NBA Pre-Draft Interview with D2 NPOY, KJ Jones
“I’m a dog. I’m a go-getter. Whenever I’ve faced adversity in high school or college, I’ve always found a way through. I have no doubt I am going to shock people through this process. I am excited for the next 30 days.”
In this exclusive interview, KJ Jones II, the reigning NABC Divison II Player of the Year, breaks down his unique path from unheralded high school recruit to NBA prospect. We explored how he’s navigating the Pre-Draft process, his relentless drive, and his vision for carving out a role at the next level.
This past season, the 6’6” guard led Emmanuel University to a 26-7 record and a berth in the NCAA Tournament. He also led the country in scoring with 26.2 points per game while snagging 4.9 rebounds and four assists per contest.
Briefly walk through your journey
In high school, I kinda flew under the radar with recruitment, and I ended up with one offer, which was to Emmanuel — where I ended up playing all my years in college. I ended up there and kinda took off. I always wanted to play pro at the highest level, and that became more of a reality for me after my fourth year [at Emmanuel]. I had a really good season — leading the country in scoring and some NBA teams started to reach out. I wanted to test the Draft waters, but there are some rules in place with Division II guys, so I wasn’t able to do that last year.
I decided to return to school and there were 15+ NBA representatives at my games and practices this year, so it ended up working out well for me. I got invited to Portsmouth and now I’m going through the Pre-Draft Process.
How was your experience at Damian Lillard’s Formula Zero Camp?
Formula Zero was a great experience. There was so much we learned; I tried to take in as much knowledge as possible. A lot of high-level players were there — high school and college. I did well out there and it was fun. It was great to connect with Dame, his trainers, and the people who molded him into who he is. He is a really genuine guy and someone I’m still connected with. That was a special experience for me.
After a strong fourth year, what do you think you proved or further developed in your fifth year?
Consistency — I averaged the same points per game (26.2 points per game). My biggest thing was trying to be consistent, be efficient, and win a little bit more. We had lost earlier in the Tournament last year, and we went an extra round this year. We had a really good season, finishing 26-7.
Showing that I can be consistent, that the past season wasn’t a fluke, and that I could take it to another level in terms of winning. Another thing I was trying to prove was my versatility, especially defensively. I feel like because I’m so skilled offensively, it sometimes overshadows what I can do on the other side of the ball. I made a commitment to myself to show my versatility on defense, get up in guys' faces, and I ended up holding my opponents to ~30% from the field this year.
What was your mindset heading into Portsmouth and now these team workouts?
At Portsmouth, I did not take as many shots as I usually do in the first two games, but was trying to show everything else I can do — defensively, rebounding, communicating. And then, going into these workouts, I’ve just tried to be a dog — offensively, but especially on defense.
Just having a chip on my shoulder — I know there are people questioning: “Does he belong? Can he do that against this type of competition?” And I feel like I’ve more than proved that in these workouts.
My confidence has only grown throughout this process. I’m playing against other good players, but I’m outperforming them… I feel like I’m just as good or better than the guys in my draft class. You know, you mention competing against these high-major players… I’ve only had 10% to 15% of the resources they have had… So just going to the next level with those facilities, the weight room… I feel like there’s untapped potential for me because I didn’t have that type of access to those resources in college. So my confidence in these workouts is sky-high — because it had to be for me to even get in the NBA door.
What NBA teams have you worked out with?
So far, I’ve worked out with Brooklyn, San Antonio, Sacramento, and Utah. Cleveland and Golden State are up next.
How have the interviews gone so far?
They’ve gone well. I mostly get asked about my personality — who I am as a person, where I see myself playing, what position I see myself playing, and how I can fit into a team’s system.
As you watch the NBA Playoffs, are there any players you don't necessarily model your game after, but see yourself impacting winning in a similar role?
Boston Celtics guard Derrick White was a two-time NCAA Division II All-American at Colorado-Colorado Springs before ending his college career in the Pac-12 with Colorado.
I like watching Derrick White — particularly because he has a similar background and story. A large part of his foundation was at a smaller school, and now he’s making winning plays on a championship-contending team. I wouldn’t say I model my game after him, but he does a lot of the little things that contribute to winning.
I enjoy watching Shai — his pace and willingness to get others involved. Also, Anthony Edwards, another Atlanta guy, so watching him has been cool. Those are a couple of the guys I watch to see how they impact the game for themselves but also for their teammates. Those guys are all pretty unselfish, and that’s how I try to play as well.
What do you see as your ideal role at the next level?
I think my ideal role is as a secondary playmaker. If I go into a situation with a lot of established guards, I feel like I can also play off the ball, like a 3-and-D type of player. I can be versatile on the offensive end because of my IQ. I can play on or off the ball. I think right away, I’d be most comfortable in that secondary playmaker role, the second guy who gets the ball screen, but I also can thrive in a spot-up shooting role or make a quick read in a late-shot clock situation as well.