That’s the word Taiyanna Jackson uses when asked to describe how she’s gone from playing at Trinity Valley Community College to becoming the No. 2 shot blocker in the country at Kansas. The Jayhawk has always known that her time is coming, but it’s also been a journey to get there.

Prior to coming to Kansas, Jackson played two years of JUCO ball. Her decision to go that route—despite being a four-star prospect in high school at East Chicago Central HS and originally committed to Ole Miss—came down to her wanting to explore her options and open herself up to something new. At Trinity Valley, Jackson was a NJCAA Region 14 Freshman of the Year and averaged 10.3 points per game throughout those two seasons. 

Stats aside, what Jackson gained from the experience prepared her not just athletically, but mentally, for the DI level. “JUCO is totally different: the class sizes, the games, how we travel, how we prepare for games and everything is just different. Trinity Valley was fun and I would say, like, it prepared me for the mental side DI,” she says, later adding: “Being patient and just knowing that [my] time is coming [and] everything [I’ve] worked for, everything [I’ve] thought of [and] dreamt of [is] eventually going to come to life just by being patient,” Jackson tells us over Zoom in early March before Selection Sunday. 

By the time you’re reading this, Jackson and her squad are gearing up for March Madness—the Jayhawks will take on Michigan in the first round on March 23. To say Jackson has settled well into the Jayhawks program would be an understatement: she’s thrived. As a junior she was the first-ever Jayhawk to be selected to the Big 12 All-Defensive Team and this season she’s become so much of a defensive ace, her 3.1 blocks per game has her currently ranked No. 2 in the nation in blocks, just behind Stanford’s Cameron Brink. 

Jackson has always had a knack shot blocking, but since arriving in Lawrence, she’s been challenged with playing against opponents that are bigger, and more experienced at the DI level, then she was coming in. But it’s how she’s met that challenge—and discovered that her footwork and approach to defense is her speciality—that’s allowed her to make a major impact. “[It was] my first time playing against, like, DI basketball players,” she says looking back at her first season at KU. “I always knew I was a great defender [and] I’m quick on my feet and that’s just something that I have [as] an advantage in my position. I just took pride in that. I let my offensive game come to me and let my defense take over.” 

Jackson is fearless when she matches up against opponents. Don’t sleep though: her offensive game is there, too—she’s currently second on the team in scoring with 12.6 ppg—but on the other end of the floor, Jackson really gets in her bag. “I really just love defense. It’s just like, the excitement and the joy you get when you’re blocking somebody’s shot. I don’t know, I just like it,” she says now with a smile and a slight chuckle. 

The passion in her voice is evident, and at one point, Jackson motions a chef’s kiss with her hand, as if comparing the feeling of blocking someone’s shot to a delicacy. When Kansas played Houston in February, Jackson posted nine blocked shots amidst a double-double performance, propelling her to the top of Jayhawks record book with the most career blocked shots in program history (270). 

 “Just stop sleeping on her,” teammate Zakiyah Franklin told The University Daily Kansan. “She’s been doing this. It’s not new to us…but people around the country should be put on notice more.” All season long, Jackson has been proving time and time again that this is just what she does: a few games later against UCF, Jackson ran all the way from the post to the top of the key and blocked sophomore Taylor Gibson right as the buzzer went off in the second quarter. She had yet another monster double-double performance of 29 points, 10 rebounds and even four blocks to help seal the 65-53 win. 

The Jayhawks will need that same energy from her ahead of the NCAA tournament, where they’ll look to make a run past the second-round for the first time since 2022. Regardless of what happens, this is only the beginning for Jackson, who has her sights set on the WNBA in the future. We can only imagine how her game will grow at the next level. 

“I would like to go play at the next level. That’s the goal.”

Photos via Getty Images. Portrait via KU Athletics.

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For the next 30 days—Monday through Friday— we’ll be unveiling the full list here. We’ve also got an exclusive retro collegiate collection, out now, that pays homage to each squad’s threads. Shop here.

Elite backcourt, elite bigs. A recipe for success. Michelin star level of success. Russell Westbrook. Darren Collison. Kevin Love. Luc Mbah a Moute. Four League-bound talents emphatically stormed into the 07-08 season. The result? Three-straight regular season Pac-10 titles. A third-straight Final Four appearance. Since the tourney expanded to 64 teams in ‘85, only four teams have accomplished such a feat—just another day at the office for the Bruins. 

The Bruins changing of the guard saw UCLA great Aaron Afflalo enter the League but welcome a 6-10 tree from the forests of Lake Oswego, Oregon, Kevin Love. The freshman double-double machine quickly cemented his status as a one-and-done prospect while the team’s offense flowed through the 17.5 points per game scorer. LA native Josh Ship, Alfred Aboya and Lorenzo Mata-Real have curtailed Ben Howland’s strongest roster. 

