Offers rolling in for Kevin Jones

2008 three-star prospect Kevin Jones has put up some impressive numbers lately for Mt. Vernon (N.Y.) High School and the offers are rolling in for the 6-foot-7, 210-pound forward.

In a overtime shootout against Aliquippa (Pa.) High School and forwards Herb Pope and Jonathan Baldwin, Jones went for 31 points and 20 rebounds. Then last night he put up 33 points and 15 rebounds.

At the present, Jones boasts offers from Kentucky, Indiana, Memphis, Louisville, Rutgers, Seton Hall, Pittsburgh, St. John's, St. Joe's and UMass. Connecticut and Syracuse, both of whom Jones has unofficially visited, are showing strong interest as is Florida.

Although Jones refuses to name any leaders in his recruitment, he does have a couple unofficial visits in the works.

"I plan to visit Kentucky and Indiana," said Jones. "I'm setting up a visit at Kentucky for the LSU game, but I don't have a clear dates set for Indiana yet."

Whereas many recruits these days have little regard for the basketball tradition of the schools recruiting them, Jones is very concerned with playing for a tradition rich school.

"In looking at schools, the most important thing is the school's history and tradition in basketball," he said. "Obviously, education is important as well. Location matters a little bit, but I know my parents will make the effort to see me play wherever I end up. Also, the coach's reputation for putting players into the NBA is important."

Playing the power forward position for his high school team, Jones is well aware that he needs to develop his perimeter skills in order to be an impact player at the next level.

"I think it's important to work on everything and polish up the things you are good at," said Jones. "As for what I need to get better at, I'm working on my ball handling skills and moves to create shots off the dribble. I know at the next level, I will probably have to play the three and maybe even the two."

With his penchant for physical play around the basket and the movement in the game to play smaller, more skilled line ups, Jones might very well be destined to be a skilled face up four man on the collegiate level.