In a move that no one saw coming, the University of Connecticut has reportedly secured a commitment from five-star transfer guard Elmarko Jackson, formerly of Kansas, sending shockwaves through the Big East and cementing the Huskies as one of the favorites for the 2025-26 season.
According to multiple sources close to the situation, Jackson made the decision after visiting the UConn campus last week, citing head coach Dan Hurley’s player development record and the team’s recent national title success as key factors. The addition of Jackson gives UConn one of the deepest and most athletic backcourts in the country.
“Elmarko is exactly the kind of guard that fits UConn’s system — tough, fast, and competitive,” one analyst noted. “If this holds, they’ve just leapfrogged to the top of the early power rankings.”
Jackson, who averaged 8.9 points and 3.4 assists per game as a freshman with the Jayhawks, is expected to take on a major role with the Huskies, especially as they prepare to reload following potential NBA Draft declarations by Donovan Clingan and Stephon Castle.
The move is seen as a counter to other high-profile Big East signings, particularly Villanova’s recent portal activity and Marquette’s retention of star guard Tyler Kolek.
With Jackson now reportedly heading to Storrs, UConn’s momentum shows no sign of slowing down — and the rest of college basketball is officially on notice.
