Recruiting Report: Ismail Jones (2017)

T.J. Rushing

January 15, 2016 @ 05:57 PM

For Oldham County combo guard Ismail Jones, his prowess in the classroom is just as important as it is on the hardwood.   And though the 6-foot junior has received little so far by way of recruitment, the two Division III letters he has seen are from academically prestigious programs.   “I've received two emails from coaches,” said Jones. “One from MIT, and the other Rose-Hulman (IN)”   “I've always made my grades my focus, and I just try to do as well in the classroom as I do on the court. I take all advanced classes, right now I'm taking three AP classes. And I definitely see myself doing more academic stuff after high school.”   Jones is aware that he he still has some time to impress area coaches and earn their recruitment. But he admits that it's something he's starting to think about more.   “I'm just halfway through my junior year, but it is something that is starting to cross my mind a lot more, and something I am pushing for,” he said. “I am looking to get recruited and to step up my play so that coaches notice me.”   The high-scoring playmaker went on to define his style of play to PHK.   “I'm a fast-paced guard, I like to run the floor, and I have a very high basketball IQ, and I'm able to play multiple positions,” said Jones. “I shoot fairly well, and I drive to the basket well - that's probably my best strength is getting to the basket and finishing. And I'm also a very strong defender.”   Now a junior with the Colonels, Jones says his role with the team is diverse; to be a leader, a scorer, and a solid defender. “They look for me to be a leader and a strong defender and to just put the ball in the hole. And I think I've played well so far,” said Jones. “I could get my scoring up and work on my pull-up, but I'm playing very aggressive and teams definitely need to watch out for me.”