Marreon Jackson averaged the 13th most assists in college basketball this season with 5.9. So, UNLV has reached out to the Toledo transfer, according to Jeff Goodman.
Jackson’s offensive game would be a massive help to UNLV. He averaged 18.1 points per game while shooting 34.8 percent from three. His passing ability would help fill the point guard void on the roster.
And he is proven – at least for UNLV’s level of play. Jackson has averaged at least 18 points, 5 assists and 4 rebounds in each of the last two seasons for Toledo. The MAC has ranked just behind the Mountain West in Ken Pom’s conference strength, ranking 12th to the Mountain West’s 11th.
Plus this past season Toledo went to the NIT, posted a 21-9 record and ranked 74th in Ken Pom. UNLV hasn’t ranked 74th in Ken Pom since 2012-13.
Jackson should be able to produce immediately at UNLV. But the problem for the Rebels pursuit of Jackson is simple. Why would he make a latral move (at best) to UNLV?
Jackson has one more year of eligbility and if he is going to leave a solid mid major team, why not take a shot with a much better team.
Goodman reported 13 schools have reached out to Jackson. UNLV was the only team not in a power five conference or the Big East.
Generally, UNLV’s advantage over bigger schools is to offer playing time. Go to LSU, USC, Purdue and you might have to fight for minutes. Come to UNLV and you’ll be the best player on the team.
But Jackson already had that at Toledo.
It has become clear that Kevin Kruger is prioritizing the point guard position this offseason. So it can’t hurt to reach out to any and every point guard that could make a difference for the Rebels.
The transfer portal presents the opportunity to turn a program around right away. UNLV needs to take advantage.