GG Jackson apologizes for behavior toward coaches, teammates at South Carolina

GG Jackson‘s time at South Carolina most likely did not go as planned. After reclassifying and heading to college early, there were inconsistencies with his game throughout the season. The Gamecocks were not very good either, finishing 10 games below .500 and 4-14 in SEC play. A tough year all around in Columbia.

There were some off-the-court issues with Jackson as well. Tensions may have boiled over at certain parts of the season, with both South Carolina coaches and teammates. Jackson even publically called out the coaching staff before later apologizing.

Before being drafted on Thursday night, Jackson doubled down on his apology. While he will be heading to Memphis, South Carolina is going to follow him no matter where he goes. Last season may have been tough but Jackson will always be a Gamecock.

“I want to apologize again — I don’t know how much I can stress that — for, how at times, I looked,” Jackson said. “How at times I acted toward the coaches and even my teammates. I want people to know that is not me. That’s big-headed GG. I’m little-headed GG right now.

“Thank you for your support and everything. Don’t stop supporting me, no matter what pick it is, because I am bringing South Carolina on my back, no matter where I go.”

Jackson played 32 games in a South Carolina uniform, recording 15.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game. There would be spectacular performances, like a 30-point effort against Auburn with eight rebounds, but also some dreadful ones. Against seven different SEC opponents, Jackson was held under double figures and shot poorly.

Losing can bring the emotions out of people sometimes, especially over the course of an entire season. Being the young buck he is, Jackson was getting frustrated with how things were going. He’s since learned from his mistake, apologized multiple times, and is ready to start a new chapter of his basketball career.

Memphis is where it will begin at the NBA level. Jackson was selected with the No. 45 overall pick, occurring in the second round. A moment he will never forget, being able to share it with some family and friends.

Even so, there was some time to reflect on his past actions — things he is sorry for. South Carolina is clearly a special place to him, wanting to make sure menses were made before heading out. A classy move from Jackson.