In a crucial game against in-state and conference foe Sacred Heart University on Feb. 8, Jordan Jones stepped up to deliver an ever-so-important Blue Devil win. 

Jones shot 11-for-16 from the field to put in a team-high and career-high 33 points. He also made 6 of 7 free throws, with one assist and pulled down two rebounds.  

He earned the Northeast Conference Player of the Week and Northeast Conference Prime Performer on Feb. 12. This was Jones’ second time being named NEC Player of the Week and his seventh time being named NEC Prime Performer. 

“When I’m playing, I’m not out there saying I want to play this way to receive this award,” Jones said. “The way that we play, Coach lets us play free, and whatever I can do to help the team win, I’m going to do.” 

Jones started playing basketball at 6 years old and said that he was named after NBA great Michael Jordan. Originally from Florence, South Carolina, he started his college basketball career at Coker University in Hartsville, South Carolina. After three seasons there, he entered the transfer portal. 

“It felt like Central genuinely wanted me,” Jones said. “I wanted to be somewhere for my last two years where I can rock out, where I can make a difference.” 

His parents played a significant role in the decision. They also came for a visit and helped solidify that this was the school for Jones.  

“When my parents came down for the visit, it just felt like home. It just clicked with them,” Jones said. 

Upon meeting head coach Patrick Sellers, they learned that they are both from the same hometown. Their connection grew from there and helped him feel even more comfortable. 

“We didn’t even have to come from the same city. He’s just a genuine dude,” Jones said. “When we watched film, he just reassured me that everybody in the city is excited about what I’m trying to do for the team, and the way that I’m playing, I just don’t need to stop playing that way, just keep being confident in myself.” 

Jones’ focus has been on the team’s battle for first place in the NEC standings. He also is looking to be the best player he can be. 

“I just want to keep getting better,” Jones said. “My aspiration is to play after college. Whatever scouts need to see, I want to continue to just get better in that aspect.”