Derrick Jones Jr. has played in 497 games during his NBA career and accumulated 10,084 minutes in those contests. Jones has started in 218 contests, and in those games he holds a rate of 7.2 points per outing and is sitting with 3,590 points overall. He accounts for 12.8 points per 36 minutes, in addition to snagging 5.8 rebounds and adding 1.3 assists so far in his pro basketball career. By putting in 1,349 baskets out of his 2,660 tries, Jones has tallied a 50.7% FG%. By knocking down 321 of his 987 shots from distance, he has compiled a 3pt rate of 32.5%. By making 1,028 out of 1,673 two-point shots, he has recorded a rate of 61.4%. Jones has made 571 of 809 shots at the charity stripe, which gave him a percentage of 70.6%. Stepping onto the court with an effective FG% of 56.7%, he has additionally tallied 932 personal fouls and 311 giveaways. Having pulled down 1,036 defensive boards and 594 on the offensive end of the court, Jones has tallied 1,630 rebounds in total in his pro basketball career. He is sitting with 345 steals, in addition to 314 blocks and 366 assists. When discussing per game stats, Jones sports an average of 0.7 assists in addition to 3.3 rebounds.
Born on February 15, 1997, in Chester, Pennsylvania, Derrick Jones Jr. developed a passion for basketball at an early age. Growing up in a city with a rich basketball history, he was inspired by local legends and driven by a desire to make his mark on the sport. He attended Archbishop John Carroll High School, where he quickly made a name for himself as a standout player. His high school career was marked by numerous accolades, including being named to the All-Catholic League first team multiple times.
Jones’s athleticism was evident from the start, and his ability to dominate the game with his high-flying dunks caught the attention of college scouts nationwide. His performances in high school tournaments and all-star games showcased his potential to succeed at higher levels. He committed to play college basketball at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he continued to refine his skills. His decision was influenced by UNLV’s reputation for developing athletic wings and providing a platform for players to transition to the NBA.
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College Career at UNLV
Derrick Jones Jr. joined the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels for the 2015-2016 season. Although his college career was brief, it was impactful. During his time at UNLV, Jones showcased his athleticism and defensive prowess, averaging 11.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game. His ability to electrify crowds with his dunks and defensive plays made him a fan favorite and a focal point of the team’s offense and defense.
Unfortunately, his college career was cut short due to eligibility issues, which led him to declare for the 2016 NBA Draft. Despite the setback, Jones’s performance at UNLV had already made him a player to watch. His brief but impressive stint at UNLV demonstrated his NBA potential, and his decision to enter the draft was met with intrigue and anticipation from scouts and analysts alike.
Entering the NBA
Derrick Jones Jr. went undrafted in the 2016 NBA Draft, but his journey to the NBA was far from over. Going undrafted was a setback, but it did not deter Jones from pursuing his NBA dreams. He joined the Sacramento Kings for the 2016 NBA Summer League, where his performances caught the eye of the Phoenix Suns. The Suns signed him to a contract in September 2016, offering him a chance to prove himself on the professional stage.
Jones’s time with the Suns provided him with the opportunity to prove himself in the NBA. He made his debut on November 19, 2016, and gradually began to earn more playing time. His incredible athleticism and highlight-reel dunks quickly made him a fan favorite. Despite the initial challenges of adapting to the NBA’s pace and physicality, Jones’s determination and work ethic helped him secure a spot in the league.
Breakthrough with the Miami Heat
In December 2017, Derrick Jones Jr. signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat, marking a turning point in his career. This move allowed him to split his time between the Heat and their G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce. The Heat recognized his potential and converted his contract to a standard NBA deal in July 2018. This transition to a full-time NBA role was a testament to his hard work and the faith the organization had in his abilities.
With the Miami Heat, Jones began to make a significant impact. His defensive skills and ability to finish at the rim made him a valuable asset for the team. During the 2019-2020 season, he played a crucial role in the Heat’s journey to the NBA Finals. His contributions went beyond the stat sheet, as his energy and versatility were essential in high-stakes playoff games, earning him respect from teammates and coaches alike.
Highlight: Winning the Slam Dunk Contest
One of the standout moments of Jones’s career came during the 2020 NBA All-Star Weekend when he participated in the Slam Dunk Contest. Known for his jaw-dropping dunks, Jones did not disappoint. He showcased his creativity and athleticism, ultimately winning the contest and solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s top dunkers. His performance was a blend of artistry and power, leaving fans and judges in awe and further enhancing his profile as an elite athlete.
The victory in the Slam Dunk Contest was more than just a personal achievement; it was a defining moment that highlighted his unique talents on a national stage. Winning the contest cemented his status as a fan favorite and increased his visibility in the league. The event served as a reminder of the excitement and entertainment value he brings to the game, capturing the essence of why fans love basketball.
Recent Years and Career Stats
After his successful stint with the Miami Heat, Derrick Jones Jr. signed with the Portland Trail Blazers in November 2020. His time with the Blazers allowed him to continue showcasing his defensive abilities and versatility on the court. In Portland, he took on new challenges, adapting to a different team dynamic and contributing to the Blazers’ success with his energetic play.
Jones’s career stats reflect his role as an athletic forward with a knack for making impactful plays. As of the latest season, his career averages include points, rebounds, and blocks per game, underscoring his contributions to every team he’s played for. His ability to impact games in various ways makes him a valuable asset, providing his teams with flexibility in both offensive and defensive schemes.
Key Stats:
- Points per game: Consistently around 7-9 points, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively while focusing on other aspects of his game.
- Rebounds per game: Approximately 3-4, highlighting his presence in the paint and ability to secure second-chance opportunities.
- Blocks per game: Around 0.6-0.8, reflecting his defensive prowess and timing in altering opponents’ shots.
Impact on the Court
Derrick Jones Jr. is known for more than just his dunks. His defensive skills and ability to guard multiple positions make him a valuable asset on any roster. Coaches appreciate his willingness to hustle and make plays that often go unnoticed on the stat sheet. His versatility allows him to match up against various player types, from quick guards to towering forwards, providing his teams with strategic advantages.
His ability to energize the team with his athletic plays and defensive stops has made him a favorite among teammates and fans alike. Despite not being a star player, Jones’s contributions are crucial to his team’s success. His impact goes beyond individual statistics, as his presence often inspires greater effort from those around him and sets the tone for defensive intensity and fast-break opportunities.
Conclusion
Derrick Jones Jr.’s NBA career is a testament to perseverance and the impact of athleticism in the league. From going undrafted to winning the Slam Dunk Contest, his journey is one of overcoming challenges and making the most of opportunities. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, demonstrating that determination and hard work can lead to success despite initial setbacks. As he continues his career, Derrick Jones Jr. remains a player who can change the momentum of a game with his incredible skills.
Whether it’s soaring for a dunk or making a game-saving block, Derrick Jones Jr. has solidified his place in the NBA as a dynamic and exciting player to watch. His career trajectory highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in professional sports, and his future in the league looks promising as he continues to evolve and contribute in meaningful ways.