Love’s dominance in the paint and soft touch around the basket earned him Pac-10 Player of the Week after destroying Washington State. Then there was Westbrook, a player who was as fearless as they come. Collison was known for his pinpoint shooting accuracy and taking matters into his own hands when needed.

The man in charge of it all was Ben Howland, a coaching prodigy known for his disciplined approach and defensive expertise. Coach Howland wasn’t just a coach but a master strategist who knew how to get the best out of his players. The Bruins’ defense remained rooted in intensity while executing offense without a trace of a turnover.

The Bruins weren’t satisfied with just winning; they were out to destroy each opponent. And Westbrook let you know it with every chance he could—emphatic screams after highlights, strutting down the court after rim-rocking throw-downs. The first round of the NCAA tournament proved just that when UCLA dominated Mississippi Valley, securing a commanding 41-point win over Mississippi Valley. Each game was the Bruins dominating on all sides of the court. 

The true test came in the Pac-10 championship. UCLA was down for most of the game against Stanford. After trailing through the first 20 minutes, the Bruins kicked into gear in the second half and managed to snag a back-and-forth 67-64 win. They kept that same energy throughout the NCAA Tournament, breezing through until they hit the final four, where they fell short. They never backed down, always leaving it all out on the court. 

But, amidst all the style and swagger, the Bruins remained focused on their ultimate goal: winning games. And win, they did. With an impressive win-loss record of 35-4 and a deep run in the NCAA tournament, they proved to be more than just a flashy show. They were a team with heart, determination, and a relentless drive to succeed. Ultimately, the ‘08 UCLA men’s basketball team made an enduring impact on the collegiate basketball scene. 

Photos via Getty Images.

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For the next 30 days—Monday through Friday— we’ll be unveiling the full list here. We’ve also got an exclusive retro collegiate collection, out now, that pays homage to each squad’s threads. Shop here.

Back in ‘99, St. John wasn’t just a university; they represented the true essence of New York City. Their men’s basketball team was no exception: with a hustler’s spirit, a chip on their shoulder, and newly sponsored fire engine red Jordan Brand uniforms, they lifted the program into a new era. The Red Storm may have entered the season unranked, but by March, the entire college ecosystem was echoing the vibrations of Queens. 

Head coach Mike Jarvis understood what he was dealing with in his squad: players like Queensbridge native Metta Sandiford-Artest – known back then as Ron Artest –  grew up living on New York City black tops. Toughness and attitude weren’t ever a question. Instead, he capitalized on that intensity and fueled their local pride so that every time his players took the court, they played to represent themselves and the city. With a 28-9 regular season record, they captivated audiences everywhere they went. Artest’s will to win was off the charts, like when he made sure to nail that three against Duke to push the game into OT because he knew he’d sink it. Then there was freshman sensation Erick Barkley, who dazzled crowds with no-look passes and highlight-reel dunks. Bootsy Thornton didn’t just dominate on the defensive end; he could score under any circumstances. The two-time All-Big East selection was good for nearly 15 points a game, but the DMV native truly shined under the spotlight. The No. 2 ranked Duke Blue Devils were on the receiving end of one such performance, where Thorton exploded for a 40-piece. Bolstered by Tyrone Grant’s post presence and Lavor Postell’s sharp shooting from deep, the Storm’s five double-digit scorers could light it up in transition and half-court. 

The Red Storm weren’t afraid to bully their way through the Big East while rocking those baggy yet sleek bright-red uniforms. Any time they stepped on the floor, they weren’t content with just winning; they wanted to entertain, to leave spectators in awe of their skills and dominance. St. John’s destroyed the Maryland Terrapins 76-62 because they weren’t satisfied with just winning; they had to show their dominance over their opponents. Barkley’s 24-piece was evidence enough. Each game was a spectacle, a showcase of the team’s talent. 

The Big East championship game went down to the wire against UConn, and despite the 82-63 loss, that was just the beginning of their postseason run. St. John’s dominated the NCAA tournament through the Elite Eight, winning each game by an average of 25 points.

And even now, decades later, the legacy of the ‘99 St. John’s men’s basketball team lives on. They remain a symbol of hope and inspiration, a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a never-say-die attitude. They weren’t just a team; they were a phenomenon, a shining example of what can be achieved when talent, determination, and heart come together in perfect harmony. Their impact extended far beyond the confines of the basketball court. With the Big East running through Mecca in 98-99, the Red Storm returned to the Garden 25 years later to a standing ovation from the New York faithful. Their legacy is cemented and enshrined in the city’s historic connection with the game. 

