though, that will be particularly intriguing to scouts ahead of the 2023 NBA Draft in June. Jackson-Davis more than doubled his assists totals with four per game. Tutelage from a former NBA coach like Woodson could be invaluable during team interviews and workouts.
He is currently expected to go somewhere in the second round. The four-year Hoosier has time to persuade executives that is soft touch around the rim and intangibles more than compensate for his nonexistent perimeter game.
For now, though, both Jackson-Davis and Indiana basketball fans deserve some time to relish in his success and the progress the program has made the last few years.
Hopefully more will follow for both.
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