Iowa basketball forward Ava Jones has formally announced her retirement from college basketball as a result of a tragic car accident in 2022 that resulted in severe injuries. This news has been confirmed by Iowa’s head coach Jan Jensen, who has expressed the team’s full support for Ava’s decision to step away from the game. Ava, a former top-100 recruit, had shown great promise in her basketball career before the life-altering incident.
The decision for medical disqualification and retirement was made after thorough consultation with team doctors and athletic trainers, ensuring that Ava will continue to receive her scholarship while focusing on her recovery and academic pursuits. The young athlete took to social media to share her heartfelt message, expressing gratitude for the support she has received from the Iowa women’s basketball program and her loved ones.
Ava’s journey took a tragic turn on July 5, 2022, when her father lost his life, and both she and her mother sustained injuries in a devastating collision with an impaired driver. As a result of the accident, Ava suffered a traumatic brain injury, as well as torn ligaments in both knees and a shoulder injury. Despite her determination to make a comeback, she was never medically cleared to return to the court.
The 6-2 forward had demonstrated exceptional talent during her high school career, with impressive statistics that earned her recognition as the Class 3A Player of the Year. Despite the challenges she has faced, Ava remains grateful for the opportunity to pursue her education on scholarship and will always be remembered as a Hawkeye, even though she will no longer be an active member of the women’s basketball program.
Ava’s resilience and courage in the face of adversity have been documented on her YouTube channel, where she has shared her journey of recovery and determination to overcome the obstacles that stood in her way. Her story serves as a reminder of the human spirit’s strength and the importance of support and perseverance in times of hardship.
As Ava Jones embarks on the next chapter of her life, we extend our best wishes for her continued recovery and future endeavours. Her decision to prioritise her well-being and education is commendable, and her legacy as a talented athlete and a source of inspiration to many will undoubtedly endure.