2023 NBA Draft Prospect Highlights: Colby Jones
Overview
Colby Jones began his basketball career playing for Pinson Valley High School in Pinson, Alabama, before transferring to Mountain Brook High School for his junior year. There, he played alongside Portland Trail Blazers forward Trendan Watford and was named the 2020 Alabama Class 7A Player of the Year. Jones then committed to play for Xavier as a four-star recruit. He was named to the 2020-21 Big East All-Freshman Team. In his sophomore year, he was awarded the NIT Most Outstanding Player after leading the Musketeers to win it all. In 2022-23, the junior forward averaged 15.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 1.3 steals across 36 games on 50.9% shooting from the field and 37.8% on 3-pointers. Jones’ strong campaign helped him earn All-Big East Second Team honors.
Analysis
Jones has the size to play either shooting guard or small forward at the next level. He excels at scoring in transition but has also developed into a quality spot-up shooter. He can handle the ball in the pick-and-roll while being a willing and capable passer. Defensively, Jones has active hands that help him create turnovers at a high rate.
Projection
Jones can be a quality bench option right away in the NBA while having the potential to develop into a regular starter. His play style is reminiscent of Caleb Martin and Cedi Osman, as he has two-way capability at both the guard and forward spots. Jones can play in an off-ball role as a spot-up shooter and cutter while also being able to create for his teammates as a secondary playmaker.
— Profile by RotoWire