USJ's Jones named Girls Hoops Player of the Year

Playing for a state championship alluded University School of Jackson senior Anna Jones for the first three years of her high school basketball career.

But this past season, Jones finally got to play in Allen Arena at Lipscomb University and end her high school career in the state title game.

"That was special," Jones said. "That is what everybody wants. We wanted to end with a win, but it didn't work out. It was incredible, and I couldn't ask for much more."

Jones, a Middle Tennessee State University signee, averaged 22.8 points, 8.8 rebounds and 3.0 steals per games for the Lady Bruins this past season to be named the All-West Tennessee Girls Basketball Player of the Year for the second straight season.

Every summer before the new season began, USJ coach Tony Shutes gave Jones  areas to improve. Jones said the biggest step came her sophomore season.

"Going into my sophomore year, I had to take over as point guard, and that was a major jump for me," Jones said. "I was having the ball in my hands and taking leadership on the court."

Jones was named a Division II-A Miss Basketball finalist for three straight seasons, and she said her four years at USJ are something that she will always cherish.

"We have had such a special team, especially these seniors, because we have been together since the third grade. Every year our team has improved, and it was cool to see how grew as a team and as players," Jones said.

Jones leaves as the all-time leading scorer in program history after breaking the record held by Lisa DePriest (Morris) earlier this season, who had 2,235 points.

Jones ended her career with 2,794 points, 815 rebounds, 461 steals and 372 assists.

"I think it shows hard work has paid off," Jones said. "All of the time spent in the gym and the hours of practice when I sometimes didn't want to be there, it shows time and effort I have put in."

Now Jones prepares to take her talents to the NCAA Division I level this fall as she will have the opportunity to earn playing time as a freshman with the Lady Raiders.

"I am excited, but a little nervous," Jones said. "They sent me a workout schedule that I have had to get started on."

Reach Michael Odom at michodom@jacksonsun.com or 731-425-9754. Follow him on Twitter @JSWriterMichael.