WILLIAMSBURG, Va. - Ryan Jackson Jr. is a long way from home.
 
The Mesa, Arizona, native grew up in the Grand Canyon State but moved across the country last year to attend William & Mary.
 
Jackson had never heard of William & Mary before being recruited by the coaches, but his connection with the William & Mary coaching staff, who had recruited him previously at Cornell, made it an easy decision.
 
"The welcoming vibe they provided and their appreciation for my style of play and character really stood out to me," Jackson said. "It was a big environment switch, but I'm glad they took a chance on me."
 
Jackson also saw the academic opportunities at William & Mary as a significant upgrade from high school, with its reputation as a Public Ivy and now a New Ivy
 
In addition to the coaches, Jackson's family, particularly his parents - Ryan and Kathy Jackson, played an integral role in his decision to come to Williamsburg.
 
"They've definitely inspired me in many ways," Jackson said. "They were athletes themselves, so they taught me valuable life lessons that correlate with basketball and sports in general."
 
Jackson also has a familial tie to the NBA, as his cousin, Zach Randolph, played in the league for 17 years.
 
"Zach inspired me a lot growing up. He was one of the main reasons I wanted to pick up a basketball," Jackson said. "Watching him play and be on a successful team helped me fall in love with the game."
 
Jackson's cousin and Zach's daughter, Mackenly Randolph, plays for the Louisville women's basketball team, which has helped him stay close with her throughout their careers.
 
"It's been great to have her in my life and talk to her about navigating our careers," Jackson said. "I appreciate her a lot."
 
CALM AND FUNNY
 
Jackson describes himself as a calm and funny individual who enjoys making people around him laugh.
 
"I try to live in the moment and not overthink too much about the future and what I can't control," he said.
 
As he looked ahead to his future, Jackson has aspirations of playing professional basketball.
 
"When it comes to my game, I've been compared to players like Cameron Johnson and Rui Hachimura," Jackson said. "I admire their playing styles and try to incorporate some of their moves into my own game."
 
Jackson also dreams of being involved in sports media or broadcasting, whether it is in front of or behind the camera.
 
"I believe I can make a significant impact by talking about basketball and sharing my insights with others," he said.
 
A UNIQUE BLEND
 
Jackson's path to success is a unique blend of athletic and academic goals, drawing inspiration from his family, his favorite players, and his own experiences on and off the court.
 
"I just want to make sure I'm doing everything I can to better myself, the team, and the community," said Jackson.
 
But the court isn't the only place he's looking to make a difference. Jackson's Polish heritage holds significant meaning for him, and his family's traditions during holidays like Christmas and Easter include enjoying Polish dishes like pierogies.
 
"It's a way for us to stay connected to our roots and celebrate our heritage," Jackson said.
 
Jackson also has a passion for video games, particularly Minecraft, which he has been playing since he was young.
 
"It's a way for me to feel like a kid again and have fun in my free time," Jackson said. "There's no age limit on enjoying video games, in my opinion."
 
He also has a strong love for music, with J. Cole being his favorite artist.
 
"J. Cole's storytelling in his songs allows me to envision a movie in my head while I listen. I appreciate his lyricism and the messages he conveys."
 
A BRIGHT FUTURE
 
Jackson is eagerly anticipating his future at William & Mary and beyond.
 
With a blend of inspiration from his family, admiration for his favorite players, and a calm yet humorous personality, he is determined to make a significant impact on and off the court.
 
Whether he's chasing his basketball dreams or exploring a career in broadcasting, Jackson is ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.
 
"I'm just excited to be able to do what I love and make the people around me proud," Jackson said.