Jackie Young, the rising basketball star known for her versatility and skill, was born on September 16, 1997, in Princeton, Indiana, making her American by nationality. Raised by her mother, Linda Young, a nurse, Jackie grew up alongside two siblings in a household that faced its share of financial challenges, food insecurity, and difficulties. Despite these obstacles, Linda’s unwavering support helped Jackie pursue her dream of basketball greatness, showing how vital a strong family foundation is for any athlete aspiring to reach the top.
During her time at Princeton Community High School, Jackie quickly stood out on the court. She became the all-time leading scorer not only in girls’ basketball but also surpassed the boys, highlighting her extraordinary talent early on. Her remarkable performance included setting a state championship record with 36 points in the 2015 final, leading her team to victory and signaling the beginning of a promising career.
Following her high school achievements, Young attended the University of Notre Dame, where she played from 2016 to 2019. Known as the “Silent Assassin,” she averaged 14.7 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. Jackie’s relentless work ethic and contributions on both offense and defense helped Notre Dame secure a national championship in 2018, while she earned the ACC Tournament MVP title in 2019. Her collegiate success laid a firm foundation for her professional career.
Jackie Young’s National and International Achievements in Basketball
Jackie Young’s impact reaches far beyond college basketball as she has become a key player for Team USA. She has earned two Olympic gold medals: one in 3×3 basketball in 2020 and another in 5v5 basketball at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the United States triumphed over France in the gold medal game. Her exceptional agility on the court and defensive prowess have earned her a reputation as a player opponents dread to face. Even the respected coach Becky Hammon acknowledged this by stating,
You don’t want Jackie Young guarding you.
—Becky Hammon, WNBA Coach
As a member of the Las Vegas Aces, Jackie has been instrumental in their success alongside stars like A’ja Wilson, contributing to multiple championships. With teammates like Wilson and a strong championship pedigree, Young continues to elevate her game and is now stepping into an even bigger role offensively following the departure of Kelsey Plum. The question remains whether she can lead Las Vegas to yet another title amid these changes.
Exploring Jackie Young’s Ethnic Heritage
Fans and followers of Jackie Young are often curious about her ethnic background. Jackie proudly identifies as African-American, a heritage shared by both her parents. This identity, imbued with pride, faith, and cultural values, is reflected in Jackie’s grounded persona and her respectful approach both on and off the court. Her heritage is a significant part of what shapes her character and determination in sports.
Jackie Young’s Faith and Religious Beliefs
Faith plays an important role in Jackie Young’s life, as she is a committed Christian. Throughout her high school years, Jackie was active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), where she deepened her Christian beliefs. She is open about her faith, often sharing Bible verses and taking moments to pray with her teammates. This spiritual foundation supports her resilience and focus, providing strength amid the pressures of professional competition.
Looking Ahead: Jackie Young’s Promising Future in Basketball
At just 27 years old, Jackie Young’s journey is far from over. Her blend of skill, faith, and cultural pride fuels a determined and hopeful outlook on her career. With an expanded role on the Las Vegas Aces following recent roster changes, Young is poised to showcase her leadership and versatility more than ever before. Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness whether she can guide the Aces to a third championship within four years, continuing to build on her impressive legacy.