32 Year Old Attempts College Basketball Comeback…Yes, This Is Really Happening!

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Janae Jackson: The Unexpected Return of a College Basketball Hooper

Janae Jackson’s name may not ring any bells in your mind, but her recent reappearance in college basketball headlines has sparked curiosity and conversation. Nearly a decade after she last suited up for an NCAA team, the former baller has entered the transfer portal — signaling a potential return that’s as surprising as it is symbolic of the changing times in college athletics.

A Star from Detroit

Born in Virginia and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Jackson made a name for herself early on at Inkster High School. Known for her toughness and versatility, she earned all-state honors and helped lead her team to a Michigan Class A State Championship during her senior year. Averaging a double-double and serving as team captain, Jackson’s high school success set the stage for a promising collegiate career.

College Career: A Journey of Resilience

Jackson began her NCAA journey at Northern Illinois University in 2011, where she played sparingly as a freshman. Seeking a better fit, she transferred to Youngstown State University. Due to NCAA transfer rules at the time and a serious injury, she didn’t return to the court until the 2014–15 season.

Over the next two years, Jackson became a key contributor for the Penguins. As a senior in 2015–16, she started the majority of games and averaged over nine points and six rebounds per game. Her most memorable performance came in the Horizon League Tournament, where she logged 24 points and 15 rebounds — including a game winner in the closing seconds.

Fighting For a Comeback

But in April 2025, Jackson stunned the college basketball world by entering the NCAA transfer portal — nearly nine years after her last game. The move came amid shifting NCAA rules and ongoing legal challenges, such as the House v. NCAA case, which may open new doors for former players who lost eligibility due to past transfer rules or injuries.

A Symbol of a Changing Era

Jackson’s situation highlights the evolving landscape of college sports, where eligibility is no longer set in stone and players have more agency than ever before. If granted another year to play, she wouldn’t just be making a comeback — she’d be making history.

Whether Jackson ultimately returns to the court or not, her reappearance serves as a powerful reminder: College basketball is changing!