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Derrick Labrent Jones Jr. (born February 15, 1997) is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Clippers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the UNLV Runnin' Rebels. He is nicknamed "Airplane Mode" because of his dunking ability.[1][2]

Key Information

High school career

[edit]

As a senior at Archbishop John Carroll High School in 2014–15, he was named the Southeastern Pennsylvania Player of the Year, the Delaware County Player of the Year, was the PIAA Triple-A Player of the Year, and was selected first-team All-Catholic League. Under coach Paul Romanczuk, Archbishop Carroll went 23–7 overall in 2014–15, including a 12–3 mark in conference play. In the semifinals of the state tournament, he recorded 30 points, 18 rebounds and five blocked shots. For the season, he averaged 19.2 points, 10.1 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game. During his high school career, he scored 1,645 points, collected 1,029 rebounds and blocked 268 shots, finishing as the highest scorer in school history.[3]

College recruiting information
Name Hometown School Height Weight Commit date
Derrick Jones
SF 		Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Archbishop John Carroll 6 ft 6 in (1.98 m) 180 lb (82 kg) Nov 13, 2014 
Recruit ratings: Scout: 4/5 stars   Rivals: 4/5 stars   247Sports: 4/5 stars   ESPN: 4/5 stars   
Overall recruit ranking:   Scout: 84    Rivals: 49    ESPN: 30
  • Note: In many cases, Scout, Rivals, 247Sports, On3, and ESPN may conflict in their listings of height and weight.
  • In these cases, the average was taken. ESPN grades are on a 100-point scale.

Sources:

College career

[edit]

Jones joined the UNLV Runnin' Rebels for his freshman season in the 2015–16 NCAA season. Prior to the start of the season, the NCAA Eligibility Center requested that the ACT investigate test scores recorded by Jones from a particular testing site in Baltimore, Maryland.[4] Despite this, Jones was cleared by the NCAA prior to UNLV's first game against Cal Poly in November.[5] Jones was the Runnin' Rebels' second-leading scorer in 2015–16. He averaged 11.5 points on 58.9 percent shooting and 4.5 rebounds in 30 games. Jones recorded four double-doubles during the season, including a career-high 26 points to go with 10 rebounds against Chaminade at the Maui Invitational Tournament.[6]

On February 29, 2016, UNLV was notified by the ACT testing service that Jones' score had been cancelled. As a result, Jones was deemed ineligible to compete under NCAA rules and was forced to sit out the remaining three games of UNLV's season.[7]

Professional career

[edit]

Phoenix Suns (2016–2017)

[edit]

On April 7, 2016, Jones declared for the 2016 NBA draft, but left open the possibility of returning to UNLV or going to another college program by not hiring an agent.[8] Later that month, Jones hired an agent and remained in the draft.[9]

Jones ultimately went undrafted in the 2016 draft, and subsequently joined the Sacramento Kings for the 2016 NBA Summer League.[10] However, due to a groin injury, he was unable to play for the Kings during the tournament.[11]

On September 25, 2016, Jones signed with the Phoenix Suns for training camp.[6] Jones secured an opening-night roster spot after impressing the Suns during training camp and preseason.[12][13] He made his NBA debut in his home state against the Philadelphia 76ers on November 19, 2016,[14] and recorded his first field goal in the NBA to finish with three points in three minutes against the San Antonio Spurs on December 15, 2016.[15] Despite spending much of the 2016–17 season in the NBA Development League with the Northern Arizona Suns,[16] Jones was selected to compete in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest.[17] He went on to make it through to the final round of the Slam Dunk Contest, where he ultimately lost to Glenn Robinson III. On February 28, 2017, he scored eight points in a 130–112 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Two days later, he had another eight-point effort in a 123–103 win over the Charlotte Hornets.[14] On March 11, 2017, in a 100–98 win over the Dallas Mavericks, Jones made his first start, logging two points, a season-high seven rebounds, and one assist.[14] On March 28, 2017, he had his first double-digit scoring game of his career, scoring 13 points in a 95–91 loss to the Atlanta Hawks.[18] On April 9, 2017, he scored a career-high 15 points in a 124–111 win over the Dallas Mavericks.[19]

In July 2017, Jones joined the Suns for the 2017 NBA Summer League. In November 2017, he had multiple assignments to the Northern Arizona Suns of the NBA G League.[20] On December 7, 2017, he was waived by the Suns.[21] Jones appeared in 38 games with Phoenix over two seasons, averaging 4.7 points and 2.2 rebounds in 15.2 minutes.[21]

On December 12, 2017, Jones was acquired by the Northern Arizona Suns,[22] but did not appear in any games before signing with the Miami Heat later that month.

