Jaren Jackson Jr. is one of the most exciting young stars in the NBA. Known for his shot-blocking, versatility, and high energy, he’s become a centerpiece for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Fans love his passion on the court and his dedication to improving every season. Jackson’s profile is bigger than ever, with impressive stats, a major contract, and a growing influence both on and off the court.
Let’s get to know Jaren Jackson Jr.-from his personal life and early days to his career highlights, financial success, and more.
Jaren Jackson Jr.’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jaren Walter Jackson Jr. |
| Date of Birth | September 15, 1999 |
| Age | 25 |
| Education | Michigan State University |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) |
| Weight | 242 lbs (110 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2018 |
| Net Worth | $133,567,473 |
| Salary | $25,257,798 |
| Career Earnings | $104,720,000 (contract), $110,154,078 |
| Wife/Husband | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | @jaren (official handle, check for updates) |
| Twitter Profile | @jarenjacksonjr (official handle, check for updates) |
Early Career
Jaren Jackson Jr. was born on September 15, 1999, in Plainfield, New Jersey. Basketball was always in his blood-his father, Jaren Jackson Sr., played in the NBA and later became a coach, and his mother, Terri Jackson, is a leader in women’s basketball. Growing up surrounded by the game, Jaren’s love for basketball started early.
He began his high school basketball journey at Park Tudor School in Indianapolis. There, he played varsity for three years, averaging 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 blocks per game. His impact was immediate, helping his team win two Indiana state championships. Playing alongside talented teammates like Trevon Bluiett, Jaren learned what it took to win and lead on the court.
For his senior year, Jaren transferred to La Lumiere School in La Porte, Indiana, a powerhouse in high school basketball. At La Lumiere, he played with future NBA players like Jordan Poole. The competition was fierce, but Jaren’s skills stood out. He became known for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and ability to score both inside and out. His performances caught the eyes of scouts and college coaches across the country.
Jaren’s talent was recognized nationally. He was ranked among the top 10 players in the 2017 graduating class by major recruiting services. He was invited to the prestigious McDonald’s All-American Game, a showcase for the best high school talent in the country. College programs lined up to recruit him, but Jaren chose Michigan State University, drawn by its basketball tradition and legendary coach Tom Izzo.
Professional Career
Jaren Jackson Jr. entered the 2018 NBA Draft as one of the top prospects. The Memphis Grizzlies selected him with the fourth overall pick, seeing his potential as a modern big man who could defend, shoot, and run the floor. From the start, Jaren made an impact with his athleticism, length, and basketball IQ.
In his rookie season (2018-19), Jaren played 58 games, starting 56, and averaged 13.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game. He quickly earned a reputation as a shot-blocker and defensive anchor. His ability to stretch the floor with three-point shooting made him a unique weapon for the Grizzlies.
The following season, Jaren continued to develop. He averaged 17.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in 57 games. His offensive game expanded, and he became more confident as a scorer. Unfortunately, injuries limited his playing time, but he remained a key part of Memphis’s young core.
Despite a shortened 2020-21 season due to injury, Jaren bounced back strong in 2021-22. He played 78 games, averaging 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, and an impressive 2.3 blocks per game. That year, he led the NBA in blocks, showcasing his elite rim protection. Jaren’s defense was a game-changer, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Defensive First Team and finishing fifth in Defensive Player of the Year voting.
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The 2022-23 season was a breakout year for Jaren. He averaged 18.6 points, 6.8 rebounds, and a league-leading 3.0 blocks per game. His dominance on defense was recognized as he won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award and earned his first NBA All-Star selection. Jaren’s leadership and energy helped the Grizzlies become one of the top teams in the Western Conference.
Jaren Jackson Jr.’s Net Worth Details
Jaren Jackson Jr.’s net worth is estimated to be $133,567,473 as of 2025.
Contract
Jaren Jackson Jr. is currently playing under a four-year, $104,720,000 contract extension with the Memphis Grizzlies, which he signed in October 2021. This deal is fully guaranteed and keeps him with the team through the 2025-26 NBA season. The contract pays him an average annual salary of $26,180,000, reflecting his status as one of the league’s top young big men.
Jackson’s contract not only secures his financial future but also demonstrates the Grizzlies’ commitment to building their team around his defensive presence and versatile skill set. He is set to become an unrestricted free agent in the summer of 2026, giving both him and the team flexibility for the future.
Salary
For the 2024-25 NBA season, Jaren Jackson Jr. is earning a base salary of $25,257,798 with the Memphis Grizzlies. This substantial salary reflects his value as one of the team’s cornerstone players and a premier defender in the league.
