Rickea Jackson and Atlanta Falcons’ rookie James Pearce Jr. hard-launched their relationship during the NFL draft in April. The couple kept their relationship away from the camera until the right time came for them to reveal it to the world.
Shortly after, Pearce Jr. made a big statement, showing love and appreciation for his WNBA star girlfriend. In May, he said that Rickea Jackson was his favorite athlete growing up. Although the question might have been intended to expect a different answer, Jackson found Pearce Jr.’s statement “cute.”
Pearce Jr. also spoke highly about Rickea Jackson’s game, saying the LA Sparks’ star’s game was “fluid, smooth, sound and technical.”
In a video published by USA Today, Jackson clarified her boyfriend’s comments.
“It was cute that he said that,” Jackson said. “People are in the comments taking it the wrong way. They were saying, ‘Right now, who’s your favorite athlete?’ But I love him so much.”
She also added that Pearce Jr.’s speed and his cerebral approach towards the game were the best parts of his game.
“I would just have to say the speed that he comes off the edge with. He’s very intimidating. He’s huge. He’s put on some good weight for his position, and his mindset as well. The way that he looks at things, his smartness on the field, it doesn’t go unnoticed.”
Expand Post
Rickea Jackson left fans confused after hilarious social media post about her relationship
The video of Rickea Jackson sitting beside James Pearce Jr. during his draft announcement went viral on social media. After his name was announced, a happy Jackson was seen rubbing her boyfriend’s leg in support.
Although he was showered with hugs and kisses by his family, Pearce Jr. wrapped his hand around the Sparks star.
Expand Tweet
Shortly after the video went viral on social media, Jackson made a post on X, hilariously saying that it was her doppelganger who was sitting beside James Pearce Jr.
“Sooo I have a doppelganger. Wow,” she wrote in the post.
Expand Tweet
Jackson and Pearce Jr. would have united in Los Angeles if things had played out differently. He was drafted by Atlanta at No. 26, a draft pick that was previously held by the LA Rams.
Both Rickea Jackson and Pearce Jr.’s relationship started when they were student athletes at the University of Tennessee. After playing her first three years for Mississippi State, Jackson played her last two seasons for the Tennessee Lady Volunteers. James Pearce Jr. played three years with Tennessee.
Was this article helpful?
Thank You for feedback
About the author
Nandjee Ranjan is a journalist covering the NBA and WNBA at Sportskeeda whose passion for basketball dates back to his childhood when he enjoyed playing the sport in school.
Nandjee finds his heart divided between two NBA powerhouses: the LA Lakers and the Golden State Warriors. He idolizes LeBron James and his leadership, while he appreciates the Warriors’ dynamic and team-oriented style of play.
Basketball, for Nandjee, isn’t just a sport but a holistic approach to fitness and well-being. He’s been drawn to team sports, finding fulfillment in the physical engagement basketball offers.
With years of following basketball, Nandjee contextualizes historical events and player performances. He believes in conducting thorough research before writing, only taking information from reliable sources. He doesn’t mind taking more time to write an articles, as long as it is 100% accurate for his readers’ benefit.
During his leisure hours, Nandjee finds relaxation by reading books.
Quick Links
More from Sportskeeda
Edited by Victor R. Lopez M.
Leave a Reply