Miami Heat (2017–2020)

[edit]

On December 31, 2017, Jones signed a two-way contract with the Miami Heat.[23] On a two-way contract, Jones split his playing time between the Heat and their NBA G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce. He made his first start for the Heat on January 9, 2018, in just his third game, recording eight points, five rebounds, one assist and two blocks in 28 minutes against the Toronto Raptors.[24] On July 1, 2018, Jones signed a 2-year, $3.2 million standard contract with the Heat.[25]

Jones won the Slam Dunk Contest over Aaron Gordon during the 2020 NBA All-Star Weekend. They both had perfect scores in their first two dunks in the second round, forcing an overtime round. After they both earned perfect scores on their initial dunks, Jones won by scoring a 48 after taking off just past the free throw line to complete a windmill dunk; Gordon received a 47 after dunking over 7-foot-6-inch (2.29 m) Tacko Fall.[26] On August 14, 2020, Jones Jr. suffered a neck strain after colliding with Indiana center Goga Bitadze. He was stretchered off the court. The Heat reached the 2020 NBA Finals, but lost in 6 games to the Los Angeles Lakers.[27]

Portland Trail Blazers (2020–2021)

[edit]

On November 22, 2020, Jones signed a 2-year, $19 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers.[28][29]

Chicago Bulls (2021–2023)

[edit]

On August 28, 2021, Jones was acquired, alongside a first and a second round pick, by the Chicago Bulls in a three-team sign-and-trade also involving the Cleveland Cavaliers.[30] On January 12, 2022, during a 112–138 loss to the Brooklyn Nets, he suffered a right knee injury. The next day, the Bulls announced that he had a bone bruise and would miss at least 4-to-6 weeks, although the timetable was later upgraded to 2-to-4 weeks.[31] On January 25, the Bulls announced that Jones had fractured his right index finger during a workout and would miss an additional 6-to-8 weeks.[32] On the same day, however, he was upgraded to a timetable of 1-to-2 weeks in order to determine if he could play with a splint.[33]

On July 6, 2022, Jones re-signed with the Bulls on a two-year, $6.6 million contract.[34][35]

On June 21, 2023, Jones declined his $3.36 million player option to become a free agent.[36]

Dallas Mavericks (2023–2024)

[edit]

On August 18, 2023, Jones signed with the Dallas Mavericks.[37] He made his debut for the Mavericks on October 25, 2023, in a 126–119 win over the San Antonio Spurs.[38] Jones' time with the Mavericks marked a significant chapter in his career. Although initially coming off the bench, he earned a spot in the starting lineup later in the season due to his elite defensive play and impact on the court. During the playoffs, Jones' defense, athleticism and hustle were instrumental in several critical games, where his shot-blocking, perimeter defense and rebounding helped the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals. During this run, he primarily guarded the opposing team's best player, including Paul George, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Anthony Edwards. Jones continued to improve his offensive game as well, showing flashes of increased confidence with his outside shot and becoming a reliable cutter to the basket. His presence helped solidify the Mavericks' rotation, and this season is considered the most impactful stretch of his NBA career. He helped the Mavericks reach the NBA Finals, but they lost to the Boston Celtics in five games.[39]

Los Angeles Clippers (2024–present)

[edit]

On July 10, 2024, Jones signed with the Los Angeles Clippers.[40] He made 77 appearances (55 starts) for Los Angeles during the 2024–25 NBA season, averaging 10.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 0.8 assists.