As part of his four-year contract extension, his annual earnings have steadily increased, placing him among the highest-paid players on the Grizzlies roster. Jackson’s salary not only rewards his on-court performance and leadership but also highlights the team’s confidence in his continued growth and impact as a franchise player.
Career Earnings
| Year | Basic Salary | Total Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 2018-19 | $5,915,040 | $5,915,040 |
| 2019-20 | $6,494,513 | $6,494,513 |
| 2020-21 | $7,257,360 | $7,257,360 |
| 2021-22 | $9,180,560 | $9,180,560 |
| 2022-23 | $28,946,605 | $28,946,605 |
| 2023-24 | $27,102,202 | $27,102,202 |
| 2024-25 | $25,257,798 | $25,257,798 |
| 2025-26 | $23,413,395 | $23,413,395 |
NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MIN | PTS | FG% | 3P% | FT% | REB | AST | BLK | STL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018-19 | MEM | 58 | 56 | 26.1 | 13.8 | .506 | .359 | .766 | 4.7 | 1.1 | 1.4 | 0.9 |
| 2019-20 | MEM | 57 | 57 | 28.5 | 17.4 | .469 | .394 | .747 | 4.6 | 1.4 | 1.6 | 0.7 |
| 2020-21 | MEM | 11 | 4 | 23.5 | 14.4 | .424 | .283 | .833 | 5.6 | 1.1 | 1.6 | 1.1 |
| 2021-22 | MEM | 78 | 78 | 27.3 | 16.3 | .415 | .319 | .823 | 5.8 | 1.1 | 2.3 | 1.1 |
| 2022-23 | MEM | 63 | 63 | 28.4 | 18.6 | .506 | .355 | .788 | 6.8 | 1.0 | 3.0 | 1.0 |
| 2023-24 | MEM | 66 | 66 | 32.2 | 22.5 | .444 | .320 | .808 | 5.5 | 2.3 | 1.6 | 1.6 |
| 2024-25 | MEM | 58 | 58 | 29.8 | 22.2 | .488 | .375 | .781 | 5.6 | 2.0 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
| Career | 391 | 382 | 28.3 | 17.8 | .467 | .348 | .791 | 5.5 | 1.4 | 2.0 | 1.0 |
FAQs
1. Who is Jaren Jackson Jr. and what position does he play?
Jaren Jackson Jr. is an American professional basketball player who plays as a power forward and center for the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA. He is known for his defensive skills, shot-blocking ability, and versatility on both ends of the court.
2. When and where was Jaren Jackson Jr. born?
Jaren Jackson Jr. was born on September 15, 1999, in Plainfield, New Jersey, United States. He began his basketball journey in Indiana before becoming a standout player at the high school and college levels.
3. Which college did Jaren Jackson Jr. attend and what were his achievements there?
Jaren Jackson Jr. attended Michigan State University for the 2017–2018 season. He was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year, Freshman of the Year, and made the All-Big Ten Third Team and All-Freshman Team before declaring for the NBA draft after one season.
4. When was Jaren Jackson Jr. drafted into the NBA and by which team?
Jaren Jackson Jr. was selected with the fourth overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NBA Draft by the Memphis Grizzlies. He has played for the Grizzlies since entering the league.
5. What are some of Jaren Jackson Jr.’s notable career achievements in the NBA?
Jaren Jackson Jr. has been named an NBA All-Star, won the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, and led the league in blocks per game for two consecutive seasons. He is recognized as one of the top rim protectors in the league.
6. What is Jaren Jackson Jr.’s nickname and why is he called that?
Jaren Jackson Jr. is nicknamed “The Block Panther” because of his elite shot-blocking skills and defensive presence on the court. He is also referred to as “JJJ” and “The Alliteration.”
7. What high schools did Jaren Jackson Jr. attend, and what success did he have there?
Jaren Jackson Jr. attended Park Tudor School in Indianapolis, where he won two state championships and averaged strong stats. He later transferred to La Lumiere School in Indiana for his senior year, where he played alongside other future college and professional players.
8. What is Jaren Jackson Jr.’s current contract with the Memphis Grizzlies?
Jaren Jackson Jr. is on a four-year, $104,720,000 contract with the Memphis Grizzlies, fully guaranteed. His average annual salary is over $26 million, and he is set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026.
9. Has Jaren Jackson Jr. suffered any significant injuries during his career?
Jaren Jackson Jr. underwent surgery to repair a stress fracture in his right foot in June 2022, which sidelined him for several months. He returned to play later that season and continued to perform at a high level.
10. How was Jaren Jackson Jr. rated as a high school recruit?
Jaren Jackson Jr. was highly regarded as a high school recruit, ranked among the top 10 players nationally by major recruiting services. He was invited to the McDonald’s All-American Game and received offers from several top college programs before choosing Michigan State.
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