The wait is finally over for Memphis fans.

Joe Jackson, the heralded 5'11", 160-lb. point guard out of White Station High School in Memphis, Tennessee, officially committed to play basketball for the Memphis Tigers today outside of the Larry Finch Center.

For most, the announcement comes as a formality; many people expressed the sentiment that Joe Jackson would be a Tiger from day one.

Now, the conjecture and speculation can officially cease. Joe Jackson chose Memphis over Tennessee and Kansas.

"I made the decision my sophomore year," Jackson told the assembled crowd, including his entire family. "I just decided to hold off (on announcing)."

Even though Jackson has a good relationship with new Tiger head man Josh Pastner--"I talk to Josh Pastner everyday"--this decision really was not about the coach, it was about the city and the player.

"They (the Tiger program) lost a good coach, but they brought another good one in. But it really wasn't about him. This was my decision."

When asked why he selected the University of Memphis, Jackson looked as if he didn't even understand the question.

"I've always wanted to play for Memphis my whole life," he said emphatically.

"It's the fan base," he continued. "The fans are so passionate about this team."



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