Prospect Watch: Miles Jones (2018)
Class of 2018 wing player Miles Jones of St. Mary’s will be one of the more unsung players in the state of Missouri.
The 6’4″ Jones plays on a team that features more well known players such as 2019 point guard Yuri Collins and 2018 standouts Yahuza Rasas and Antonio Burks.
However, if the Dragons are to reach their high expectations for the 2018 season, the versatile Jones will be counted on to play a big role. The big-bodied wing player has already received an offer from Lindenwood-Belleville with interest also coming from Lindenewood U (St. Charles).
As a junior, Jones averaged 7.6 points, four rebounds and shot 51 percent from the field in helping the Dragons to a 25-4 record and a district championship. The Dragons were upended in overtime by eventual state champion Vashon in the sectionals, which has given Jones and his teammates extra motivation for the season.
“Last year’s loss has given me a lot of motivation,” Jones said. “We want to go to state and get a state ring. That has been our goal from the start.”
The Dragons’ chances of success have been enhanced by the continued improvement of Jones as a perimeter threat. He poses a big matchup problem for opposing defenders with his big body and versatile skill set, which includes 3-point range and ability to attack the rim off the bounce.
“My size helps me because I can do a lot of things,” Jones said. “I can post up, shoot the 3-pointer and showcase my skills on the perimeter.”
Jones had the opportunity to improve his overall game during the summer by playing for the Gateway Basketball Club 17U team that competed in the Adidas Uprising Gauntlet Series.
“It was fun playing against all of that great competition,” Jones said. “There were a lot of great players and it made me a better player.”