In the middle of the troubles that the Memphis Tigers have been facing, the ascent of 21-year-old David Jones feels like a resurrection of their squad. Jones scored 36 points and five steals to help Memphis upset No. 20 Arkansas 84-79 in a Battle 4 Atlantis semifinal game. After his impressive performance, Jones was praised by Memphis basketball coach Penny Hardaway.

Despite the recent charges against the 2023 recruit Mikey Williams related to the use of guns, Hardaway’s recognition demonstrates the high value he places on the young talent.

David Jones’ unsung NCAA anthem

David Jones made his NCAA debut playing for the DePaul Blue Demons. Throughout nine games, he averaged 14.3 minutes and scored 5.1 points per game. In his second collegiate game against Providence, he achieved a season-high of 10 points.

During his final year at DePaul, the team was ranked ninth in the Big East, averaging 14.5 points per game. He reached double digits 21 times in 28 appearances, including seven games with 20 points or more and one game where he scored 30. His field goal percentage was 44.5, and he had a deep shot percentage of 29.7.

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Jones led the team and was ranked 10th in the league with an average of 7.4 rebounds per game. He recorded five double-doubles, one of which was a triple-double for DePaul. Additionally, the Blue Demons were in the lead with 47 steals.

He’s a highly sought-after senior transfer who ultimately joined the Memphis Tigers.

An ultimate showdown against Arkansas

David Jones had a big game for the Tigers on Thanksgiving. He finished with 36 points and five steals, leaving Arkansas with no way to stop him. Jones made 12 of 14 free throws and 10 of 14 field goals. He struggled to start the season after transferring from St. Johns University but found his game near the conclusion of Memphis’ game against Michigan.

He maintained his strong play against the Razorbacks, becoming only the second player since 2010 to have at least 34 points and four steals in a game. One of his highlights was his game-winning three-pointer at the end of the first half, following a period of back-and-forth between the two teams.

David Jones has indeed come a long way after attending Teays Valley Christian School in West Virginia. He was a three-star recruit and rated 144th in his class, according to the 247Sports composite rankings.

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But now, his NCAA exploits are only hinting at his growing hunger for glory and career feats.