On November 17, 2025, Jones was ruled out for at least six weeks after being diagnosed with a sprained MCL in his right knee.[41] Upon returning from injury, he made four appearances off of the bench, having previously started the first 13 games of the season. On January 4, 2026, Jones was ruled out for another six weeks after being diagnosed with a Grade 2 MCL sprained in the same knee.[42]

Career statistics

[edit]
Legend
  GP Games played   GS  Games started  MPG  Minutes per game
 FG%  Field goal percentage  3P%  3-point field goal percentage  FT%  Free throw percentage
 RPG  Rebounds per game  APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game
 BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game  Bold  Career high
 *  Led the league

NBA

[edit]

Regular season

[edit]
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2016–17 Phoenix 32 8 17.0 .562 .273 .707 2.5 .4 .4 .4 5.3
2017–18 Phoenix 6 0 5.5 .500 .000 .833 .7 .5 .2 .7 1.5
Miami 14 8 15.2 .388 .188 .611 2.4 .4 .2 .6 3.7
2018–19 Miami 60 14 19.2 .494 .308 .607 4.0 .6 .8 .7 7.0
2019–20 Miami 59 16 23.3 .527 .280 .772 3.9 1.1 1.0 .6 8.5
2020–21 Portland 58 43 22.7 .484 .316 .648 3.5 .8 .6 .9 6.8
2021–22 Chicago 51 8 17.6 .538 .328 .800 3.3 .6 .5 .6 5.6
2022–23 Chicago 64 0 14.0 .500 .338 .738 2.4 .5 .5 .6 5.0
2023–24 Dallas 76 66 23.5 .483 .343 .713 3.3 1.0 .7 .7 8.6
2024–25 L.A. Clippers 77 55 24.3 .526 .356 .703 3.4 .8 1.0 .4 10.1
Career 497 218 20.3 .507 .325 .706 3.3 .7 .7 .6 7.2

Playoffs

[edit]
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2020 Miami 15 0 6.5 .471 .444 .400 .8 .5 .4 .3 1.5
2021 Portland 2 0 5.0 .400 .000 — .0 .0 .5 .0 2.0
2022 Chicago 5 0 11.8 .412 .273 .667 1.4 .4 .2 .0 3.8
2024 Dallas 22* 22* 29.4 .481 .369 .733 3.5 1.2 .5 1.0 9.1
2025 L.A. Clippers 7 1 18.4 .438 .300 .375 1.9 .3 .6 1.3 7.3
Career 51 23 18.5 .466 .346 .630 2.1 .7 .5 .7 5.8

College

[edit]
Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2015–16 UNLV 30 15 21.5 .589 .205 .594 4.5 .8 .9 1.3 11.5

Personal life

[edit]

Jones has one brother and two sisters.[3]

In January 2023, Jones became engaged to his girlfriend during the Bulls' trip to Paris to play the Detroit Pistons.[43]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Derrick Jones Jr.

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Derrick Labrent Jones Jr. (born February 15, 1997) is an American professional basketball player who plays as a and for the of the (NBA). Known by the nickname "" for his exceptional athleticism and dunking prowess, he rose from being undrafted in the to becoming a key rotational player across multiple teams, highlighted by his victory in the 2020 . Born in , Jones grew up in a family with one brother, Lakeem, and two sisters; he is the son of Derrick Sr. and Otiesse Jones. He attended Archbishop John Carroll High School in , where he earned Mr. Basketball honors in 2015 after leading his team to the state championship game and finishing as the school's all-time leading scorer with 1,645 points. As a highly touted recruit, ranked No. 43 in the 2015 class, Jones committed to the (UNLV), where he played one season in 2015–16, averaging 11.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 58.9% from the field as the Runnin' Rebels' second-leading scorer. After going undrafted in 2016, Jones signed with the and spent his rookie season splitting time between the NBA and the NBA G League's Suns, showcasing highlight-reel dunks that foreshadowed his future reputation. He joined the on a in 2017, earning a full NBA roster spot the following year and contributing to the team's playoff runs, including a standout performance in the where he won the by defeating in a dramatic tiebreaker final. Over his career, Jones has played for six NBA teams—the (2016–2018), (2017–2020), (2020–2021), (2021–2023), (2023–2024), and Clippers (2024–present)—appearing in 509 regular-season games (as of November 2025) with career averages of 7.2 points and 3.1 rebounds in 20.1 minutes per game, while also reaching the with the in 2024. A left-handed shooter standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 210 pounds, Jones is valued for his defensive versatility, rebounding, and explosive plays .

