When life is done throwing its hardest punches, some people don’t just get back up—they rise stronger. Ava Jones, the Iowa women’s basketball player who has faced unimaginable challenges, is now battling Hodgkin’s lymphoma just eight months after medically retiring from the sport she loves.

In her Instagram post, Ava shared the heartbreaking news with her followers, writing, “I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma after the results from the biopsy came back. This is the news no one ever wants to get, but especially after spending the last 2 and a half years working my b—–f and recovering from getting hit by a car. My body is very strong, and I am confident in the doctors here at Iowa.”

Ava shared a video of herself speaking directly to her followers. She began by acknowledging the significance of the date, saying, “Today is February 4, World Cancer Day, and I got diagnosed with cancer today.” Her tone was calm but emotional, reflecting the weight of the moment.

Her resilience and solid heart have been on display since an accident in 2022 occurred days after she committed to Iowa to play basketball. That driver-high on fentanyl-inflicted accident killed her father, Trey Jones, and left Ava and her mother Amy with severe injuries.

Despite all that happened to her, Ava fought back and earned a position on the Iowa women’s basketball team. However, the ongoing effects of her brain injury led her to medically retire from the sport in 2024.

Now, facing a cancer diagnosis, Ava’s journey has taken another devastating turn. Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system, requires intense treatment, but Ava’s unwavering spirit and determination remain her guiding light.

Ava Jones receives an outpouring of support from the basketball community

“You’ve got this, kid!!” These were the heartfelt words of encouragement from former Iowa head coach Lisa Bluder, who retired in 2024 after a legendary career. Bluder, who coached Ava during her freshman year, shared her thoughts on Ava’s recent diagnosis, expressing both heartbreak and unwavering confidence in Ava’s ability to overcome this latest challenge.

Ava’s announcement resounded strongly with her Iowa teammates. Whom she has had by her side during her recovery from the 2022 car accident and resultant medical retirement from basketball. Some players have turned to social media to show their support for Ava and lay emphasis on the close-knit bond they share with her.

Sydney Affolter, Iowa Hawkeyes guard (#3), shared on her own post, “Thinking and praying for you.” Her message, though simple, carried the weight of genuine care and reflected the unity and compassion that define the Iowa women’s basketball program.

Guard Kennise Johnson shared a heartfelt message: “Praying for you.” Like her teammates, Johnson’s words were a reminder that Ava is not alone in this fight and that her team stands firmly behind her.

McKenna Warnock, another member of the Iowa Hawkeyes family, also commented to show her support, posting, “Praying for you, Ava.” Her post, along with those of her teammates, conveyed how much Ava’s basketball family cares about her.

Beyond the Hawkeyes, Addison O’Grady, Iowa State Cyclones forward, shared her thoughts, writing, “Thinking of you Ava” with two red hearts. Her message reflected the quiet but unwavering support that Ava’s extended basketball family is offering during this difficult time.

Lucy Olsen, another member of the basketball community, also joined in, commenting, “Praying for you” with a heart. Like Ava’s teammates, Olsen’s words were a reminder of the strength of their bond and the collective hope they hold for Ava’s recovery.