Memphis head coach Penny Hardaway gained three recruits this weekend. One of the newest recruits, Antwann Jones was granted his release from Texas A&M University on Sunday, and he signed with the Memphis Tigers following his release.
For Jones, it was all about the new-look staff that gave him the incentive he needed to make the commitment to Memphis.
“The reason I chose Memphis immediately is because of the coaching staff,” Jones said. “I believe in Penny Hardaway and Mike Miller, two former pros. Penny being one of the greatest point guards to ever do it, and Mike Miller — one of the best shooters. I will get the opportunity to learn from them and also be able to have a strong foundation for my career.”
Jones is a four-star recruit and ranked as a top-100 prospect in the 2018 class. The 6-foot-6 shooting guard comes from Orlando, Florida, and played at Oak Ridge High School. His size makes him a two-way threat and gives the Tigers a lot of options. Jones said he has a winning mentality he will bring to the team.
“I’m a competitor,” Jones said. “I hate losing in anything. I’m also a complete basketball player. There’s nothing I can’t do. I also have a high IQ, and I’m not selfish. I love to see my teammates eat. People say I’m a natural leader, so I just try to lead by showing instead of talking.”
During the last couple weeks Hardaway has built a top-30 recruiting class for 2018. Jones said that he is excited to be a part of something special.
“We are definitely going to make history this year,” Jones said. “I like setting goals and reaching them, but it feels like I’m a part of something special already. I’m playing for Penny Hardaway.”
He said he expects the Memphis team to perform well this season.
“After getting vibes from some of the players still here, I think we can bring back an American Conference trophy,” Jones said.
Jones came to Memphis and said he did not get a chance to really experience the campus because it was cold, but he said Memphis just felt right.
“The practice facility is what got me excited, to be honest,” Jones said. “I just know this is where I want to and need to be.”
Jones will join Alex Lomax, Jayden Hardaway and Tyler Harris as the latest signees. Isaiah Maurice, formerly at Kansas State University, also committed to the University of Memphis this past weekend. Jones said he is familiar with both Lomax and Harris’ style of play.
“I had the chance to play against A-Lo (Lomax) in the EYBL and watched Tyler over the summer at the Fab48,” Jones said. “And I played against him at Pangos All-American camp and NBPA Top-100 camp.”
Four-star guard Antwann Jones poses in his new Tigers uniform. Jones officially announced his commitment after being granted a release from Texas A&M.
Antwann Jones takes a photo near the Tigers logo. The four-star guard announced his commitment to Memphis after being granted a release from Texas A&M.
