Glue Guy Spotlight: 2019 DJ Jones
OK Run PWP 16U Elite enjoyed a successful summer due to high level talent across the board but don’t forget about the importance of DJ Jones’ role on the team. Jones was a high-level glue guy for PWP this summer which is why he deserves the Glue Guy Spotlight.
Their is no better time to be a good glue guy. Guys like Draymond Green, Tristan Thompson, Otto Porter and so on have made the “glue guy” role not only cool but profitable.
Unfortunately, our society has put a negative label on the term “glue guy”. Many immediately envision a player with minimal skills but plays hard and is the ultimate teammate. This player is appreciated but looked down on as well.
Don’t disrespect DJ Jones’ game and upside with such lazy generalizations.
There are rare moments when you can find a good role player who plays hard and understands his importance to the team but also has the potential to be a star in his own right.
The 2019 guard from Booker T. Washington showed his ability to fit into the dynamics of a loaded PWP squad this summer. He excelled in his role as a combo guard who put the pressure on the defense with his athletic ability and feel for passing.
Jones also had moments where he showed off his star potential by hitting big shots, finishing tough baskets, and creating turnovers.
He sacrificed a lot of individual attention for wins and the ability to play at high level with his BTW teammates which shows the type of kid and competitor he is.
Jones was a perfect fit with the backcourt of 2020 Bryce Thompson and 2019 Micah Thomas. Jones came in and did whatever was needed. He would take ball handling responsibilities if needed or he would spot up on the wing which allowed him to show off his consistent jumper.
Jones is a “right-play” type of player which means he is always ready and willing to give up the ball when the play calls for it. He would often find other great shooters in Thompson and Thomas with a “one more” pass or a hockey assist.
Playing at BTW with such great talent made playing with PWP such a seamless transition and it showed. Jones will try to carry that momentum into his junior year where there are high expectations for the most talented team in Oklahoma.
With so much talent around him, Jones may go slightly underrated but as his star continues to grow folks around the state will realize how important DJ Jones really is to winning games.