Darnell Jackson
6-8, 240, Center
Midwest City High, Midwest City, Okla.
2002-03 averages: 20 points, 12 rebounds, 5 blocks.
Rivals.com national ranking: 52.
Chose Kansas over: Oklahoma, Purdue, Oklahoma State, Illinois.
Fact of interest: Former football player has played basketball since 9th grade. ... One of his best friends is KU freshman J.R. Giddens of Oklahoma City.
Jackson says: "I've wanted to go to KU a long time, ever since I first went to Late Night (two years ago). I love coach Self and the way he coaches. ... I love to crash the boards, run the floor and do what it takes to win the game."
Self says: "Darnell is a big, wide body. With that body and that ability, he can help us. He's a rebounder, offensive board guy, active body. He is time away skill-wise. We feel that will come."
KUSports.com  11/13/03