The newest commitment from Illinois’ senior class was Dezmund Jackson. Over the weekend, the 6’4” wing guard of Rock Island High School and the Iowa Barnstorms announced his commitment to University of Illinois Springfield and head coach Matt Brock. Illinois Springfield is a division two program and a member of the Great Lakes Valley Conference. 

Jackson took a visit to the in-state school back on November 15 for their win against Judson. “The players and coaches were very welcoming and positive,” he said about his visit there. “The campus tour was really nice, and I got to see what their game day routine looks like.” 

There was one main aspect that came into the senior’s college decision. When asked why he decided upon Illinois Springfield, Jackson responded “I enjoy how much the coaches seem to care about the players and the environment of the school.” Some of the other schools that were recruiting Jackson included Blackhawk Community College, Coe, Cornell College, Dubuque, and Simpson College. 

“I think I’ll bring a lot of hustle, energy, and teamwork to contribute to the team wherever they need me, both offensively and defensively,” he said about fitting in with them on the court. At Illinois Springfield he will be joining up with former Rock Island High School player Jordan Rice. Rice, currently a junior at Illinois Springfield, is the team’s leader in scoring and assists.