Indiana basketball has intensified its recruitment efforts for the 2026 class with the announcement that four-star wing Sammy Jackson has narrowed his college choices to four finalists and scheduled a commitment date. The 6-foot-7, 185-pound prospect from Roman Catholic High School in Philadelphia is set to visit Bloomington on June 13–14, 2025, as part of his decision-making process .
Recruitment Overview
Jackson has been a standout player for both Roman Catholic and Team Final in the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League (EYBL). During his junior season, he averaged 13.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, leading his high school team to the PIAA 6A championship game. His performance earned him second-team All-State honors in Class 6A .
In the EYBL, Jackson showcased his versatility, averaging 13 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.3 steals per game during the first session. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute across various facets of the game has made him a highly sought-after recruit.
Finalists and Commitment Timeline
While Jackson has not publicly disclosed all of his finalists, Indiana University is among the schools vying for his commitment. The upcoming visit to Bloomington will provide the Hoosiers coaching staff an opportunity to further engage with Jackson and present their program’s vision. Following the visit, Jackson is expected to make his commitment decision, which will be closely watched by college basketball enthusiasts.
Indiana’s Recruiting Strategy
Under the leadership of first-year head coach Darian DeVries, Indiana has been proactive in recruiting top talent for the 2026 class. The addition of Jackson would bolster the Hoosiers’ wing position and add depth to their roster. DeVries, known for his successful tenure at Drake and West Virginia, has already secured commitments from several transfer players, including Conor Enright, Tucker DeVries, Reed Bailey, Lamar Wilkerson, Jason “Deuce” Drake, and Nick Dorn .
The program’s aggressive recruiting efforts signal a commitment to returning Indiana basketball to national prominence. Securing a commitment from a player of Jackson’s caliber would be a significant step in that direction.
Conclusion
As Sammy Jackson prepares to make his decision, the upcoming visit to Indiana will be a pivotal moment in his recruitment journey. For the Hoosiers, landing a commitment from Jackson would not only enhance their roster but also demonstrate the effectiveness of their recruiting strategy under Coach DeVries. The college basketball community will be watching closely as Jackson’s decision approaches, eager to see where one of the 2026 class’s top prospects will continue his basketball career.
