Now it’s a hard launch.
Los Angeles Sparks star Ricket Jackson and former Tennessee Edge Rush James Pierce Jr. appeared to be publishing their relationship during the 2025 NFL Draft on Thursday night.
Jackson and Pierce were together on the 26th overall pick as the Falcons traded up to pick Pierce in the first round.
Jackson, 24, sat with 21-year-old Pierce and rubbed his leg when he learned that his NFL dream would become a reality after three seasons in Tennessee.
The Sparks star also attended school from 2022-24, playing two seasons for lady volunteers.
There was speculation on social media that Jackson and Pierce were on a date, but athletes have not addressed the issue publicly up until now.
Many fans said they were shocked while responding to X’s news.
“Is that Likkea?” wrote one fan.
“When I saw Ricket Jackson sitting next to James Pierce Jr. on the night of the draft, I was on my knees.” Another addition.
AP
Others said they couldn’t wait to see Jackson on the Atlanta sidelines.
As a junior, Pierce recorded 38 tackles, tackles for 13 tackles and Tennessee’s 7.5 sacks.
He was selected for his first Team All Sec in 2023 and 2024.
Jackson played for Lady Vols three seasons after Mississippi State.
She earned WNBA All-Rookie Team Honors this past season and will launch her sophomore campaign on May 17th when she opened the 2025 WNBA season against the league’s latest expansion team, the Golden State Valkyries.
