Memphis Grizzlies forward GG Jackson is turning heads with his most efficient season yet, thanks to a more aggressive offensive mindset. This transformation is largely due to the persistent encouragement from his teammates, especially Scotty Pippen Jr., who urged Jackson to embrace a more physical style and attack the basket with authority.
Jackson's shooting from the field has reached new heights, and his finishing ability near the rim has significantly improved. Pippen, the 6-foot-2 point guard, couldn't stand to see Jackson's potential go untapped.
He constantly challenged the 6-foot-9 forward, calling him "soft" and pushing him to play stronger. This encouragement extended beyond the court, with discussions on the bench, phone calls, and video sessions focused on making Jackson a more forceful offensive player.
The results are clear. Jackson is embracing this new approach, and his teammates have taken notice. "About time, man," Jackson remarked, reflecting on the positive feedback he's receiving.
At 21, Jackson is enjoying his most efficient season as a pro. His aggressive drives to the basket, combined with more two-handed dunks and increased trips to the free-throw line, have been pivotal.
Before this season, Jackson had only managed to shoot above 50% from the field in one month over his three-year career. Now, he's achieved that in the past three months.
"Being able to finish how I have been is definitely surprising me, not going to lie," Jackson admitted.
While Jackson deserves credit for his mental shift, he openly acknowledges Pippen's role in pushing him to become a more aggressive player. Pippen shared, "I would see him in practice as one of the most athletic guys, but in games, he wouldn't dunk unless it was a fast break. Now, I'm excited every time I see him dunk and play physical because opponents are starting to get out of the way, or he's dunking on them."
Jackson's journey to efficiency began last summer. After capturing Grizzlies fans' hearts in 2024, efficiency concerns lingered.
He averaged 14.6 points but shot only 42.8% from the field. A foot injury delayed his second season, and he struggled with a 37.2% shooting percentage.
Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo advised Jackson to simplify his game-fewer dribbles, quicker decisions, and less overthinking. This decisiveness paid off.
Jackson is now averaging nine points per game with a career-high 48.2% shooting. His shooting percentage on attempts within 10 feet has soared to 61.7%.
Mentally, Jackson believes the worst outcome of driving to the basket is a blocked shot. If he beats a defender, he expects either a bucket or free throws.
This mindset shift has led to a bigger impact on the court. During his rookie season, Memphis was outscored by 195 points in his minutes.
In his second year, it was 68 points. This season, the Grizzlies are only two points worse in his 616 minutes.
"It does feel good being able to affect winning," Jackson said. "During my rookie year, those big games would be when we’re getting blown out, so it didn’t mean much.
This year it’s huge. I’m trending upward and getting more stocks.
Just trying to do those little things and have a huge impact on winning."
On defense, Jackson is also making strides. His activity has improved, earning him opportunities to guard top scorers. He's recorded at least one steal or block in seven consecutive games, a feat he hadn't achieved in his first two years.
Jackson's role as the Grizzlies aim for a swift rebuild is still unfolding, but his progress is undeniable. "It started on the defensive end," Jackson noted.
"Taking that initiative and being physical there, why not transfer it to the other end? There’s always room to grow, and I’m starting to see this area of my game take off."