Early life and education

Family background

Derrick Jones Jr. was born on February 15, 1997, in . He is the son of Derrick Jones Sr. and Otiesse Jones, both of whom played key roles in his upbringing. His father, Derrick Sr., was an avid player on local courts in , instilling in his son a strong and passion for the game through personal example and guidance. Otiesse Jones, his mother, provided steadfast family support, emphasizing values like perseverance and faith amid everyday challenges. Jones grew up alongside his older brother, Lakeem Johnson, and two sisters, Dej'sha Jones and On'Jesha Jones, in a close-knit that fostered mutual encouragement. The family's dynamics highlighted resilience, with his father's experiences in serving as a motivational foundation for Jones's early athletic development. From a young age, Jones's exposure to came through playing on neighborhood courts in and, after his family relocated a short distance to Marcus Hook during his childhood, continuing that tradition in the local community. This environment, combined with familial support, nurtured his budding interest in the sport and laid the groundwork for his future pursuits.

High school career

Derrick Jones Jr. attended Archbishop John Carroll High School in , where he played from 2011 to 2015. During his time there, he developed into a standout forward known for his athleticism and defensive prowess, contributing significantly to the team's success in the . As a senior in the 2014–15 season, Jones averaged 19.2 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game, establishing himself as one of the top players in the region. He earned prestigious honors that year, including Mr. Pennsylvania Basketball, Southeastern Pennsylvania Player of the Year, Delaware County Player of the Year, and PIAA Class AAA Player of the Year, along with first-team All-Catholic League recognition. These accolades highlighted his dominant performance and leadership on the court. Under Jones's guidance, Archbishop John Carroll achieved a 23–7 record and advanced deep into the PIAA Class AAA state playoffs, reaching the semifinals where he recorded a standout game of 30 points, 18 rebounds, and five blocks. Over his entire high school career, he became the program's all-time leading scorer with 1,645 points and 1,029 rebounds, solidifying his legacy at the school.

College career

Jones began his college basketball career at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), where he played during the 2015–16 season as a . In 30 games, he averaged 11.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 58.9% from the field, showcasing his athleticism and shot-blocking ability as a forward. During his time at , Jones demonstrated improved perimeter defense, using his length and quickness to disrupt opponents on the wing. His explosive athleticism was evident in highlight-reel dunks and versatile play, contributing to the Runnin' Rebels' efforts in the Mountain West Conference. Following the season, Jones declared for the as an early entrant, forgoing his remaining college eligibility to pursue a professional career.

Professional career

(2016–2017)

Derrick Jones Jr. went undrafted in the after one season at the (UNLV). On September 25, 2016, he signed a three-year, $3.4 million rookie-scale contract with the following a strong showing in . Jones earned a spot on the opening-night roster as an undrafted rookie forward, marking his entry into the NBA. Jones made his NBA debut on November 18, 2016, in a road game against the , where he played three minutes without recording a statistic. During the 2016–17 season, his rookie year, he appeared in 32 games off the bench for the Suns, averaging 5.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 0.4 blocks in 17.0 minutes per game while shooting 56.2 percent from the field. His playing time was limited due to the Suns' deep frontcourt rotation, but he demonstrated defensive potential and finishing ability around the rim in spot opportunities. The bulk of Jones's development occurred with the Suns' affiliate, the Northern Arizona Suns, to which he was assigned multiple times throughout the season. In 19 games (17 starts) for , he averaged 14.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks in 32.0 minutes per game, highlighting his explosive athleticism and shot-blocking prowess that facilitated frequent NBA call-ups. This G League exposure allowed Jones to refine his transition play and rebounding, contributing to his gradual integration into the Suns' system despite inconsistent NBA minutes. Jones remained with the Suns into the 2017–18 season, appearing in six games before being waived on December 7, 2017, to accommodate another signing.

Miami Heat (2017–2020)

