Duke Basketball: Blue Devils in the 2017 Summer League

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Mar 8, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Frank Jackson (15) drives to the basket against Clemson Tigers forward Elijah Thomas (14) and Clemson Tigers guard Gabe DeVoe (10) during the second half of an ACC Conference Tournament game at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Frank Jackson, New Orleans Pelicans

When the Pelicans’ summer unit competes in Las Vegas, Frank Jackson will team up with former Blue Devil Quinn Cook, something that is absolutely wonderful for his development at this early stage in his career. Cook led the Blue Devils to a National Championship, and is known for his easy-going but effective leadership style and locker-room popularity. He will influence the young Jackson in ways that can’t be quantified, but are extremely important.

“Freight Train” Frank will likely play shooting guard alongside the shorter, more established distributer in Cook, allowing him to focus on shooting the ball. This summer will be an important couple of months for Jackson to develop his offensive skills set against professional talent.

Jackson needs to prove himself as a capable scorer if he wants to make the most of his first few years in the NBA. As a second round pick, it seems unlikely that he will miss out on a contract in New Orleans, but that doesn’t guarantee him playing time, or another contract.

With Cook’s leadership and experience to draw from, Jackson has a great opportunity to begin his career on the right note as he competes in Las Vegas. Make sure to tune into NBA.tv at 6:00 pm ET on Friday, July 7th to watch Jackson and the Pelicans take on the Toronto Raptors.

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