Northridge Basketball Recruit Discovered at Unlikely School

The Sherman Oaks Center for Enriched Studies in Reseda is known for its journalism and debate teams. Never had a CES basketball player received a college scholarship.

Until Thursday.

Dannton Jackson, a 6-4 1/2 forward with an impressive academics background--and a jump shot to match--says he will sign a letter of intent with Cal State Northridge. Coach Pete Cassidy delivered the letter to Jackson on Wednesday.

Jackson averaged 27 points and nine rebounds a game for CES, which had such schools as Downtown Business Magnet on its schedule. Jackson chose Northridge because of the education it offered--in business school and on the basketball court.

“I have a lot to learn defensively and playing in an upper division,” Jackson said. “How I do in both areas is a matter of dedication.”

Cassidy describes Jackson as an unproven player with a lot of natural ability. “He didn’t play against the best competition, but he can shoot and he can drive,” Cassidy said. “He’s a good athlete, and that won’t change.”

Because of his inexperience against top-flight competition, Jackson is considered somewhat of a project, but Cassidy hopes he can contribute next season.

“It’s a matter of how fast he adjusts to the difference from magnet league to here,” Cassidy said.