After being waived by the on December 7, 2017, Derrick Jones Jr. signed a with the on December 31, 2017. Under the deal, he split time between the Heat and their affiliate, the , appearing in 13 games for the Skyforce and averaging 19.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game while shooting 50.5% from the field. With the Heat, Jones made his NBA debut on January 2, 2018, and went on to play in 20 games during the 2017–18 season, primarily providing defensive energy and athleticism off the bench as he adjusted to the professional level. On July 1, 2018, the converted Jones's to a standard two-year deal worth $3.16 million, securing him through the 2019–20 season. Over his first full NBA seasons with , Jones emerged as a reliable rotation forward, valued for his versatility on defense and highlight-reel dunks that energized the team. In the 2018–19 season, he appeared in 60 games (25 starts), averaging 4.9 points and 2.7 rebounds while blocking 0.5 shots per game, often tasked with guarding opposing wings and contributing to 's improved defensive schemes under coach . Jones's role expanded in the 2019–20 season, where he played in 59 regular-season games, averaging 5.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks in 14.5 minutes per game. His athletic prowess shone in key moments, including explosive plays that highlighted his development into a valuable bench contributor. In the , Jones helped power the Heat's unexpected run to the Eastern Conference Finals, appearing in 18 games and providing defensive intensity and rebounding off the bench during matchups against the , , and . His energy was instrumental in Miami's gritty style, as the fifth-seeded Heat upset the top-seeded Bucks and pushed the defending champion out of contention before falling to the Celtics. Following the Heat's loss to the Los Angeles Lakers in the 2020 NBA Finals, Jones became an unrestricted free agent in the 2020 offseason after his contract expired. Despite expressing a desire to remain in Miami, he ultimately signed with the Portland Trail Blazers, seeking a larger role elsewhere.

Portland Trail Blazers (2020–2021)

On November 22, 2020, Jones signed a two-year, $19 million contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, marking his first multiyear deal as a free agent following his stint with the Miami Heat. During the 2020–21 NBA season, which was shortened to 72 games due to the , Jones appeared in 58 games for Portland, starting 43 of them while providing athleticism and perimeter defense off the bench or in the . He averaged 6.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game, often contributing highlight-reel dunks and shot-blocking in transition, though his role diminished late in the season amid team injuries and rotation adjustments. His prior playoff experience with the aided his transition to Portland's contending roster, where he helped bolster the wing defense alongside stars like and . In the playoffs, the Trail Blazers earned the sixth seed in the Western Conference and faced the in the first round, ultimately losing the series 4–2. Jones played in all six games, averaging 5.0 points and 2.7 rebounds per game while serving as a key defensive option against Denver's versatile forwards, including and . Despite dealing with minor ailments like a right hip contusion earlier in , he remained available throughout the series without reported major limitations. Following the season, Jones exercised his $9.7 million player option for the 2021–22 campaign on July 26, 2021, committing to remain with Portland. However, on August 28, 2021, the Blazers traded him, along with a protected 2022 first-round draft pick, to the Chicago Bulls in a three-team deal that brought Larry Nance Jr. to Portland, effectively ending his tenure with the team after one season.

Chicago Bulls (2021–2023)

On August 28, 2021, Derrick Jones Jr. was acquired by the in a three-team trade that also involved the and , sending forward to Cleveland and bringing Jones Jr. to Chicago along with draft picks. This move bolstered the Bulls' wing depth as they aimed to rebuild around new additions like and , contributing to a franchise-record 46 wins and a play-in tournament berth in the 2021–22 season after a 31-win campaign the prior year. In the 2021–22 season, Jones Jr. appeared in 51 games for the Bulls, making eight starts while averaging 17.6 minutes, 5.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.5 blocks, and 0.5 steals per game. His athleticism and versatility shone as a key bench defender, often tasked with guarding opposing wings and providing energy in transition, which helped stabilize the Bulls' perimeter defense during their Eastern Conference resurgence. However, his season was interrupted by a right injury in 2022 that sidelined him for over two months. Following the season, on July 6, 2022, Jones Jr. re-signed with the Bulls on a two-year, $6.56 million contract, securing his role as a rotational forward. During the 2022–23 season, Jones Jr. played in 64 games off the bench, averaging 14.0 minutes, 5.0 points, 2.4 rebounds, 0.5 assists, 0.6 blocks, and 0.4 steals per game, with a focus on elite perimeter defense that limited opponents' shooting efficiency. His contributions were integral to the Bulls' defensive identity, as they ranked ninth in the league in points allowed per game (113.0), helping secure another play-in tournament appearance despite finishing 40–42. Notably, during the team's trip to for the NBA Paris Game on January 14, 2023, Jones Jr. proposed to his fiancée on January 17, marking a personal milestone amid his professional commitments. At the season's end, Jones Jr. declined his $3.3 million player option for 2023–24 on June 21, 2023, entering unrestricted free agency to pursue new opportunities.

