Hawks great Dominique Wilkins’ son, Jacob Wilkins, discusses paving his own way and securing his future at UGA.

Jacob Wilkins, son of NBA Hall of Famer and Atlanta Hawks legend Dominique Wilkins, is making headlines as he embarks on his own basketball journey. Despite the towering presence of his father’s legacy, Jacob is determined to build his own identity as a player, and his commitment to the University of Georgia (UGA) is a crucial step in that direction.

Choosing Georgia: A Decision of Heart and Strategy

Jacob, a 6-foot-9 small forward from Grayson High School in Loganville, Georgia, had no shortage of options when it came to college recruitment. Highly ranked among the 2025 recruiting class, he fielded offers from several top programs, including Virginia. However, his decision to commit to UGA was both sentimental and strategic.

“It just felt like home,” Jacob said in a recent interview. “I trust everyone there to put me in the right position, and I know I have the ability to make my own name there. Even though my last name is well known, I want to create my own legacy.”

While his father played for the Bulldogs from 1979 to 1982 before moving on to an illustrious NBA career, Jacob insists that his choice was about more than following in his father’s footsteps. He sees UGA as a place where he can thrive, develop his skills, and make a mark in his own right.

The Influence of a Basketball Icon

Growing up as the son of Dominique Wilkins, famously nicknamed “The Human Highlight Reel,” Jacob has had access to invaluable mentorship. But while many might assume the pressure would be overwhelming, Jacob embraces it as motivation.

“To see his growth and where he’s come from to now and his progression, man, he’s become a heck of a young player,” Dominique Wilkins said. “He’s almost 6-11 now at 17 years old, so I couldn’t be more proud of him and his focus and his love for the game.”

Dominique has been a key figure in Jacob’s development, offering advice not just on the game but also on handling expectations and the mental side of being an elite athlete. However, Jacob is adamant that he wants to forge his own path and step out of his father’s shadow.

Rising Star: Jacob’s Development and Game Style

Jacob’s basketball journey has been marked by rapid improvement and high expectations. Before transferring to Grayson High School, he showcased his talent at Parkview, where he averaged 19 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists per game during his sophomore season. His combination of size, athleticism, and versatility makes him a promising prospect in the 2025 class.

Scouts have noted his ability to play both in transition and in half-court settings. Adam Finkelstein, 247Sports’ director of scouting, described Jacob as “a budding big wing who is loaded with natural tools and talent but is only in the beginning stages of putting it all together.”

While still refining aspects of his game, Jacob’s strengths lie in his shooting ability, court vision, and defensive versatility. As he continues to grow into his frame and expand his skill set, the expectations for his college career and beyond are soaring.

UGA’s Growing Basketball Program

Jacob’s commitment is a huge win for UGA, which has been making strides under coach Mike White. The Bulldogs recently landed five-star power forward Asa Newell for the 2024 class, signaling a shift towards attracting top-tier talent. Jacob’s addition further strengthens Georgia’s status in the SEC and bolsters their competitiveness in upcoming seasons.

For Georgia, landing a player with Wilkins’ pedigree is significant not just from a talent perspective but also in terms of program prestige. His presence will likely draw more attention to the team and potentially help recruit additional elite prospects.

The Road Ahead: Building His Own Legacy

Despite the inevitable comparisons to his father, Jacob remains focused on his individual journey. He acknowledges both the advantages and challenges of carrying the Wilkins name but is determined to define his own success.

“I know people are going to compare me to my dad, and that’s fine,” Jacob said. “But at the end of the day, I have to put in the work, and I have to prove myself. I want to be the best version of me.”

With his commitment to UGA, Jacob Wilkins is taking the next step in what could be a remarkable basketball career. As he prepares to don the Bulldogs’ jersey, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how he shapes his own legacy—one built on hard work, dedication, and the drive to stand out on his own terms.