Jackson Mallory (31) looks to shoot for two as Lawrence High played Blue Valley Thursday at the Blue Valley Shoot-Out.

For as long as Jackson Mallory can remember, he’s been a part of Lawrence High basketball programs.

When Mallory was growing up, his mother, Kristin, was the head coach for the girls basketball team, leading the Lions to a 104-72 record in eight seasons with a state title in 2008.

That meant Mallory had a front row seat to most games, serving as the de facto team manager. He filled up water bottles for players. He handed out towels. Then, of course, he ran around the gym.

Now Mallory will have a much different view when he steps on the court for tonight’s City Showdown at Allen Fieldhouse — the girls start at 6:30 p.m. and the boys follow at 8 p.m.

“Being able to play at her high school, just being able to represent Lawrence High against Free State, it’s just a blessing,” Mallory said.

Mallory is the only returning starter for the Lions (3-1) and he’s filled a much larger role after helping Lawrence to third place in Class 6A with a 22-3 record.

Through the first four games, Mallory has averaged nine points. With a young lineup that features plenty of sophomores — Noah Butler, Brett Chapple, Clarence King and Trey Quartlebaum — Mallory has transformed from the younger guy on the team into the veteran.

And there’s still that intensity on the court that his mom brought to the LHS sidelines.

“Just coming in after being the fifth option, then coming into the first or second option now — senior leader — it’s definitely different,” Mallory said. ‘But I know I just have to do the same thing and play my same game. Just show better leadership for the young guys, show them what they can do and make sure they play their role.”

The Lions took third place at the Blue Valley Shootout last week, picking up wins against Highland Park and Lee’s Summit (Mo.) North sandwiched around a 26-point loss to Blue Valley.

One of the things that stands out from Mallory’s time on the court is the way he sees plays develop. He’s a sharpshooter but has strong vision when he makes passes.

“He does have a good basketball IQ,” Lawrence coach Mike Lewis said. “I think when you grow up around the game, you see different things and different angles and understand things, maybe, a little differently than kids who haven’t.”

Mallory said it’s a little difficult trying not to do too much on the court with younger teammates than the past few seasons.

“It’s just been a pleasure having him as a leader on our team the last couple of years,” Lewis said. “He continues to make strides in his leadership. He’s working toward becoming a better leader each day, each game, as all of our guys are.”

Despite growing up around the program, Mallory said there’s still something special each time he suits up against Free State (2-1, ranked No. 9 in 6A).

“I actually called Kobe (Buffalomeat) last night around 11 o’clock and said I couldn’t feel my legs,” Mallory said Thursday. “I’m very nervous. But we are ready.”

Allen Fieldhouse ticket and parking information

• Ticket prices: $7 for an adult; $5 for students. Everyone must buy a ticket. No student activity tickets, staff IDs, senior passes or season tickets will be permitted for this event. Fans can purchase tickets in advance at both high schools, Lawrence Hy-Vee stores or buy them at the door.
• Free parking is available in lots near the fieldhouse. It will cost money to park in the garage. The lot directly south of the fieldhouse is reserved for buses, game workers, officials, KU staff and high school administrations. Fans must enter through the east doors, which open at 5:30 p.m.
• High school student seating will be behind the goals: Free State on the north and LHS on the south. Fan seating is restricted to the lower two levels of the fieldhouse.