Jackman keeping all his options open
Despite the sea of local ballers competing in the NBA’s 3X event, held in London for the second straight year, one man stood head and shoulders above all others – Orlan Jackman.
Jackman was just a spectator at the Ducketts Common competition, observing the action and enjoying some time in the summer sun with friends. But behind Jackman’s chilled exterior is a man on the verge of a big decision.
“Maybe a week or two” was the 25-year old’s best guess on when a decision would be made about which team he will suit up for next season, having spent last season with the London Lions where he averaged 16 ppg and 7.5 rpg in his rookie campaign.
So will Jackman be back with the Lions to play in their new home at the Copper Box?
“We’ve had a few conversations but nothing concrete at the moment,” advised Jackman. “If me and the coach get together and everything sounds perfect, which I’m sure it probably will, you might see me there next season, definitely.”
Despite Jackman’s positivity around a new deal with his home town team (“I grew up in Hackney, it’s literally in my own back yard. I’ll be able to ride one of those Boris Bikes into the games!”), the pressure is on Lions owner and Head Coach, Vince Macaulay, with other teams expressing an interest in Jackman.
Rumours about BBL rivals, the Plymouth Raiders, taking a shine to the 6′ 7″ forward have surfaced, while Jackman himself acknowledges that he has options available to him.
“A few teams around the league [BBL] and a few teams abroad,” explained Jackman in answer to the identity of his potential suitors.
“My agent is trying to get me a look in in Romania and maybe Greece. I heard the Greek league is tough and training regime is intense which is something I love doing.
“But just trying to weigh up my options to see where I’ll develop better as a player and win championships.”
While Jackman mulls over where he will take his talents next season, he has a more immediate opportunity – the Great Britain Men’s camp.
Jackman confirmed he has been invited to the GB Men’s training camp in Staffordshire on August 6th and has had positive conversations with newly installed Head Coach, Joe Prunty.
“He’s called me up a few times, exchanged a lot of emails, shown a keen interest in getting me into camp. Once I’m in camp, anything can happen. I just have to work as hard as I can and hopefully he likes me.”
With a number of Olympic representatives withdrawing from camp selection, the door is wide open for new talent; and Jackman is determined to make the most of his chance.
“I’m not going to be settling, definitely not . It’s the highest honour to represent your country. I have always wanted to represent my country. Hopefully I’ll get my shot if I work hard.”
