Graduation season is here, and the celebrations are heating up! Natalia Bryant—yep, Kobe Bryant’s daughter—just crushed her college graduation with a film degree, while Jacob Wilkins, Dominique Wilkins’ son, is closing the chapter on high school. But don’t sleep on the smaller wins – like Skylar Jackson, Stephen Jackson’s daughter, who just graduated from elementary school, proving every step counts. These young stars are carrying powerful legacies while making their own waves—and honestly, watching them grow up is pretty heartening.
A 6-foot-8 forward from Washington, N.C., Dominique Wilkins landed in Athens back in the fall of 1979 and wasted no time making his mark. As a freshman, he led the Bulldogs in scoring with 18.6 points per game. By his sophomore year, that number jumped to 23.6 points per game—tops in the SEC. And in his junior year, his last with the Bulldogs, he averaged 21.3 points. “Those were the fun days, man,” Dominique said with a laugh. Now, those same “fun days” are coming full circle as his son Jacob wraps up his high school journey and starts making his mark.
Dominique Wilkins, famously known as “The Human Highlight Film,” shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, celebrating his son’s milestone with the world. He wrote, “Class of 2025… Proud Dad Moment! Congratulations, son! Watching you walk across that stage was an unforgettable moment. It feels like just yesterday you were reaching my kneecap, now you’re standing tall—not just in height, but in character, drive, and heart. Jacob, you continue to make me proud every single day. This is just the beginning of your next chapter. UGA, get ready, here comes a real one! Keep striving for greatness. I’ll always be in your corner. Go Dawgs!”
Jacob Wilkins, 18, is carving out his own path at Grayson High School, having already earned the nickname “Baby Highlight”—though perhaps “not so baby” fits better, since at 6’9”, he’s already outgrown Dominique’s 6’8”. Born in Lilburn, Georgia, Jacob has been leading his team to a stellar 25-2 record, pushing Grayson to the #1 spot in the state.
On the individual front too, Jacob’s making serious noise. He’s ranked #43 by On3 and #53 by ESPN. In 2024, he was ranked #5 in Georgia by ON3 and #27 nationally by 247 Sports. He’s battled it out with the sons of Carmelo Anthony and LeBron James in high-flying dunk contests, reportedly showing off jaw-dropping hops and even throwing down a reverse jam. Now committed to UGA, Jacob is set to carry forward the Wilkins legacy and make waves with the Georgia Bulldogs – just like his father did before him.
Jacob Wilkins reflects on carrying forward ‘Highlight’ legacy
Jacob Wilkins knew exactly where he wanted to be. The Grayson High School standout didn’t overthink it when the time came to choose a college. “It really wasn’t a difficult decision for me,” he said while talking to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “I always knew that Georgia was home. I felt great going up there, the visits and everything, and I just felt loved by the coaching staff. The decision wasn’t as hard as some people think and I feel like I made the right decision.” He turned down Virginia—where his brother Isaiah is an assistant coach—to stay close to his roots. For Jacob, this isn’t just a basketball move. It’s about legacy, family, and stepping into a story that’s already been written in Athens… with a pen of his own.
And make no mistake—he’s his own player. “I always try to make my own thing,” Jacob said. “Because if I’m living up to somebody else, then that’s not going to be in my best interest.” The comparisons to his father are inevitable, but Jacob’s game is built differently. At 6’9”, he’s all length and bounce, a walking highlight reel in his own right.
The junior Wilkins flies in transition, finishes lobs with ease, and slashes to the rim with a smooth, fluid motion. He reads the floor well, constantly moving without the ball, and knows exactly where to be. But he’s not just a dunker. He’s expanded his shooting range—comfortable popping out in pick-and-rolls, knocking down spot-up jumpers, and pulling defenders out of the paint. There’s polish to his game, and the ceiling is high. “Athleticism is the first thing that stands out,” reported Sports Illustrated—but Jacob is proving there’s much more behind the bounce.
Still, that Wilkins blood runs deep. He proudly rocks the No. 21 jersey, a tribute to more than just his dad. “Wearing No. 21 means everything,” he said. “A lot of people in my family were No. 21… my dad, of course, my brother, my uncles, my cousins. It’s a big family name, and it’s really a legacy.” He’s taken all the lessons in—“He’s always telling me to run as fast as I can, give 110% every time”—but also keeps things light. “The thing is, I never beat him because he never played me after I got older… but I’m pretty sure I would beat him if we played today.”
So as Dominique Wilkins beams with pride, Jacob isn’t just following in his footsteps—he’s taking flight in his own direction. UGA fans, get ready: the next chapter of #21 has arrived.
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