The young man on the right is Memphis bound 

The speculation was always up in the air.

Where will he go, they would say and then the scenarios would start to flow.

All along "The Real Thing" in his heart knew where his final destination would be.

The hometown kid staying around to help usher in a new era for a new coach and a new outlook for a program with a great deal of history and success.

Joe Jackson (White Station) as you may have figured out is staying home and will attend the University of Memphis and new coach Josh Pastner could not be more elated.

Jackson, who helped the Spartans win the Class AAA state championship last season, is a national treasure with aspirations of the McDonald's game and a future so bright he undoubtedly must wear shades.

He has been a star on the AAU circuit for three years playing for various teams and I recall my first encounter with him as an incoming freshman he attended our first ever Tennessee Prep Hoops Rankings and Exposure Showcase held that year at CPA in Nashville.

The scrawny little kid was beasting everyone in the camp and everyone in attendance were clamoring for a look at this young phenom.

I have enjoyed getting to know Joe and can't wait to see what he has in store for his upcoming senior campaign.

Memphis of course plays in Conference USA and has been a national power for years on end. Coach Pastner could not be more excited about the future addition of the kid who will be the cornerstone for his squad for many years to come.

Congrats Joe and good luck to you in all you do my friend.