Big-time big man: Aggies get late basketball commit
“Better late than never.”
That was the motto for the USU men’s basketball team Monday when Elston Jones, a 6-foot-10, two-star center from Arizona, committed for next season.
The next day, head coach Stew Morrill announced center Jordan Stone would not be returning for his senior season. That announcement, coupled with the graduation of senior center Jarred Shaw, leaves Jones as the only center projected for the 2014-15 season. That role is something Jones is excited about.
“It feels pretty good,” Jones said. “I can go in and prove myself.”
Jones was in contact with New Mexico, Fresno State, Cal and South Carolina before ultimately deciding on USU.
“I thought it would be the right fit,” Jones said. “Coach Morrill’s system uses a post center, and that is how I play.”
Jones tore his patella tendon last season, causing some schools to back off of him. However, Morrill saw him as a fix at center for next year and for years to come.
“I felt pretty good talking to him,” Jones said about Morrill. “He was loyal towards me and he told me that I was the guy. I appreciated that.”
Having lost seven players this offseason already to graduation or transfer, the Aggies may have a rebuilding year next season. Whatever the case, Aggie fans can rest assured Jones will be part of it.
Jones made his official visit to USU on senior night against Wyoming.
“I’m just excited to play in front of those great fans at Utah State,” Jones said.
— dahdahjm@gmail.com
Twitter: @dahdahUSU