Briarcrest Stars Fred Smith Jr. and Cello Jackson Jr. Commit to Memphis Basketball

The childhood friends will lead the next era of Memphis hoops.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:12am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a basketball game, with overlapping planes of color and abstracted forms representing the players and action on the court.The dynamic duo of Fred Smith Jr. and Cello Jackson Jr. will bring a new era of excitement to Memphis basketball.Memphis Today

Briarcrest four-star forward Fred Smith Jr. and his childhood friend Cello Jackson Jr. have both committed to play basketball at the University of Memphis. The two standout high school players will be key pieces in the next era of Memphis Tigers basketball.

Why it matters

Memphis basketball has struggled in recent years, but the commitments of Smith Jr. and Jackson Jr. signal a potential turnaround for the program. As local products, the duo's arrival could reignite fan interest and inspire the next generation of Memphis basketball stars.

The details

Smith Jr., a four-star recruit, and Jackson Jr., a three-star recruit, have been friends since childhood and have long discussed the possibility of playing together at the college level. Their commitments to Memphis come as the program looks to rebuild after several disappointing seasons.

  • Fred Smith Jr. announced his commitment to Memphis on April 9, 2026.
  • Cello Jackson Jr. also committed to Memphis, joining his childhood friend.

The players

Fred Smith Jr.

A four-star forward from Briarcrest Christian School in Memphis, Smith Jr. is considered one of the top high school basketball prospects in the state.

Cello Jackson Jr.

A three-star recruit from Briarcrest, Jackson Jr. has been friends with Smith Jr. since childhood and the two will now team up to lead the next era of Memphis basketball.

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What they’re saying

“That was always a talking point, playing together in college.”

— Fred Smith Jr., Briarcrest Forward

What’s next

The two players will look to lead Memphis back to the NCAA Tournament in the coming years, with high expectations for the program's future.

The takeaway

The commitments of Smith Jr. and Jackson Jr. represent an exciting new chapter for Memphis basketball, as the childhood friends aim to revive the program's fortunes and inspire the next generation of local talent.