Jerdarrius “JD” Jackson walked into the North Marion gym four years ago unsure of what his future might hold.
Now, the senior point guard has written his name into the program’s record book.
Jackson surpassed 1,000 career points as North Marion defeated Eastside to win the district championship, a milestone that capped a journey that began with him earning a varsity starting role as a freshman.
“It was a big deal to start that first year. There were definitely some jitters,” Jackson said. “But after about three games, I felt comfortable and just did my thing. It’s been awesome getting better year after year.”
A native of the Ocala area, Jackson has played basketball for as long as he can remember. While not many of his childhood peers now suit up with him, he believes the current Colts roster is built on a shared love for the game.
“All these guys are basketball dudes. We love the game,” Jackson said. “This group is very close and we all want to win.”
That chemistry has shown throughout the season. After dropping a pair of games late in the 2025 calendar year, North Marion flipped the switch in January. Since the start of 2026, the Colts are 12-1 and playing with a sharper edge.
“We wanted to match everybody’s aggressiveness,” Jackson said. “Coming back from break, we just didn’t want to lose.”
As the team’s point guard, Jackson takes pride in setting up teammates for easy looks, but it was his own basket that delivered the milestone moment.
“It was a three from the wing,” Jackson said. “I hit it, everyone got loud and knew that was all I needed for 1K. It was great having my teammates and the crowd be part of it.”
The 6-foot-3 guard has remained relatively healthy throughout his career, something he credits to North Marion athletic trainer Allie Hall.
“She’s always doing whatever we need, helping with recovery, taping us up, and keeping us ready,” Jackson said. “We’re grateful to have someone who cares that much.”
With county and district championships already secured, North Marion now turns its attention to the state tournament. The Colts will open regional play against Satellite on Valentine’s Day as the No. 1 seed, needing three wins to reach the Final Four.
“It’s on to the next one,” Jackson said. “I don’t want my high school career to end just yet.”
Jackson’s performance and leadership earn him this week’s UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Athlete of the Week honors. Each weekly winner is eligible for the UF Health High School Athlete of the Year Scholarship, a $2,500 award presented at the conclusion of the 2025–26 academic year.