To open the game, Jones looked rushed by the athleticism and pressure of the Georgia Stars defense but after a shaky first few minutes, Jones settled down and ended up being one of the best players on the floor for the contest. Jones has quick hands defensively and got a couple steals that helped start fast break opportunities. Jones also got to his spots in the mid-range and hit some tough shots at the end of the shot clock for his team. I like that Jones can attack with both hands and once he gets more explosive, he should be able to play above the rim easier. One of the top wing guards in Ohio’s 2028 class, Jones is a name that mid major programs should be getting their eyes on this summer.

I’m not sure any OHSAA underclassmen is off to a hotter start to the season than Jones. He exploded for over 30 points in an overtime win over Pickerington North and a tight loss to Big Walnut. Jones has improved as a 3-point shooter and has always been a prolific scorer at the rim and in the mid-range. Jones is one of three players to announce recent commitments to All Ohio Red ‘s 16 U team, that projects to be much improved from their 15 U group last year.

Xavier Jones Xavier Jones 6'3" | SG Westerville South | 2028 State OH stood out as the best player in attendance. At 6’5”, he scored effortlessly from all three levels and carried himself with the calmness and poise of a seasoned veteran. Simply put, he was unstoppable all day.

Jones is a really good basketball player. He passes the eye test with his good build and length for a guard. Most others cannot match his size already and then he has some great skill. He can get to whatever spot on the floor he wants to, and I like his ability to always look for his open teammates. He understands that when he beats his defender someone in the help side is going to give his teammates too much space. Playing with All-Ohio Red he can show his passing ability.

I just saw Jones this weekend with Nova Village as they went 4-0 on the Prep Hoops Circuit as a tune-up before their Under Armour circuit starts this upcoming weekend. A high-flying athlete, Jones threw down some impressive alley-oop slam dunks in transition. I also like Jones quick burst attacking off the dribble as he’s tough to stop when he turns the corner. Still with a lot of room to grow, I expect Jones to improve as a 3-point shooter and ball handler, which would make him even tougher to stop. One of the top players in the 2028 class across the state, you’ll be hearing a lot more about Jones he continues to develop and mature.

One of the top freshman in central Ohio, Jones had some bright moments on Tuesday night in a tough road environment. I liked the way Jones operated in tight spaces as a ball handler and was patient when attacking off the dribble. Jones will continue to develop physically and the creation reps he’s getting now as a freshman will help him as an upperclassman. Very high upside on Jones as he’ll be a name central Ohio fans will hear about throughout his high school career.

When you hear a freshman starting on varsity that sparks your interest as a scout but you rarely see them be the team’s offense, that’s what Jones is for the Wildcats squad. He has great confidence and is a high-volume shooter. He got a ton of buckets around the rim and from beyond the arch. He is a raw player but was tough to stop. He has good timing on his off-the-dribble shots. He is a player that you can expect to be a name to know in Columbus for his high school career.