Hancock Basketball's Dominic Jackson Signs with Texas A&M International

Allan Hancock College men's basketball player Dominic Jackson signed a national letter of intent to Texas A&M International University during a signing ceremony Wednesday inside Joe White Memorial Gymnasium on the Santa Maria campus.

"My heart is beating really fast, and it really hasn't hit me," said Jackson moments after signing. "I am really excited to get an opportunity to play at the next level and join a program that has a history of success."

Located in Laredo, Texas, Texas A&M International is a Division II-program that competes in the Heartland Conference. During the 2016-17 season, the Dustdevils earned a share of the program's fifth conference title. They finished the season 20-10 overall after a 13-5 record in conference action under head coach Bryan Weakley. During Weakley's five seasons as head coach, the Dustdevils have earned four postseason appearances, including a NCAA Division II Tournament bid in 2014.

"Last fall, we played at the Cerritos Showcase and the coach noticed my energy and attitude. He has kept in touch with me ever since and that meant a lot to me," said Jackson, who said he received interested from other Division II, III and NAIA schools. "I told them I want to redshirt next year to get stronger and improve my game. The coaching staff completely supported my decision and that made me want to play for them even more."

Jackson played in all 30 games for the Bulldogs during the 2016-17 season. The sophomore forward averaged 6.9 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. Jackson scored 10 or more points in 10 games, including a season-high 18 points against Santa Barbara City College. The 6-foot-8 sophomore transferred to Hancock from Central Wyoming College where he received a Region IX Academic Award.

"I knew this day was coming for Dominic because he exemplifies what a college student-athlete should be," said Tyson Aye, head coach of the Hancock men's basketball program. "He is a positive teammate and team captain, a Dean's List student, and a player who showed up every day to work hard and get better at his game. The entire Bulldog family is proud of Dominic, and we look forward to following his success at the next level."

Jackson plans to major in biology at TAMIU. He wants to earn a bachelor's degree and complete a master's degree in biology by the end of his senior year.

"I came to Hancock to improve my changes of signing with a four-year university, and it was the best decision I made," said Jackson. "I am grateful for the coaches, faculty, staff and my teammates for their support and guidance. I've always felt like part of the family here. "

He became the 14th former Hancock player to sign with four-year institutions under Aye, who completed his fourth season as head coach of the Bulldogs. More of Jackson's teammates are expected to sign in the coming weeks.

Last year, guard Matt Willkomm, a two-time All-Conference First Team selection and Arroyo Grande High School graduate, signed with Arizona Christian University. Other players who signed include: Arinze Anakwenze, Mississippi Valley State; Alioune Tew, Niagara; Andre Miller, Chadron State; Kadeem Minor, University of Antelope Valley; Lawrence Johnson, University of Antelope Valley; Isaiah Hicks, Pittsburg State; Marquis Rivera, University of Antelope Valley; Warren Dix-Helligar, Shorter University; Rijo Jackson, Northland College; Teyvon Myers, West Virginia University; Yuki Yashiro, Bethany College; Josh Varney, Peru State.