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In a surprising twist that has captured the attention of sports fans nationwide, Rickea Jackson, star player for the Los Angeles Sparks, is in a relationship with James Pearce Jr., the Atlanta Falcons' 2025 first-round NFL Draft pick.
Their connection became public during the NFL Draft on April 24, 2025, when ESPN cameras showed Jackson celebrating alongside Pearce in Charlotte, North Carolina. The moment was captured as Pearce was selected by the Falcons with the 26th overall pick, and Jackson was seen sitting next to him, rubbing his leg in .
Prior to this public appearance, Jackson had addressed rumors about her relationship status. In October 2024, she used a TikTok Live session to clarify that she was single, stating, "If I'm in a relationship, y'all would know. I'mma tell y'all. When I got a man, I would be like, 'That's my man.' When I don't have a man, I'm gonna say, 'I don't have a man.'" This clear statement put to rest any speculation about her personal life at that time.
Jackson, 24, has been making waves in the WNBA since being drafted fourth overall by the Sparks in 2024. She had a standout rookie season, earning All-Rookie honors and becoming the first rookie in WNBA history to score over 500 points in a single season.
Pearce's college career
Pearce, 21, also had an impressive college career at Tennessee, earning First-Team All-SEC honors in both 2023 and 2024 as an edge rusher. His selection by the Falcons marks the beginning of his professional football journey.
Their relationship has sparked excitement among fans, with many expressing their surprise and joy on social media.
One fan tweeted, "Is that Rickea??" while another wrote, "Fell to my knees when I saw Rickea Jackson sitting next to James Pearce Jr on draft night." Others are eager to see Jackson ing Pearce on the sidelines in Atlanta.
As Jackson prepares for her sophomore season with the Sparks, which begins on May 17 against the Golden State Valkyries, and Pearce embarks on his NFL career with the Falcons, fans will undoubtedly be watching both athletes closely, not just for their on-field performances but also for their budding relationship.