Rickea Jackson Had Plenty to Say About Rumored NFL Boyfriend James Pearce Jr.

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 14, 2025 12:50 PM ET

Looks like the "are-they-or-aren’t-they?" rumors surrounding WNBA star Rickea Jackson and newly drafted NFL defensive end James Pearce Jr. have gotten a little clearer, and a whole lot sweeter.

Speaking in an interview with USA Today's Meghan L. Hall, the Los Angeles Sparks forward finally opened up about the buzzed-about relationship. After fans spotted Jackson sitting front and center beside Pearce during his draft party in April, rubbing his leg and beaming as the Atlanta Falcons selected him, social media went into full-blown matchmaking mode. But despite all the speculation, neither had officially confirmed their relationship until now.

“It was cute that he said that,” Jackson shared, responding to a viral clip of Pearce Jr. naming her as his favorite athlete. “People are in the comments taking it the wrong way. They were saying, ‘Right now, who’s your favorite athlete?’ But I love him so much.”

Yup, she said love.

Rickea Jackson has never met an outfit she didn’t love.

I recently sat down with the young star to talk about her “iconic” fashion, NFL boyfriend, James Pearce Jr. and more.

My interview with the Sparks forward:https://t.co/1md66mOPGv
— Meghan L. Hall (@ItsMeghanLHall) July 14, 2025

Jackson didn’t stop there. When asked what she admires most about Pearce Jr.’s game, she said:

“I would just have to say the speed that he comes off the edge with. He’s very intimidating. He’s huge. He’s put on some good weight for his position, and his mindset as well. The way that he looks at things, his smartness on the field, it doesn’t go unnoticed.”

“I’m just excited to watch how he grows in the league as a rookie and be there every step of the way,” she added. “But I’m just so proud of him and how far he’s come, knowing his journey. I feel like the Atlanta Falcons have a great one on their hands.”

Jackson and Pearce Jr. both starred at the University of Tennessee; she dominated on the hardwood, and he wreaked havoc on SEC quarterbacks. Now, with Jackson in the WNBA and Pearce Jr. beginning his NFL journey, the former Volunteers are taking their talents to the professional level.

From sweet sideline moments to heartfelt interviews, it’s safe to say Jackson and Pearce Jr. are winning both on and off the field, and fans are here for it.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: