In a story that’s been making waves, former Notre Dame basketball standout Demetrius Jackson finds himself in hot water. Reports emerged that Jackson, who donned the Fighting Irish jersey from 2013 to 2016, is facing two battery charges, including one involving bodily injury. This all stems from a heated incident during a boys' basketball practice at Marian High School on March 10.
Jackson, an alum of Marian, was assisting with the practice when things took a turn. According to reports, a verbal exchange between Jackson and an 18-year-old player escalated quickly.
Jackson, engaging in some trash talk, asserted his dominance by claiming, "This is my court, I can say whatever... I want," and even threatened to "beat" the player in front of his father.
The player's father, who also coaches at Marian, overheard Jackson’s challenge to his son: "say something else, you’re going to find out." The tension boiled over when Jackson allegedly head-butted the player and grabbed his neck. When the father stepped in, Jackson reportedly headbutted and shoved him as well.
The fallout from this incident is still unfolding. Marian's coach was dismissed last week, with school officials suggesting the altercation played a role in the decision. There are also rumblings about potential changes in the athletic department leadership.
Switching gears to more positive Notre Dame news, Logan Saldate is making a position shift from slot to field receiver this spring. He’s getting a little help from teammate Jordan Faison, who’s been instrumental in aiding Saldate’s transition to a role that demands more field-stretching capabilities.
In recruiting news, the Notre Dame football team celebrated a significant win with the commitment of Isaiah Rogers, a 4-star running back from Springfield (Mass.) Central. Rogers' decision to join Marcus Freeman’s squad comes after speculation that he was leaning towards the Fighting Irish.