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Rickea Jackson Has Priceless Reaction To Question Involving Her Boyfriend

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Madz Dizon | Last updated May 21, 2025 7:44 PM ET

Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson had a funny and unforgettable moment during a press conference.

When a reporter asked her about one celebrity she wants to see come to the arena this year, other than James Pearce Jr., her eyes grew wide, and her mouth dropped open in surprise before she broke into a smile.

The unexpected question clearly caught Jackson off guard. Her playful and shocked reaction was recorded and quickly shared online by Bleacher Report.

Jackson and James Pearce Jr., a football player for the Atlanta Falcons, have been dating since their college days at the University of Tennessee. The couple was seen together on national TV during the 2025 NFL Draft. Pearce was picked in the first round and Jackson was sitting proudly by his side as his name was called.

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Their sweet relationship has gained attention since then. Earlier this year, Pearce was asked who his favorite athlete was. Without hesitation, he said, “Rickea Jackson.”

When asked what he liked most about her game, he replied, “Everything… fluid, smooth, sound, technical.” But when someone asked if he would ever play one-on-one against her, he laughed and dodged the question, saying, “Let’s not talk about that.”

While the press conference moment was fun, Jackson is currently missing time on the court. She was ruled out for the Sparks’ game against the Phoenix Mercury because she is in concussion protocol.

Jackson suffered a facial injury late in a game against the Minnesota Lynx and did not travel with the team to Phoenix. The Sparks are already dealing with other injuries, so her absence is a big loss.

Before getting hurt, Jackson played two games this season. She scored 13 points in the season opener against the Golden State Valkyries and added eight points in the next game.

Even while recovering, Jackson continues to make headlines—not just for her basketball skills, but for her fun personality and strong support system. Whether she’s on the court or off it, Rickea Jackson is always a star to watch.

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

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