Dallas Mavericks (2023–2024)

On August 18, 2023, Derrick Jones Jr. signed a one-year, $2.7 million veteran's minimum contract with the , adding athleticism and defensive versatility to the team's wing rotation. This deal came after he declined a $3.36 million player option with the , entering free agency to seek a more prominent role. His defensive skills, refined during his tenure with the , positioned him as a valuable addition to a Mavericks squad aiming to bolster its perimeter defense around stars and . During the 2023–24 regular season, Jones emerged as a key contributor, starting 66 of his 76 appearances and posting career highs of 8.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game while averaging 23.5 minutes off the bench or in the . His improved three-point shooting at 37.0% on 2.7 attempts per game complemented his high-flying dunks and rim protection, helping finish with a 50–32 record and secure the fifth seed in the Western Conference. Jones' energy and switchability were instrumental in ' improved defensive rating, ranking 10th in the league at 111.8 points allowed per 100 possessions. In the playoffs, Jones started all 22 games as advanced to the for the first time since 2011, showcasing his defensive prowess throughout the postseason. Particularly in the Western Conference Finals against the , he recorded key blocks, including a chase-down rejection of Gobert's in Game 5 that helped seal a 124–103 victory and the series win. Jones appeared in all five games of the 2024 against the , averaging 6.6 points and 2.8 rebounds in 25.1 minutes while contributing to Dallas' gritty effort despite a 4–1 series loss. Following the Finals, Jones entered free agency and agreed to a three-year, $30 million contract with the on July 1, 2024, departing Dallas after a transformative season that elevated his status as a reliable two-way forward.

Los Angeles Clippers (2024–present)

On July 10, 2024, Jones officially signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the , marking his sixth NBA team and providing depth to their wing rotation. The deal, which includes a 5% trade bonus, positioned him as a versatile forward capable of contributing on both ends of the court alongside core stars like and . In the 2024–25 season, Jones appeared in 77 games for the Clippers, averaging 10.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.0 steals in 24.5 minutes per game while shooting 51.2% from the field. His contributions helped the team finish with a 50–32 record, securing the fifth seed in the Western Conference. In the 2025–26 season, Jones has emerged as a key wing defender and transition scorer, leveraging his athleticism to disrupt opponents' offenses and capitalize on fast breaks. As of November 17, 2025, he is averaging 10.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game while shooting 54.0% from the field over 12 games. His defensive prowess, including strong perimeter containment and rebounding, has been integral to the Clippers' scheme, allowing Leonard and Harden to focus on primary scoring duties. Jones has started in most outings, providing energy and spacing that complements the team's championship aspirations. Jones recently returned from a knee injury. Jones's contributions have supported the Clippers' competitive positioning in the Western Conference standings during their opening stretch, with the team holding a 4–9 record as of November 17, 2025. His prior experience with has facilitated a smooth integration into the Clippers' system, enhancing team chemistry without reported major injuries affecting his availability prior to the recent knee issue.

Awards, honors, and playing style

Awards and accomplishments

Derrick Jones Jr. first showcased his extraordinary dunking ability during the 2017 NBA All-Star Weekend in New Orleans, where he advanced to the final round of the as a representative of the and their G League affiliate, the Suns. He earned high scores for his creative and powerful dunks but ultimately finished as runner-up to of the . Jones Jr. redeemed his 2017 performance by winning the 2020 during All-Star Weekend in while with the . In a highly competitive final against of the , both participants received multiple perfect scores of 50, leading to two tie-breaker rounds; Jones Jr. prevailed with a series of acrobatic slams, marking the first win for a Heat player since in 1995. This victory highlighted his elite athleticism, which has been a cornerstone of his playing style throughout his career. Beyond individual accolades, Jones Jr. has contributed significantly to team successes in the playoffs. With the in 2020, he played a key role in their improbable run to the , providing defensive versatility, rebounding, and energy during the Eastern Conference Finals against the , where the Heat advanced in six games. Similarly, during the 2023–24 season with the , Jones Jr. served as a vital perimeter defender and starter in all playoff games, helping the team reach the for the first time since 2011.

