In a remarkable turn of events, basketball prodigy David Jones of Memphis has received an exceptional opportunity to exhibit his talents and enhance his prospects of being chosen in the NBA draft. As a distinguished first-team All-AAC wing for the Tigers, he has been recently extended an invitation to the NBA draft combine, scheduled to occur from May 12-19 at Wintrust Arena and the Marriott Marquis in Chicago. This prestigious opportunity follows the invitations extended to his fellow Memphis players Jalen Duren and Josh Minott for participation in the 2022 event.
Jones, who only declared for the NBA draft last month, has wisely retained his eligibility to continue competing at the collegiate level. His potential return to college, should he decide to do so, would undeniably be advantageous for Memphis. Among the 78 players invited, Jones will have the opportunity to showcase his skills alongside other top prospects. Furthermore, standout players from the NBA G League Elite Camp will also have the chance to join the combine, as demonstrated by former Memphis star Kendric Davis’ participation last year.
Notably, Jones secured the top position among Tigers players with remarkable averages of 21.8 points and 7.6 rebounds per game in the past season. Despite his silence on his future plans, Memphis coach Penny Hardaway has expressed optimism about the potential return of Jones to the Tigers’ lineup. Nevertheless, Jones must make a decision by May 29 if he plans to withdraw from the draft process and resume his college career.
Despite significant progress in rebuilding its roster, Memphis still has at least five open scholarships. The team has garnered the commitments of transfer guards Tyrese Hunter, PJ Haggerty, Colby Rogers, and Baraka Okojie, as well as big men Dain Dainja and Tyreek Smith. Forward Nicholas Jourdain is set to return, and incoming freshman guard Jared Harris has also been signed by Memphis.
It is evident that the future of Memphis basketball holds great promise, and Jones’ decision will undoubtedly have a substantial impact on the team’s prospects. The stakes are high, and the basketball world eagerly anticipates his next move.
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