Source close to the situation has confirmed #1-ranked 2016 Justin Jackson will skip the U17 FIBA World Championships taking place in Dubai during August due to injury.

Jackson the 6’7″ blue chip Canadian prospect made a transition from Eastern Commerce (Toronto, ON) to Findlay Prep (Las Vegas, NV) in September of 2013. During his first season south of the border Jackson moved into 5th place on the Findlay Prep records for guards/ wings in shooting 59% FG on the season.

Following his first season south of the border, any questions surrounding his status as the nations top 2016 were put to rest with strong showings on the AAU circuit with Under Armour flagship program Canada Elite. Also his display at the NBAPA camp in June.

Touted as the top player in the 2016 Canadian class since he was 10 years old, Jackson (two years away from collegiate life) has all ready received a long list of scholarship offers including full rides from prominent programs Louisville & Florida both ran by hall of fame coaches Rick Pitino & Billy Donovan respectively.

Source told Hoops Hype Canada that Jackson opting out of international duty will instead spend time in Toronto nursing a knee injury under the guidance of former Raptors personal trainer Isaac Levy.

Rehabilitation specialist Isaac Levy is also known as a functional strengthening and conditioning coach to well-known celebrities, NHL and NBA athletes including former Raptors stand-out Vince Carter.

Source also told Hoops Hype Canada that the 2016 Jackson camp is weighing the pros and cons of his school plans for September. A return to Findlay is still a ‘strong’ possibility for Jackson but prominent programs IMG Academy, FL (renowned for rehabilitation) and Brewster Academy, NH (option to utilize a fifth year south of the border) are both serious candidates to land the 6’7″ versatile talent known for his cerebral court vision and passing ability.

Montrose Christian Academy in Maryland where current NBA MVP Kevin Durant and Raptor Greivis Vasquez attended prep school will also make a serious pitch this week other reliable sources have also confirmed.

May the sweepstakes for Justin Jackson’s signature and services in 2014-15 begin, but more importantly, a speedy recovery.