Photos via Getty Images.

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For the next 30 days—Monday through Friday— we’ll be unveiling the full list here. We’ve also got an exclusive retro collegiate collection, out now, that pays homage to each squad’s threads. Shop here.

The ‘99 UCLA men’s basketball team had everyone buzzing. Draped in bold powder blue and gold, the coastal Pac-10 squad embodied an unseen swagger in Westwood. Picture this: a lethal Baron Davis and Earl Watson backcourt with Third-Team All-American and Pac-10 All-Freshman Team honors to their name. A supporting cast of bucket-getters and defensive specialists in Jaron Rush, Jérôme Moïso, Dan Gadzuric and a budding freshman in Matt Barnes.  

At the wheel was none other than Steve Lavin, a young coach with a fiery passion for the game and a knack for getting the best out of his players. Lavin wasn’t just a coach; he was a motivator, a strategist and a mastermind of the game. His flashy offensive schemes and innovative tactics kept fans on the edge of their seats and opponents guessing. With Lavin calling the shots, you never knew what kind of magic the Bruins would produce next. 

Then there was star guard Baron Davis, the hometown kid who enacted a spectacle under the lights of Pauley Pavilion. Moïso was an ace on defense, while Rush cleaned the glass with 7.3 boards a game, and Ray Young splashed down spot-ups from beyond the arc. Between their toughness, versatility, and willingness to put their bodies on the line, these players dominated the court every time. Back in March of ‘99, we documented the team’s recapturing of UCLA’s standard traditions. A rebirth was taking place in Westwood spearheaded by a youthful roster with only two upperclassmen to claim.  

Despite falling short of their eventual personal expectations with an opening round loss to Detroit Mercy in the tourney, the UCLA Bruins, soaking up LA’s sunny vibes, brought a lot more than just wins to the table. They echoed the essence of a city that is vibrant and full of energy. Their electrifying performances on the court brought people together from all corners of the city, uniting fans of every background under one common passion. Whether it was students packing into Pauley Pavilion or families gathering around their TVs at home, the Bruins had a way of captivating audiences and instilling pride within the community. The wins and losses didn’t just measure their impact; it was felt in the hearts and minds of everyone touched by their presence. They were LA’s own hometown heroes, inspiring future generations to dream big and reach for the stars. 

Photos via Getty Images.

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For the next 30 days—Monday through Friday— we’ll be unveiling the full list here. We’ve also got an exclusive retro collegiate collection, out now, that pays homage to each squad’s threads. Shop here.

Picture this: bold colors, flashy designs, and a whole lot of swagger. That’s exactly what kind of aura the ‘98 Fresno State Bulldogs exuded that season. Rocking radiant red uniforms with the Bulldogs written on the hem of the shorts and loud blue waistbands, the Bulldogs didn’t just play basketball; they made a statement with their threads. You couldn’t miss them on the court, and trust me, you didn’t want to. 

The man calling the shots for the Bulldogs was none other than Jerry Tarkanian, a coaching icon known for his flashy demeanor and even flashier plays. As he was affectionately known, Tark wasn’t just a coach; he was a showman. His fast-paced, high-flying style of play kept fans on the edge of their seats and opponents on their toes. With Tark at the helm, you never knew what kind of jaw-dropping move or play was coming next. 

Known for their exceptional talent and contributions to the team, Chris Herren, Rafer Alston, and Terrance Roberson helped elevate Fresno State’s dominance in college basketball. Chris Herren, a point guard with lightning-fast reflexes and an uncanny ability to read the game, was the engine that drove the Bulldogs’ offense. His court vision was second to none, and his knack for finding open teammates made him a nightmare for defenses to handle.

On the cover of Issue 22, we dubbed “Skip to My Lou” the best point guard in the world—high expectations for a 20-year-old junior hailing from Queens. But if you knew anything about Rafer, you knew he was about to raise the playing field for NYC point gods across the collegiate scene. Playground prodigy, high school legend. The Bull Dogs’ engine. A player who would go on to define SLAM’s 30 years.

Skip made an immediate impact with his electrifying style of play, averaging 11 points and 7.3 assists per game which helped the team to a 20-win season.  Then there was Terrance Roberson, known as “T-Rob,” a standout player known for his scoring ability. Standing at 6 ‘7, T-Rob helped Fresno State appear in the NCAA tourney by averaging 14.6 a game to put Fresno State on top. Their individual talents weren’t enough to get Fresno State far in the NCAA Tournament, but the Bulldogs weren’t just a two-man show; they had a supporting cast that was every bit as talented and exciting to watch. Chris Herren would dazzle defenders in the pick-and-roll, dishing out 4.8 assists and swiping nearly 2 steals a game on top of 15.6 points per. Tremaine Fowlkes diced up the paint easily while tearing down boards and immediately kick-starting the fast break. Every player on the roster brought something special to the table. Together, they formed a cohesive unit greater than the sum of its parts, a team that was as formidable as it was entertaining. 

