5A Mr. Basketball Candidate: Rylan Jones
Olympus is on pace to have another state championship caliber season. This is due in large part to the point guard play of Rylan Jones. Jones has basketball in his blood and has a feel for the game that is quite unique for a high school prospect. It is yet to be determined if he will be able to have the same impact at the University of Utah. However, we do know that Jones is a monster at the high school level.
Why Rylan Jones Could Win Mr. Basketball
Rylan Jones is one of the best point guards in the state. He makes his teammates better due to his ability to create for himself and for them. His basketball IQ is through the roof and it is quite apparent that he comes from a basketball family.
In addition to making his teammates better, Jones is a knockdown shooter from deep. He can shoot it in a variety of ways which makes him dangerous. He does not need the basketball in his hands the entire possession to make an impact. In fact, he does a good job moving without the basketball which allows his teammates to get a rhythm and puts a lot of pressure on his defender.
Lastly, he is in serious contention as for this award as Olympus is a likely candidate to win the 5A state championship as they have competed for the state title 2 years in a row.
Rylan Jones’ Mr. Basketball Obstacles
Jones’ biggest obstacle will be winning the state championship. The expectations are so high for Olympus that anything other than bringing home a state title will practically eliminate him from contention.
In addition, as he plays for one of the best overall teams in the state regardless of classification, one of the biggest obstacles will be his teammates. In particular, Jeremy DowDell. DowDell is a legitimate contender for this award as well. Especially, if Olympus is able to win the state title.
In order for Jones to win this award, he will need to have MVP type numbers and Olympus must win the state championship.
Rylan Jones’ Mr. Basketball Chances
Jones’ chances of winning the award are extremely high. It is easy to argue that he is one of, if not the, top point guards in the entire state. He has a great feel for the game. He manages the tempo of the game well and puts his guys in spots where they can be successful.
Further, it would take quite the upset for Olympus to not take home the state championship trophy. Moreover, if they are able to accomplish this goal, Jones will be a crucial part of that team.