Big things continue to happen around the Pikeville High School basketball program, and the latest came earlier this week when senior Jackson Keene announced his commitment to play college basketball at the University of Pikeville.

Keene received the offer on January 10 and made it official days later, calling the opportunity “blessed” in a post on social media.

The senior has been a steady force for the Panthers all season. As of press time, Keene leads Pikeville with 288 points, averaging 19.2 points per game. He is shooting 52 percent from the field, 40.9 percent from three-point range and 84.6 percent from the free-throw line. Keene has also pulled down 56 rebounds this season, ranking fourth on the team.

Along the way, Keene’s performances have earned recognition from Mountain Top Sports, including multiple Community Trust Player of the Game honors and a Buffalo Wild Wings Player of the Week award.

Keene is expected to bring instant offensive firepower to the UPIKE Bears, who are currently enjoying a strong season in Appalachian Athletic Conference standings.

For Pikeville, the commitment marks another milestone for a program that continues to develop talent ready for the next level.