Ethan Mackenny’s Family Legacy Fuels Georgia Tech’s Offensive Line

ATLANTA, Ga. — Georgia Tech‘s Ethan Mackenny, the starting left tackle for the No. 12-ranked Yellow Jackets, is no stranger to competition. The redshirt sophomore comes from a family of athletes that includes his mother Joannah, a former Georgia Tech basketball star, and his late grandfather, an NBA All-Star.

“I never won once against her,” Ethan said about his childhood basketball battles with his mom, who still ranks fourth in school history for blocked shots.

Mackenny’s return to prominence follows an injury that limited him to just four games last season. This year, he has helped lead an offense that ranks among the best in the nation, but the team is not content with just a high ranking; they aspire for more.

The Yellow Jackets are preparing to face ACC co-leader Duke this Saturday at Wallace-Wade Stadium. Duke’s defense, ranked fourth nationally in tackles for loss, poses a formidable challenge for Mackenny, who will go up against senior defensive end Vincent Anthony Jr.

Having experienced a challenging high school career, with a 10-30 record on varsity, Mackenny’s resilience shows. “Honestly, I’m just happy to be back playing, working hard with my teammates and my brothers,” he said of the team’s current 6-0 streak.

Joannah Mackenny recalls her son’s choice to stay with Lassiter High School instead of transferring for better opportunities. “He had to learn how to get back up on his feet,” she noted, highlighting the lessons learned through hard times.

Mackenny’s journey to Georgia Tech began when he committed to the school after a 3-9 season. He recalls, “I have trusted Coach Key from Day One. I knew this was the place I wanted to be.” As he solidified his place on the team, his work ethic and endless potential began to shine.

This season, Mackenny has a chance to showcase his skills, as Pro Football Focus ranks him as one of the top tackles in the nation in pass blocking. Fellow players commend his commitment to protecting their quarterback, Haynes King. “He’s always been in my corner,” Mackenny said.

As the Yellow Jackets prepare for Duke, Ethan Mackenny’s aspirations remain high. Once focused on basketball, he now embraces the gridiron, embodying the family spirit of competition. For now, the basketball rivalry with his mother will have to wait while he continues his football journey.