Former Pacers guard Stephen Jackson spent the weekend in Indianapolis after being invited by retired Colts wide receiver Reggie Wayne and event promoter Amp Harris.
Jackson has several ties to the state, including a stint in Fort Wayne early in his career, 1999, playing for the Fury of the CBA. He would later play for nine NBA franchises, including the Pacers from 2004-07.
Because of his role in the brawl with Detroit, most Pacers fans have negative feelings towards Jackson and his time in Indy. Inside the locker room, he was liked and took care of his guys. He gave thoughtful answers to the media and was one of the more engaging players.
Now 38 and having played in his last game in 2014 for the Los Angeles Clippers, Jackson appeared on dozens of episodes of ESPN’s The Jump, hosted by Rachel Nichols. He has suggested that he would like to try to play again — which is understandable because of the amount of money being spent on players.
But he says he's in the best shape of his life, and he's determined to give it a try. Love that he wants to.
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) July 10, 2016
Jackson is active on social media, mostly on Instagram. I’ve sorted through the most notable posts of the more than 30 he shared during his short stay in Indianapolis.
“Believe it or not I get a lot of love in Naptown.”
After arriving, Jackson went to the hotel and mentioned how he values a relaxing night in more than ever.
“I don’t really do too much no more, man. I used to hit the hit the city, straight to the strip club and turning up. That sh*t don’t have no value no more, man.”
As part of the trip, Jackson and others made a visit to the juvenile correction facility to speak with the juveniles in there. “It’s going to be beautiful,” he said prior to the visit off Keystone Avenue.
Jackson, a man of the people, shared several photos with police officers in light of the times. Spreading love, he says.
Then it was time to hit up the Black Expo Fair.
Jackson had a front row seat for the concerts held over the weekend.
And, from the airport, “Shoutout to Naptown.”