From Instagram to the Intercontinental Cup: Jackson Cowan’s Journey to one of FIBA’s Grandest Stages at the Singapore Sports Hub
- John Yeong
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Youth basketball influencer shares his journey ahead of world-class tournament at Singapore’s premier sporting venue
This is a feature article written by SportPlus.sg for Kallang Alive Sports Management. For more sports events, programmes and human stories of Singapore Sports Hub, visit the Singapore Sports Hub's 'Here to Play' website. Singapore is once again preparing to host a global sporting spectacle as the FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2025 tips off next month at the Singapore Indoor Stadium, Singapore Sports Hub.
Among the special guests is Jackson Cowan, a youth basketball influencer whose journey from the community courts to social media stardom has inspired young athletes across Singapore.
This year, Jackson won’t just be watching from the stands. He has been invited to play in the celebrity pro-am match, a dream opportunity to showcase his skills on one of Singapore’s grandest stages.
A Basketball Journey Inspired by Family
Basketball has been part of Jackson’s life for as long as he can remember. His earliest memories are tied to the game, thanks to his father’s love for the sport.
“I’ve been playing basketball my whole life, inspired by my dad, who started playing from a young age himself. Apparently, I first watched him play in the World Masters Games in Sydney when I was only eight weeks old!”
His father’s role has been more than just inspirational — he’s been a mentor, coach, and collaborator in Jackson’s journey.
“When I started my Instagram account, I was aspiring to play on the varsity basketball team. He instantly wanted to help me. Helping me manage communications on my channel, he became my coach and did everything he could to allow me to push myself as hard as I could in basketball, as well as creating content.”
Lessons That Stick On and Off the Court
Like many teenagers, Jackson admits he doesn’t remember every lesson from his parents — but one in particular has stayed with him.
“The lesson that I do remember is: ‘Jackson, sometimes you just need to put things behind you.’ If I miss a shot, I put it behind me and know I can make the next one. If I turn the ball over, I put it behind me and hustle back on defense. It’s also a great life lesson. Like Ted Lasso says, ‘Be a goldfish!’”
That mindset has shaped his disciplined daily routine.
“Most mornings I’m awake at 5:15 to be on the court from 6:15 to 7:45. I like creating schedules because they give me urgency to do what I need to get done. A good day for me is training in the morning, lifting weights in the afternoon, shooting some content, then ending the night editing videos or finishing homework. Lights out by 9:30 — day done!”
From Instagram to the FIBA Intercontinental Cup
As his social media presence grew, Jackson quickly became more than just a player. His blend of basketball highlights, training sessions, and behind-the-scenes content resonated with youth players across Singapore. But as much as he thrives online, he is eager to prove his skills on the hardwood.
“It can be assumed that the ‘basketball influencer’ can’t actually hoop — that he just makes himself look good on camera. But I want to show people that I’ve been working hard to earn the position I’m in right now.”
That opportunity comes at the FIBA Intercontinental Cup, where Jackson will lace up in front of the biggest audience of his young career.
“I am 100% nervous. It might be the largest audience I’ve ever played in front of. But I trust my preparation — once I get in the game, the nerves go away, and all my hard work shines through and I have a ton of fun playing!”
Learning From the Best at Singapore Sports Hub
For Jackson, one of the most exciting parts of the FIBA Intercontinental Cup will be the chance to learn from elite-level talent up close.
“I’m really excited to experience how high-level players perform — from walking into the locker room to exiting it hours later. The fun vibes, the deep breaths to stay calm, and the overall intensity players maintain throughout. I also look forward to seeing the camaraderie of the ICC teams from a closer vantage point.”
That experience will take place at none other than the Singapore Indoor Stadium at the Singapore Sports Hub, Singapore’s premier sporting venue.
From school gyms to a 12,000-seat arena, the jump is not lost on him.
“For me this is huge. I’ve only played in school gymnasiums and community centers. Playing in an arena of this size has the potential to be overwhelming — but bring it on!”
Beyond Basketball: Content, Creativity, and Challenges
While basketball remains his first love, Jackson is also passionate about content creation and filmmaking.
“I went to Prodigy Film Camp this summer which really piqued my interest in extending my content to filmmaking. And I’ve also done trial flights where I got to take over the controls of a plane — flying is something I really enjoy too.”
Of course, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. He recalls missing out on an Under-16 Division 1 team despite months of hard training.
“It wasn’t easy, but the encouragement I got from my family and my online community helped me bounce back. In hindsight, it gave me the chance to be the point guard on a Division 2 team, which I may not have had otherwise. That experience shaped me for the varsity team I was aiming for.”
His advice to young athletes trying to balance school, sports, and social life reflects the same maturity.
“You can’t do everything, or else you’ll do nothing. Pick your priorities and stick to them. For me, it’s basketball, content creation, and school. That sometimes means missing out on other things, but I know what I’m working towards.”
Looking Ahead
Jackson’s eyes remain firmly on the future — both on and off the court.
“I want to pursue basketball for as long as possible, and playing in college would be a dream. At the same time, I’m pushing myself in content creation too. To one day play professionally at the Singapore Sports Hub would be incredible.”
For now, though, all attention is on the FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2025 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. As the world’s best teams descend on Singapore, Jackson Cowan will be right there — not just as a spectator, but as part of the story. Fans interested to catch the FIBA Intercontinental Cup 2025, happening from 18-21 September 2025, can purchase your tickets via Singapore Sports Hub. #Basketball #mySgSportsHub #FIBAICC2025
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