Ryan Jones: Three Thoughts on Virginia Tech's Latest Commitment

Mike Young got his man as four-star Ryan Jones committed to Virginia Tech on Monday. Jones is the second commitment of the 2024 recruiting cycle for the Hokies, joining three-star wing Tyler Johnson.

This 2024 class comes on top of a two-man 2023 class that included three-star guards Brandon Rechsteiner and Jaydon Young.

Let’s discuss what getting Ryan Jones means for Virginia Tech.

Who is Ryan Jones?

Ryan Jones is a 6-foot-8 power forward from Gainesville (FL) The Rock School. Jones is the No. 98 player in the 2024 On3 150 and the No. 9 power forward in the 2024 On3 Industry Ranking. Jones ultimately chose the Hokies over Florida. 

“I’m a good rebounder and a good shooter,” Jones told On3. “I’ve been watching a little bit of Carmelo (Anthony) and his midrange game, trying to add that. I’ve developed the way I see the floor, how I make decisions with the ball in my hands.”

What does he bring to Virginia Tech?

Ryan Jones is a strong and physically built power forward. He has broad shoulders and long arms with strong hands. He has battled through injuries over the past couple of years, but he has been able to consistently show his game IQ and natural feel. 

Jones has been a staple at the USA Basketball minicamps throughout the last couple of years. He was also a standout on the NXT Pro16 Circuit this summer, playing with the Judan National program. For starters, Jones is a very good area rebounder. While not the most athletic player, he uses his long arms and understanding of angles and positioning to get his work done early and grab the boards. He has good touch on outlet passes, as well. 

While he is a very good defensive rebounder, playing defense could be a question. He does not have the quickest feet, nor is he a rim protector. This is an area he will need to continue focusing on. Offensively, Jones is a very good shooter when his feet are set. 

He has range that extends out to the three-point line, and he has consistent release and with excellent balance and base. Jones is someone the opposing big has to stay attached to, pulling the gravity of the defense toward him, opening spacing. He showed comfort and touch over his left shoulder in the half-court. 

While his game might not be as dynamic as others, it is quite effective. Jones carries a high floor. There is an understanding from himself and his team of what his capabilities are. Those capabilities, shooting at a high rate and grabbing rebounds, fit in nicely with what Mike Young likes to do on the floor.

How does Jones fit in the lineup?

While there are other bigs who could be on the roster, none of them are like Ryan Jones. His frame is physically ready for college basketball today, but it is the blend of what he brings to the table that makes things interesting. 

Mike Young has shown that he prefers bigs who are versatile. Jones’s ability to stretch the floor and pull gravity opens up what Young is able to run and his offense. The defense will be something that they will have to figure out with the four/five combinations. But the rebounding and spacing should work.

Jones talks Virginia Tech

“What I like about Virginia Tech is the way they use the forwards and how versatile the forwards are,” Jones said. “Plus, they are a great shooting team, which is my best attribute. My relationship with coach Young has definitely grown over the past couple of weeks and I have great relationship with Coach Giltner as well!”