During the recent NFL Draft, WNBA star Rickea Jackson caught attention when she was seen celebrating alongside James Pearce Jr., a former Tennessee football player. This moment unfolded as NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced Pearce as the 26th overall pick by the Atlanta Falcons. The scene shifted to Pearce’s home in North Carolina, where family and friends were in high spirits.
Jackson, who plays for the Los Angeles Sparks, appeared to be enjoying the moment, smiling and embracing Pearce as the excitement unfolded. Their interactions sparked rumors about a potential romance, a topic that has been buzzing for over a year. Both athletes share a connection, having attended the University of Tennessee.
In response to the viral videos of the evening, Jackson took to social media to address the chatter. She humorously suggested that she has a “doppelganger,” which resonated with many of her followers. Her post garnered significant attention, amassing over 1.7 million views soon after.
Jackson’s basketball journey began at Mississippi State, but she truly shined during her time with Tennessee. The Sparks selected her in the first round of the WNBA Draft in 2024, where she made an impressive debut, averaging 13.4 points per game in her rookie season.
On the football side, Pearce had a standout career at Tennessee, finishing his last season with 7½ sacks. The Falcons, who struggled with their pass rush last season, traded valuable draft picks to secure Pearce, hoping he can bolster their defense.
As the draft unfolded, the excitement around both athletes highlighted their achievements and the connections formed through their college experiences. With Jackson and Pearce both making headlines, fans are eager to see where their careers take them next.