Drugs: The Death of Another Star

The Death of Another Star

As a standout guard for the University of Texas at El Paso, Hernell ("Jeep") Jackson, 23, was a local hero in a basketball-crazy city. His stunning leaps and savvy playmaking had helped his team win four Western Athletic Conference titles. Drafted this spring, he was headed for the U.S. Basketball League's Philadelphia Aces. Then early this month, during a benefit game, he collapsed and died.

As in the case of University of Maryland Basketball Star Len Bias, who died in similar circumstances last year, no one suspected that Jackson had been using drugs. "Jeep had this responsibility and maturity that was...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!