FSU basketball: FSU suspends guard Chandler Jackson indefinitely

FSU basketball coach Leonard Hamilton announced yesterday that guard Chandler Jackson is suspended indefinitely from the team. Hamilton did not give any specific details on the suspension so it is unclear at this time what transpired.

Chandler Jackson is a 6’5″ and 215lb sophomore point guard from Christian Brothers in Memphis, Tennessee. Jackson was a four-star recruit in FSU’s 2022 class and the No. 84 overall player in 2022.

The scouting report for Jackson per Jerry Meyer from 24/7 Sports:

"“Has a tremendous physical build for a combo guard. Strong and long. Not a huge leaper but makes plays in traffic with his powerful athleticism. A very efficient ball handler. Gets to his spots with precision. Has an array of finishes off the dribble. At his best scoring off the dribble. Also keeps the defense honest with his ability to catch and shoot. Sees the floor well and can distribute as well as score. Is a formidable defender and rebounder.”"

Last season Chandler averaged 12 MPG, 3.6 PPG, 40.2 FG%, 1.3 RPG, 1.3 APG. He got more playing time due to injuries FSU basketball sustained at the guard position. His best two games last season were against Miami and Boston College, where he had 10 pts and 2 assists.

In my off-season report earlier this year, I had Jackson listed as competing with Jalen Warley for the starting point guard spot this season. The Noles brought in Josh Nickelberry 6’4″ and 205 pound senior transfer from La Salle ’23, and Primo Spears 6’3″ and 185, junior transfer from Georgetown ’23 from the transfer portal, which will help with the depth at guard.

This is definitely not something Florida State needs right now after the injuries depleted the team last season. While it’s not clear if Jackson would play major minutes this year, it’s still a player that’s familiar with how Leonard Hamilton likes to do things. Depending on the situation and if Jackson has a shot to come back this season at all, could Hamilton and staff look back into the portal for a guard to come in and play this season?

It’ll be tough with so many new faces since Hamilton’s success usually depends on experience and continuity in his system.