Maryland Basketball: Justin Jackson likely returning to Terrapins, Big Ten up for grabs

The Maryland Terrapins can breathe a sigh of relief, as second-leading scorer Justin Jackson is expected to return to school next season.

First reported by Jon Rothstein of FanRag Sports, the Maryland Terrapins’ Justin Jackson will likely forgo the NBA Draft and return to school for the 2017-18 season.

Jackson, a 6’7, 225-pound forward out of Canada, averaged 10.5 points per game and 6 rebounds per game over 27.8 minutes per game last season. He helped lead the Terrapins to an impressive 24-9 record and a trip to the 2017 NCAA Tournament. Unluckily being set against an under-seeded Xavier Musketeers’ squad, Maryland didn’t make it past the first round. However, this season the team might do even better – despite the loss of Melo Trimble.

However, this season the team might do even better – despite the loss of Melo Trimble.

Jackson’s return is wonderful news for the Terrapins who, despite a great roster, were expected to take a slight step back in the Big Ten next season. Now, I don’t see this happening at all, as the Big Ten should be more competitive than ever, and I give Maryland the edge over some of the other rising teams in the conference.

Due to Trimble’s departure, however, Jackson and his fellow teammates must step up offensive production next season. Don’t worry, though, Maryland fans. Jackson showed flashes of being a really good player last season, and it could be just a matter of time before he explodes offensively.

Next: Best available transfers for 2017-18

Expect big things from Jackson and the Terrapins in 2017-18. The Big Ten is definitely up for grabs.