Ohio State’s Jackson to Pass Up Senior Season

Jim Jackson said Wednesday he will pass up his senior season at Ohio State and make himself available for next month’s NBA draft.

Jackson, the Big Ten player of the year the last two seasons, had said through most of last season that he intended to remain at Ohio State for his senior year. But late in the season, he said would meet with his parents and Coach Randy Ayers after the season to determine his future.

Jackson said he reached a decision three weeks ago.

Jackson, a 6-6 swingman, was known for his unselfishness on the court, but said that wasn’t true when it came time to make up his mind.

“I have to be a little selfish here and do what’s best for me,” he said.

Jackson said deciding to leave Ohio State was difficult. “I do have mixed emotions. Coach Ayers was like a father figure. My teammates have been very great, understanding. But I think it’s time to move onward . . . get a better appreciation for the game of basketball.”

“Jimmy’s market value is high,” Ayers said. “He’s got a good chance of going in the top six. And, number one, there was no guarantee we were going to the Final Four next year. Number two, there was no guarantee he would be the (top) pick next year in the draft.”