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Rickea Jackson · Through her trademark, calm-as-always disposition, Rickea Jackson sat down during the WNBA’s “Year 1” docuseries, reflecting on the type of mentality she’d strive for during her rookie season before ultimately settling on a few traits: matching opponents’ physicality and being the first to be aggressive. On May 28, 2024 — the first start of her already-compelling career — the 2024 No. 4 pick found the perfect situation to put action behind those thoughts. Athletically gifted enough to withstand the Indiana Fever’s fastbreak, even against a 5-on-4 numbers disadvantage, Jackson stands tall in the paint, absorbing Lexie Hull’s pass attempt entirely with a physical steal before ultimately drawing her own foul just moments later. Assertive in her approach from the game’s literal opening play, Jackson impressed in front of the near-sellout crowd, helping the Los Angeles Sparks prevail. In a matchup that also featured the No. 1 and No. 2 picks in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Jackson shined amongst the rising stars, providing 12 points, two steals, and one 3-pointer in 23 minutes. · State of Mint