2024 wing RJ Jones talks blue bloods & dream school

RJ Jones might only be a sophomore in high school, but he isn’t wasting any time getting out to schools. The 6-foot-8 small forward out of Gainesville (Fla.) The Rock School has already visited five campuses – Florida, Florida State, North Carolina, NC State, and Duke.

The Florida native has received early offers from Ole Miss, Texas A&M, Illinois, NC State, Cleveland State, and LaSalle.

Jones made his debut as a top-15 prospect nationally on recruiting sites, however, On3 has not yet begun ranking the 2024 class.

The sophomore wing tore his meniscus in December and will, unfortunately, miss the AAU season this summer. While rehabbing to make his return to the court, Jones found the time to chat with On3 about his recruitment and his game.

Jones talks visits to Florida & Florida State

Jones took his first-ever college visit in September to his hometown school, the Florida Gators.

Florida: “It was good, being in my hometown, being able to put on the jersey and walk around campus. I’ve known about Florida, but I was able to learn a lot more on the visit.”

It’s important to note that Jones lives only 15 minutes away from the Florida campus and says he lives in a community surrounded by Florida fans.

The following month, Jones crossed over into enemy territory and visited the rival Florida State.

Florida State: “Ever since middle school, they’ve been keeping up with me, sending me letters and stuff. They used to come watch the varsity players when I was still in middle school, but I would be in the gym so I’d be talking to them. So it was a pretty good experience.”

Despite growing up in Florida, Jones says he didn’t watch as much in-state basketball as much as he did the blue bloods. 

Dream school

Speaking of blue bloods, Jones grew up a fan of one in particular, Kentucky.

“My favorite team and dream school growing up was Kentucky,” he says.

While the Wildcats have not yet offered, they are indeed interested, and even that, is an honor for Jones.

“It was great, when I first heard they were recruiting me, I was super excited. It gave me motivation to keep going harder.”

Jones talks visits to UNC, NC State, and Duke

Late last year, Jones made a three-day trip to a trio of schools in the state of North Carolina. His first stop was to see the UNC Tar Heels, followed by NC State, and then concluded by Duke.

North Carolina:  “It was great. The coaching staff was amazing. Every single coach came from North Carolina and played there. It was cool to see how the coaches mesh with the players. I got to see how they play their fours and their fives too. It was just great. Coach (Pat) Sullivan talks to me the most from UNC.”

In December, Jones went back for a UNC game while in town for a basketball tournament.

NC State: “I love the coach (Kevin Keatts) and how energetic he is. Like even during the practices, he’s so into it. His coaching staff is great as well. They play really aggressive. They recruit dogs.”

Duke: ” It was great, being able to see the campus and how the academic part works as well. Their workout facilities and weights and everything were pretty cool. I mean, it’s Duke. It was just great. Most of their coaching staff went to Duke as well. I like how they communicate and how they can have fun with the players.”

What’s next for Jones besides healing up and getting back on the court? Well, a possible visit to Tennessee could be in the works. The Volunteers are the newest school to get involved in Jones’ recruitment and he’s considering taking a trip to Knoxville.

“I like their effort and how they play their fours. That’s what I really look for, how they play their threes and fours and the way they move them around the floor. I like their aggressiveness, and their coaching staff is all connected.”

Jones breaks down his game

“I can play the three, four, and five. I’m a really great shooter, I can do a lot of post-work. Right now, I’m working on handling the ball and controlling the offense. I’m really good in transition, getting my teammates open, and making plays for them.”

Jones said the two main things he would like to improve are handling the ball and making plays off the bounce.

It’s still early, but Jones knows what he’s looking for in his future school.

“A nice campus, the coaching staff and how they connect, and if they have a great relationship with their players. And if the coaching staff loves God.”