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Maryland Basketball: Justin Jackson declares for NBA Draft

By Chris Bengel

Mar 16, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Maryland Terrapins forward Justin Jackson (21) drives against Xavier Musketeers guard Malcolm Bernard (11) during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 16, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Maryland Terrapins forward Justin Jackson (21) drives against Xavier Musketeers guard Malcolm Bernard (11) during the first half in the first round of the NCAA Tournament at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Justin Jackson was one of the key reasons for Maryland’s successful 2016-17 season.

According to Roman Stubbs of The Washington Post, Jackson has declared for the 2017 NBA Draft, but won’t hire an agent. The freshman forward will have until May 24 to withdraw.

Jackson was on the list of 182 players that declared early for the NBA Draft. He can attend individual workouts with NBA teams and participate in the draft combine in May if he is invited.

If Jackson doesn’t wish to remain in the draft pool, he can return to College Park for his sophomore campaign.

The Terrapins have already lost star guard Melo Trimble to the NBA Draft earlier this offseason. Trimble has hired an agent, which means he’ll be playing professionally next season.

Jackson averaged 10.5 points and led the team in rebounds (6.0). The East York, Ontario native also shot a team-high 43.8 percent from beyond the arc.

Draft Express doesn’t currently have Jackson in their 2017 mock draft. However, he’s slotted to go No. 23 in the 2018 draft.

Jackson is ranked as the 10th-best Big Ten prospect in their rankings just behind his former teammate Trimble. Kevin Huerter is ranked as the No. 18 Big Ten prospect and Damonte Dodd comes in at No. 28.

It sounds as though Jackson is planning to test the draft waters and see what kind of feedback he gets. Jackson will likely return to Maryland prior to the May 24 deadline.

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The Terps will certainly get a huge boost if Jackson ends up returning to College Park with the likes of Anthony Cowan and Huerter back in the fold.