The Big 12 6th man of the year and one of the most athletic players in the country, Kai Jones broke out as a sophomore. In 23 minutes per game, Kai Jones averaged 8.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 0.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.9 BPG, and 1.4 TOPG on shooting splits of 58/38/69. Below is his full scouting report:
Name: Kai Jones
Height/Weight: 6’11 ½ / 221
Wingspan/ standing reach: 7’1 ¾ / 9’2 ½
Hand size: 9 ½
Position: C/PF
College/ country: Texas/ Bahamas
Tools: Athleticism, shooting, defense
Pros:
- Outstanding athlete
- Versatile defensively
- Growing jump shooter
- Excellent finisher at the rim
- Quality NBA frame
Cons:
- Must improve defensive positioning/ team defense
- Shot base needs improvement in staying steady
- Can go for the home run play too often
- Needs to continue getting stronger
- Limited playmaker
Overall:
Kai Jones is an athletic big that has potential to be elite in versatility on the defensive end while stretching out defenses as a shooter on the offensive end of the floor. Defensively, Jones’ on-ball defensive skill is phenomenal, and is a modern dream for a big man prospect. He can guard every position and not be outmatched thanks to an unprecedented combo lateral quickness, size/length, and overall athleticism. However, as a complete and team defender, Jones does have work to do, often being late to rotations and going for home run plays instead of going for a play that could simply alter the offensive play. Offensively, Kai has some intriguing areas of high upside with a realistic chance of hitting. As a shooter, Jones is unique because he can hit jab step threes, and made himself much more consistent as a shooter as a sophomore. He also is a great finisher at the rim, and can run in transition. If Jones can become even a slight self-creator, this will open up both of his current offensive strengths in being able to get to the rim, and to create his own jump shot. Look for Jones to be one of the most appealing upside swings in this draft.
Similar to: Willie Cauley-Stein, Christian Wood
Projected draft range: 11-22
Expected role: Unique center with versatility on both ends
Unplayable if: Basketball IQ/team defense never comes around and jump shot doesn’t translate.
Exceeds expectations if: Jump shooting translates and his creation ability grows, while his team defense comes into fruition.
Best fits:
- Charlotte Hornets
- San Antonio Spurs
- Oklahoma City Thunder
Shot chart:
