For college programs looking for a late addition to their 2026 class, Jamal Pickering is a player to know. While a highly under the radar senior, the 6’5” wing has been having a tremendous grassroots season while playing for Gxfted Elite.

Pickering has been a real key to all the success of Gxfted Elite this spring on the NY2LA Association. This included going undefeated at each of the Grassroots Showcase, Spring Extravaganza, and NY2LA Sports Invitational tournaments this spring. “My season been going good so far my game has been improving and my shooting is getting better,” Pickering said.

Pickering has plenty of translatable tools for the next level. This includes being a 6’5” wing with a strong build as well to his great explosiveness. His athleticism was on full display at the NY2LA Spring Extravaganza with four dunks in a single game. Much more than just an athlete, he is a versatile two-way wing. He scores it well in a variety of ways but excels as a slasher. The wing has also shown a good ability to defend multiple positions very well.

While he is still very underrecruited for a player with all his abilities, Pickering has started to pick up greater interest. He is currently receiving interest from programs on a wide array of levels. This includes Bryant & Stratton, Bowling Green, Emmaus University, and Yakima Valley College who have all shown interest in him

Pickering is looking to make his college commitment in June. Pickering and Gxfted Elite will be playing in the NY2LA Next Level Invitational this weekend.