The WNBA star Rickea Jackson was one of the brightest stars in the Unrivaled league after her successful second season in the WNBA. But the first weekend of February 2026 brought concerning news with an incident in Miami that shook the NFL and WNBA fanbase.
Jackson’s boyfriend, James Pearce Jr., was arrested after ramming a Lamborghini into the WNBA star’s vehicle. Pearce plays in the NFL as a line breaker and was in contention for the Rookie Defensive Player of the Year award.
After arrest, the NFL star faced serious charges that included two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, as well as aggravated stalking and fleeing or eluding police with lights or sirens. Understanding the seriousness of the offence and charges, fans demanded severe punishment for the youngster.
Fans Demand Strict Action Against Rickea Jackson’s Ex-Boyfriend
The detailed reports showed a fearful sequence of events, as the report mentions that the NFL star stalked his ex from his car and tried to get into her car at an intersection. Trying to avoid him, the Sparks forward sped away.
But fearing the police complaint, Pearce Jr followed her to stop her from calling the police. But when the authorities closed in on the duo after receiving a formal complaint, he intentionally drove away and also attacked a police officer with his car.
If there is 1 single hair out of place on Rickea Jackson’s head I need James Pearce Jr. to get 4 life sentences with no parole pic.twitter.com/PYDUvFiBZq https://t.co/94RZNnk1Gf
— Hater Report (@HaterReport) February 8, 2026
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Finally, the law enforcement department arrested him as he crashed his car. Fans reacted to the situation.
A fan wrote, “10 year probation spended my league one year. Mandatory medical help.”
10 year probation spended my league one year. Mandatory medical help.
— Tony Bradley (@cigarlust_tony) February 8, 2026
One fan added, “4 life sentences with no parole.”
4 life sentences with no parole 💀 pic.twitter.com/bJLHwmC9iw
— ✌🏾RO RO & RZA TWIN🎤 (@RAllen18122159) February 8, 2026
Another fan said, “Extreme.”
Extreme
— Bryant Smith (@Supersmithboi) February 8, 2026
One fan mentioned, “Nice way to ruin a career!! What a dumbass!!!”
Nice way to ruin a career!! What a dumbass!!!
— Joseph Schiavone (@JosephSchiavo13) February 8, 2026
Another fam commented, “These man kids grow up so angry. You can’t even correct them when they do wrong.”
These man kids grow up so angry. You can’t even correct them when they do wrong.
— morethanlife (@yunqstpatrik) February 8, 2026
Although the fans’ sentiments were genuine and reflected their concerns for the ENBA star’s well-being, the matter proceeded to court on Sunday.
James Pearce Jr. Gets Bond From The Court
The law enforcement department presented the NFL star in court on Sunday. His advocate claimed that he can’t be punished, considering her professional status. But the judge neglected his professional and employment status, acknowledged the charges, and granted him a $20,500 bond. The judgment also includes a restraining order, which will keep him away from Jackson.
JUST NOW: James Pearce Jr. made his first court appearance while in a jail cell.
— Andy Slater (@AndySlater) February 8, 2026
The judge issued the Atlanta Falcons linebacker a total bond of $20,500 and a stay-away order from the alleged victim. https://t.co/eIcvpoccCL pic.twitter.com/hbwGYs7EgX
As per records, Pearce’s attorneys reassured the judge that the star will not be in contact with or near Rickea Jackson and once again gave his professional status as his guarantee. Fans also showed support for Jackson as the incident came to light. There are no updates on the WNBA star’s exact conditions as of now.