The record books may not reflect it, but Fresno State’s 97-98 squad stamped the San Joaquin Valley with an unreplicable season. The crosses, the dimes, and the shots may never be seen again in such a fashion. So it’s about time they got their due shine. Their impact brought attention to the talent and potential of the team, and they laid the groundwork for future success by even making it to the tournament. 

Photos via Getty Images.

The post The 30 Most Influential NCAA MBB Teams of SLAM’s 30 Years: ‘98 Fresno State appeared first on SLAM.

For the next 30 days—Monday through Friday— we’ll be unveiling the full list here. We’ve also got an exclusive retro collegiate collection, out now, that pays homage to each squad’s threads. Shop here.

Loaded with five future NBA players, the ‘96-97 Arizona Wildcats embodied the best elements of college basketball. Fashionable comebacks, even flashier kicks. A freshman phenom. Four double-digit scorers. And a storybook ending. They ran through three blue bloods to steal the chip. But expectations at the start of the season weren’t so merry. 

The Wildcats were recovering from the loss of four upperclassmen: leading scorer Joseph Blair, rebounding leader Ben Davis and veteran point guard Reggie Geary. But where they lacked experience, they crafted their own trends, spearheaded by freshman Mike Bibby. 

“Mike Bibby brought that swag to our team because when he came in, he got the standard issued team shoe, and right away he was like, ‘Ahh, nah. I ain’t wearin’ these,’’ remembers Terry of his introduction to the brash freshman. “He immediately went to the store on campus and bought a pair of Jordans. Then everybody followed and wanted the hottest shoe out. Mike Bibby spearheaded that shoe movement.”

The man behind the scenes was coaching legend Lute Olson. With his trademark silver hair and Armani suits, Olson had next-level swagger. His offensive tactics and defensive plans were poetry in motion, making the most of his talented roster. The roster contained three future NBA stars: Mike Bibby, Miles Simon, and Michael Dickerson, a.k.a The Big Three. 

Bibby played with a raw confidence beyond his years. Simon brought infectious energy that electrified the crowd. Dickerson was the hustle king, giving his 110% every minute. Together, they were a three-headed monster, dominating with skills, smarts, and chemistry. 

It wasn’t just their popularity that drew fans to the games; it was their electrifying style of play. In a tied contest against the Kansas Jayhawks in the Sweet 16, Arizona’s Miles Simon drove to the basket, drawing the Kansas defense before kicking the ball out to Michael Dickerson, who buried a clutch three-pointer. This shot sent the Wildcats to the Elite Eight and further cemented their loyal fanbase. 

In the basketball history books, the Wildcats of 1997 are remembered for their historic championship, where they returned from a 10-point deficit to force a thrilling overtime in Indianapolis. We here at SLAM remember that moment a little differently: the on-court debut of the Nike Foamposite. 

Cooked up by the legendary Eric Avar, the polarizing pair of kicks were brought to Bibby and co. to rock in the championship well before Penny Hardaway got to lace them up on the NBA hardwood. Even the folks in Beaverton, OR, recognized the allure surrounding the Wildcats. Despite rocking a slightly brighter shade of blue in contrast to their navy-shaded threads, the Wildcats brought forth a sneaker revolution on the collegiate scene. Team-issued sneaks didn’t have to be the norm. If we’re being honest, Bibby and the Wildcats knocked down the door for the on-foot creativity seen in the college game today. 

Their performance on the court truly immortalized the ‘97 Wildcats. Whether it was a last-second buzzer beater against Kentucky made by Mike Bibby or a miraculous comeback when the Wildcats were trailing by double digits against the Providence Friars in the first half and came back to win the game 96-92 in overtime. But it was March where the Wildcats truly cemented their stake in the cultural fabric of collegiate hoops. Entering the tourney as a No. 4 seed, the Cats stormed past three No. 1 seeds to secure the program’s lone NCAA Championship. With a remarkable 25-9 record and an NCAA championship to their name, they left a permanent mark on the NCAA. 

“You watch television, read the newspapers, no one had us going anywhere,” Simon said. “But what happened in the past with the University of Arizona has nothing to do with this team.” 

Though decades may have passed since their historic championship run, their story continues to inspire and captivate audiences, reminding us of the magic that happens when a group of individuals comes together to achieve the extraordinary.

Photos via Getty Images.

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