The 2026 NBA Draft is already gaining much attention, with college basketball’s rising stars struggling for first-round status. Among them, Ian Jackson and Joson Sanon, now teammates at St. John’s, are turning heads. Their transfer to a Red Storm squad, which is projected as a potential preseason top-five team, has raised much interest in their draft position.
Can Jackson and Sanon secure the first-round spot? Let’s speculate.
Can St. John’s Teammates Ian Jackson And Joson Sanon Manage To Secure First Round Picks?
Ian Jackson
Ian Jackson is a former McDonald’s All-American who arrived at St. John’s after a freshman season at North Carolina, averaging 11.9 points per game. He is known for his athletic form and scoring skills. With his transition to Rick Pitino’s up-tempo system, he may be able to unlock his full potential.
At 6-foot-5, his versatility as a wing who can create off the dribble and defend multiple positions makes him a highly demanded prospect. His three-point shooting, reported at 40% in limited attempts at UNC, remains an area to watch due to inconsistent results.
Incoming transfers Ian Jackson and Joson Sanon competing at Dame Lillards camp last summer. Cant wait to see these two together at St. John’s! #sjubb
— Red Storm Rapid Reaction Podcast (@StJohnsBballPod) June 5, 2025
Joson Sanon
On the other hand, Sanon, who is transferring from Arizona State, has a different skill set. The 6-foot-5 guard averaged 11.9 points and shot 37% from three as a freshman. His decision to withdraw from the 2025 NBA Draft after workouts with teams like the Washington Wizards and Boston Celtics shows his confidence in boosting his stock.
Sanon’s smooth shooting skills and ability to stretch defenses complement Jackson’s play style.
What Needs To Be Done To Get The First Round Spot?
The 2026 draft class is stacked, with names like Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa projected as top picks. Jackson must improve his shot selection and sustain his perimeter shooting to get a chance at securing the first-round spot, and Sanon needs to showcase playmaking and defensive potential to counter perceptions of being one-dimensional. With these improvements, they may be able to get the desired spot in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Jackson and Sanon’s move to St. John’s sets them up for an impressive season. With Pitino’s system further improving their strengths, they have a golden opportunity to climb draft boards. If Jackson hones his shooting consistency and Sanon expands his versatility, both could hear their names called early in 2026.
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