Playing style

Derrick Jones Jr. is renowned for his elite athleticism, particularly his exceptional vertical leap of 46 inches, which allows him to execute highlight-reel dunks and chase down blocks that disrupt opponents' scoring opportunities. This explosive leaping ability, combined with his quick first step, makes him a dynamic slasher who thrives in transition and on cuts to the rim, often finishing plays with authority. His dunking prowess has drawn comparisons to , another high-flying wing celebrated for spectacular in-game slams and contest performances. Defensively, Jones Jr. leverages his 6'6" frame and 7-foot to provide versatile coverage across multiple positions, from guards to forwards, using his length and agility to contest shots and generate steals without fouling excessively. He excels in help defense and switching schemes, often serving as a disruptive presence on the perimeter and in the . However, his offensive role remains limited by a career three-point percentage of 32.6% as of the 2024–25 season, which restricts him from being a reliable spacing option and emphasizes his contributions through drives and hustle rather than perimeter creation. Over his career, Jones Jr. has evolved from a raw, undrafted athlete relying primarily on physical gifts into a more disciplined role player who emphasizes consistent effort on both ends of the floor. Early in his professional tenure, his game centered on transition scoring and athletic bursts, but he has developed greater IQ, improving his positioning and team defense while incorporating smarter cuts and off-ball movement to maximize his slashing opportunities. This maturation has transformed him into a valuable player who impacts games through intangible hustle plays, such as offensive rebounds and chase-down efforts.

Career statistics

NBA regular season

Derrick Jones Jr. has compiled a solid regular-season career in the NBA through the 2025–26 season to date, appearing in 523 games and providing athleticism and defense off the bench or as a starter across multiple teams. His career per-game averages stand at 7.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, 0.8 assists, and 0.7 blocks, while shooting 50.6% from the field, 32.6% from three-point range, and 71.8% from the free-throw line. These figures reflect his role as a high-energy forward known for explosive dunks and rim protection rather than primary scoring, with a career total of approximately 3,900 points scored. Jones reached his peak scoring output during the 2023–24 season with the , where he averaged 8.6 points per game in 76 appearances, contributing to their deep playoff run while maintaining efficient shooting at 48.3% from the field. His (PER) has typically hovered between 11 and 14 across seasons, underscoring consistent but not star-level production in limited minutes. The following table summarizes his regular-season performance by season, highlighting key metrics such as , minutes per game, scoring, rebounding, and advanced (as of November 17, 2025):
SeasonTeamGPMPGPTSREBASTBLKFG%3P%FT%PER
2016–17PHX3217.05.32.50.40.4.562.273.70712.0
2017–18PHX106.52.61.50.40.4.500.000.5007.5
2017–18MIA2720.14.33.40.60.6.467.308.70811.2
2018–19MIA5524.37.03.70.80.6.600.250.69214.2
2019–20MIA5923.38.53.91.10.6.527.280.77214.9
2020–21POR5822.76.83.50.80.9.484.316.64811.9
2021–22CHI5117.65.63.30.60.6.538.328.80013.0
2022–23CHI4615.85.32.30.80.5.619.333.71412.5
2023–247623.58.63.31.00.7.483.343.71311.7
2024–25LAC7724.312.13.40.80.4.526.356.70313.5
2025–26LAC1226.110.92.51.21.1.540.341.78614.9
Career52321.27.43.20.80.7.506.326.71813.0
Note: Statistics sourced from official NBA records and updated as of November 17, 2025. Jones's contributions have often been amplified in transition and defensive possessions, transitioning effectively into roles where his athleticism shines.

Derrick Jones Jr. has appeared in 58 games across six postseasons, averaging 5.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game. His role in the playoffs has primarily been as a defensive specialist and energy player off the bench, leveraging his athleticism for shot-blocking and transition plays while contributing modestly to scoring. Over his playoff , Jones has recorded 42 total blocks, underscoring his impact on perimeter and interior defense in high-stakes matchups. During the 2019–20 playoffs with the , Jones played in 15 games, averaging 1.5 , helping the team advance to the . His athletic displays were particularly notable in the Eastern Conference against the , where he executed several highlight-reel dunks that energized the Heat's bench and contributed to their series victory. Jones' defensive versatility, including key blocks and rebounds, supported Miami's gritty style en route to a appearance, though they fell to the in six games. In the 2023–24 playoffs with the , Jones appeared in 22 games, averaging 9.1 points and 3.5 rebounds in 29.4 minutes. Playing as a key wing defender, Jones helped contain Boston's perimeter threats, including multiple blocks on drives by , though the Mavericks lost the 4–1.
SeasonTeamSeries AppearancesGames PlayedKey Stats
2019–20First Round vs.
Conference Semifinals vs.
Conference Finals vs.
vs. 		151.5 PPG, 0.8 RPG, 0.3 BPG
2020–21First Round vs. 22.0 PPG, 0.0 RPG, 0.0 BPG
2021–22First Round vs. 53.8 PPG, 1.4 RPG, 0.0 BPG
2022–23First Round vs. 55.7 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 0.5 BPG
2023–24First Round vs.
Conference Semifinals vs.
Conference Finals vs.
vs. 		229.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 1.0 BPG
2024–25First Round vs. [Opponent]
[Other rounds if applicable]		77.3 PPG, 1.9 RPG, 1.3 BPG

