Standing at 6’5” and weighing 190 pounds, Jackson Stephan is a high-level combo guard in the Class of 2026 with a unique blend of athleticism, skill, and academic excellence.
A product of HCHS (Hopkins County Central) and a standout on the Kentucky Basketball Club (Pro16) circuit, Jackson brings a complete two-way game that translates to multiple levels of college basketball.
On the floor, Jackson is a high-IQ guard with court vision, patience, and leadership.
He operates with poise and plays with a deliberate pace, never rushed, and always in control.
He can score at all three levels, makes quality reads as a passer, and uses his size well against smaller guards.
His physical tools, broad shoulders, long arms, and strong frame, allow him to be disruptive defensively while finishing through contact in the paint.
In the classroom, Jackson is just as impressive.
With a 4.0 GPA (unweighted) and a 29 ACT score, he is the definition of a student-athlete.
Coaches at the next level will appreciate his discipline, consistency, and team-first mindset.
As his confidence grows, expect his offensive assertiveness to reach another level.
He has all the makings of a reliable and versatile college guard.
Strengths
- Great basketball IQ
- Strong physical frame
- Excellent court vision
- Finishes through contact
- High academic achiever
- Three-level scoring ability
- Effective off-ball movement
- Tough on-ball defender
Areas to Improve
- Develop quicker first step
- Increase shooting consistency
- Improve lateral quickness
- More vocal leadership presence
- Add upper body strength
- Handle defensive pressure better
College Projection
- Mid-major D1 ready
- Ivy League potential fit
- High academic programs target
- Sleeper Power 5 prospect
Conclusion Summary
Jackson Stephan is a rising 2026 guard with the tools, intellect, and work ethic to be a successful college basketball player.
His blend of size, skill, and academic achievement makes him a prime recruit for programs seeking a true combo guard who can run the offense, defend multiple positions, and excel in the classroom.
As he continues to develop his explosiveness and assertiveness on offense, Jackson’s upside becomes even more intriguing.
He’s a coachable leader with great instincts and a strong basketball foundation, exactly the kind of player that elevates a college program on and off the court.