Los Angeles Sparks forward and Detroit native Rickea Jackson returned to her roots Monday as her alma mater, Detroit Edison Public School Academy, officially retired her No. 2 jersey.

The ceremony, held on Dec. 23, honored Jackson’s legacy at the school where she led the Pioneers to three consecutive state championships and earned the title of Michigan Miss Basketball in 2019. The event brought together family, former coaches, and the current student body to celebrate one of the most decorated players in the program's history.

Jackson’s high school career was defined by dominance. A 2019 McDonald’s All-American, she finished her tenure at Detroit Edison as the school’s all-time leading scorer before moving on to a collegiate career at Mississippi State and the University of Tennessee.

The retirement ceremony featured a video tribute highlighting her journey from the Detroit Edison gym to the WNBA stage. Jackson was visibly moved as the banner featuring her name and number was unveiled in the rafters of the gymnasium.

The milestone follows a breakout professional season for Jackson. Selected fourth overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft, she quickly established herself as a cornerstone for the Sparks, earning a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team. She finished her debut season as the team’s leading scorer, averaging 13.4 points per game and shooting 47.1% from the field.

The Los Angeles Sparks and various media outlets celebrated the event on social media alongside photos of Jackson holding a framed version of her jersey.

The event served as a homecoming for Jackson, who has frequently credited her Detroit upbringing for the "grit and toughness" she displays on the court. Members of the Detroit Edison community noted that while Jackson’s jersey will no longer be worn on the court, her influence remains a permanent fixture within the athletic program.