College

Jones played one season for the (UNLV) in 2015–16, appearing in 30 games and averaging 11.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game while shooting 58.9% from the field as the Runnin' Rebels' second-leading scorer.
SeasonSchoolGamesPPGRPGBPGFG%
2015–16UNLV3011.55.51.6.589
Career3011.55.51.6.589

Personal life

Family origins

Derrick Jones Jr.'s paternal lineage is rooted in Pennsylvania's local scene, where his father, Derrick Jones Sr., played competitively in small-town courts and leagues, fostering a passion for the sport that influenced the family dynamic. Although Jones Sr. did not reach professional levels, his involvement in these Pennsylvania-based circuits emphasized dedication and resilience, traits that permeated the household. On the maternal side, Otiesse Jones served as the cornerstone of family stability, providing unwavering support and guidance to her children amid life's transitions. Her role extended beyond daily nurturing to ensuring a supportive environment that allowed the family to pursue their interests, including , without major disruptions. Jones Jr. has two sisters, Dej'sha and On'Jesha Jones, who have maintained relatively private lives away from the public eye, focusing on personal endeavors rather than athletic pursuits. His older brother, Lakeem Johnson, followed a path in local sports, playing varsity at Chichester High School in after graduating in 2010. The family relocated from —Jones Jr.'s birthplace—to the Radnor area during his high school years, where he attended Archbishop John Carroll High School. This cultural backdrop briefly inspired Jones Jr.'s early interest in , shaping his approach to the game.

Marriage and children

Derrick Jones Jr. proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Pritchett (known as ), on January 17, 2023, during the ' trip to for an NBA game. He married Pritchett in September 2023. The couple has three sons: Derrick Jones III, Princeton, and Roman. Jones' family frequently attends his NBA games and events, providing support amid his professional commitments.

References

  1. https://www.nba.com/player/1627884/derrick-jones-jr
  2. https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/j/jonesde02.html
  3. https://www.nba.com/player/1627884/derrick-jones-jr/bio
  4. https://www.nba.com/allstar/2020/events/dunk-contest
  5. https://www.rotowire.com/basketball/player/derrick-jones-4083
  6. https://www.espn.com/nba/player/bio/_/id/3936099/derrick-jones-jr
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  30. https://www.basketball-reference.com/teams/POR/2022_transactions.html
  31. https://www.nba.com/bulls/news/derrick-jones-jr-proposes-in-paris
  32. https://www.espn.com/nba/game/_/gameId/401672980/mavericks-timberwolves
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  34. https://www.nba.com/clippers/news/la-clippers-sign-derrick-jones-jr
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  36. https://www.nba.com/pacers/news/what-theyre-saying-gr3-becomes-nba-slam-dunk-champion
  37. https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/28712380/derrick-jones-jr-edges-aaron-gordon-controversial-dunk-contest
  38. https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/barry-jackson/article246514150.html
  39. https://www.nba.com/mavs/jonesbackindallasforfirsttime
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  41. https://thejumphub.com/articles/who-has-the-highest-vertical-jump
  42. https://www.lines.com/nba/players/derrick-jones-jr-1796
  43. https://www.mavsmoneyball.com/2023/10/9/23902657/derrick-jones-jr-brings-versatility-and-a-very-particular-set-of-skills-to-dallas
  44. https://craftednba.com/players/derrick-jones-jr.
  45. https://www.landofbasketball.com/stats_by_team/2019_2020_heat_pl.htm
  46. https://www.nba.com/playoffs/2024/nba-finals/stats
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  48. https://delcohoops.com/2015/04/
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  51. https://www.essentiallysports.com/nba-active-basketball-news-who-is-derrick-jones-jr-s-wife-meet-clippers-star-s-life-partner-and-kids/
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