Time will tell how Dallas Center-Grimes matches up with the top teams in the CIML at the state tournament. Having seen the Mustangs win the Benton tournament last week, it’s obvious they have the pieces to compete. It starts in the back row with clean passes from Jackson. The junior libero controls a lot of court. She communicates and helps keep the team connected. A Drake commitment, Jackson flashes a high volleyball IQ. She reads and reacts quickly to opponent maneuvers, operating with a solid platform and flowing with the action. Champions need a rock wearing the jersey, and DCG has it in Jackson.

Jackson is a steady as they come when we’re talking abut back-rowers in Iowa’s 2028 Class. It’s been fun watching the growth of her game during the last few years in taking advantage of every rep for PowerPlex and Dallas Center-Grimes, who she helped reach last year’s state semifinals. Jackson is a smart volleyball player that learns opponent tendencies as the match goes on. She’s technically sound when passing, whether it be defending against the attack or in serve-receive. Jackson communicates well with her teammates and acts as a coach on the floor. She’s on an excellent development trajectory that will lead to success on the next level.

Iowa PowerPlex is building a serious pipeline of star liberos. We’ve already highlighted a 2027 standout, but we’re now peering into the 2028 lens before recruitment kicks off in a couple of weeks. Jackson likely left a strong impression on college scouts with another show-stopping defensive outing at last weekend’s tournament. She has been 16U Nelson’s backcourt commander through much of this year’s club campaign, particularly during the team’s championship ascent at our Iowa Clash. We got a reminder of Jackson’s vast repertoire at the National Tune-Up, offering the perfect prelude to upperclassman status at Dallas Center-Grimes.