Jadis Jones named OVC Freshman of the Week

Jadis Jones (10) plays defense during Lindenwood's 98-30 home-opening win over the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy in St. Louis on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024.

Photo courtesy of Don Adams Jr.

ST CHARLES, Mo. — A tenacious defender with a knack for getting to the rim, Jadis Jones has always been a step ahead of the competition, and his immediate impact on the Division I level at Lindenwood University has been undeniable.

This week, the Ohio Valley Conference recognized his stellar debut by naming him Freshman of the Week, a promising start to what could be a stellar college career.

"The transition to college basketball has been tough but worth it,” Jones said. “I can't acknowledge enough how important it is to prepare yourself as a high school player to be ready for the college level. You’re no longer playing against teenagers who don't really love the game. Every day, another grown man is lining up across from you, wanting the same thing and looking to outwork you. There are no shortcuts at this level.”

In his debut against SEC opponent Oklahoma, the two-time state champion from New Madrid County Central tallied 10 points and 10 rebounds, showcasing his ability to score, rebound, and defend at a high level. Jones saw 29 minutes of action, which was the second most on the team, and grabbed a team-high five offensive rebounds and went a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.

In the Lions' home opener against UHSP, Jones dominated, scoring a team-high 14 points on a perfect 7-for-7 shooting from the field. He also contributed five rebounds, tying for the game-high, along with two assists, two steals, and a block in a dominant 98-30 victory.

His flawless shooting performance was the most made field goals without a miss for Lindenwood since Anthony Christian's 9-for-9 game against Missouri S&T in 2019-20.

“It was difficult at first,” Jones said about the step up in competition. “It took me a while to get used to the physicality of 90 percent of the guys being stronger than me, making it hard to get to my spots. But as time has passed, I’ve started to match everyone’s strength.”

Adapting to the increased level of competition and the demands of college life has been crucial for Jones's success.

"The biggest adjustment I’ve had to make on the court is accepting my role," he said. "No matter what that role is, just being the best I can to give my team a good chance night in and night out. Off the court, just understanding the importance of the right way to take care of your body to prepare it for the season, all while trying to manage time between real life and the athletic side of it all."

Off the court, Jones has faced the challenges of balancing academic demands, rigorous training schedules, and personal commitments. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing his physical well-being and time management.

“It’s just about understanding the importance of the right way to take care of your body to prepare it for the season, all while trying to manage time between real life and the athletic side of it all," he said.

In his most recent game on Thursday, November 14, Jones continued to impress, scoring 14 points and grabbing a team-high nine rebounds in a hard-fought 82-74 loss to New Orleans.

When asked about the specific skills or strengths that have allowed him to make such an immediate impact, Jones emphasized the importance of staying true to his game.

"I went back to the drawing board, not trying to do anything out of my normal game,” he said. “ Just getting to where I am comfortable on the floor and being as efficient as possible. There's not necessarily anything specific; it's all about getting in here and putting your head down, at this level, nothing is going to be given to you, you have to work 10 times harder for what you want."

As Jones continues to develop and gain experience, his impact on the Lindenwood basketball program is only expected to grow. His strong start to his collegiate career is a promising sign for the future. With his combination of talent, work ethic, and dedication, Jones has the potential to become one of the top players in the Ohio Valley Conference.