Bio

Cedric Jackson enters his firsts season as head coach of the Bryant & Stratton Rochester men's basketball program. Jackson is a former professional basketball player, best known for his dynamic play as a point guard and his time commanding the floor for the New Zealand Breakers in the Australian-based NBL (National Basketball League).

Born in Alamogordo, New Mexico, Jackson moved during his upbringing and played high school basketball at Medical Lake High School (Washington) and Northern Burlington County Regional High School (New Jersey). He began his college career at St. John’s University (2004-2006) before transferring to Cleveland State University for the 2007-2009 seasons. At Cleveland State he averaged 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 2.8 steals per game over two seasons, and helped lead the Vikings to NCAA Tournament appearances. Jackson starred at Cleveland State, helping them make two straight postseason appearances in 2008 and 2009. In 71 games for the Vikings over two seasons, Jackson averaged 12.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 2.8 steals per game. During the 2009 Horizon League Championship, he was named Tournament MVP after guiding Cleveland State to victory over Butler University and securing an NCAA Tournament berth. He gained national recognition for his remarkable game-winning full-court shot against Syracuse University and for helping the Vikings upset Wake Forest University in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

After going undrafted in the 2009 NBA Draft, Jackson began his professional career in the NBA Development League with the Erie BayHawks, and also had short stints in the NBA with the Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs and Washington Wizards. In 2011, Jackson signed with the New Zealand Breakers, where he truly made his mark. Over his tenure he led the team to multiple grand-final appearances and secured three championships (2012, 2013, 2015).

Individually, Jackson captured the NBL Most Valuable Player award in 2013. He was named Grand Final MVP in 2013 and again in 2015. He also made the All-NBL First Team in 2012, 2013 and 2015. Notably, he also led the league in assists every season during his first four years in the NBL. Later in his career, Jackson played overseas (including Slovenia) and in minor leagues before retiring as a player.

Jackson was known for his all-around guard skills: he could score, rebound, assist and steal with regularity. His ability to orchestrate offense, create for teammates, and make big plays under pressure made him a standout overseas. With the Breakers, his winning mentality and leadership elevated the club to one of the NBL’s dominant forces during his stay.