Jackson Noll is an Underrated Underdog
Forever an underdog is typed out in small white text at the top of Jackson Noll’s Twitter profile. In a way, this simple statement embodies everything that Noll is about. He stands at just 5-foot-11, he doesn’t have eye-widening athleticism, or…
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Continue ReadingForever an underdog is typed out in small white text at the top of Jackson Noll’s Twitter profile. In a way, this simple statement embodies everything that Noll is about. He stands at just 5-foot-11, he doesn’t have eye-widening athleticism, or even a positive wingspan. Based purely on appearance, Noll would likely be picked in the later rounds for a pickup basketball game.
But this is how he likes it. The Cuba City guard has embraced the underdog role. There are countless Wisconsin prospects who possess more desirable traits than Noll. Yet, he always seems to compete. He may not come out victorious after every bout, but Noll gives all he has every single time his shoes touch the hardwood.
“I love being in the gym, whether it is by myself working on skills or in a packed gym playing a big game,” said Noll.
Practicing in solitude has allowed Noll to perform at the highest level when the bleachers are packed. The nights in the gym where the dribble of his basketball was the only echo bouncing off the walls seem lonely but are well worth the sacrifice.
Noll is beginning to see the fruits of his labor. He averaged 8.8 points per game on a talented Cuba City squad as a junior and is beginning to earn some college interest.
“I have been talking with many Midwest D3s and NAIA schools. I am pretty open with my recruitment, I want to find the right fit for me, a place where I can thrive on and off the court.”
The guard will look to end his high school career on a positive note. ” [I want to] Have a successful team season like everyone says “go to state”, but ultimately is to get the most out of myself, be a leader by encouraging, supporting, and motivating my teammates,” he said.
Noll put his leadership skills on display during his last AAU tournament with Wisconsin Academy. In a bracket play game aginst Minnesota Magic, Noll struggled to get his shots to fall. He was getting open looks but was not finding the net. Instead of letting his poor offensive performance sway his attitude into a negative direction, Noll cheered on his teammates and was the best leader on the floor. Whether he is scoring or not, Noll always contributes to his team in some way.