Marquette's Kam Jones achieved a remarkable feat by recording the third triple-double in Marquette history during the team's recent victory over No. 6 Purdue. Jones dedicated his performance to his late high school coach, Terry Tippett, who passed away at the age of 79. Tippett, a highly successful coach with six Tennessee state championships to his name, had a profound impact on Jones during his freshman year at Evangelical Christian in Memphis, Tennessee.
In an emotional tribute to his coach, Jones expressed his desire to honor Tippett throughout the season. His triple-double performance included 17 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, showcasing his versatility and skill on the court.
Jones' achievement marked a significant milestone for Marquette, as it was only the third triple-double in the program's history. The last triple-double was recorded by Dwyane Wade in 2003, a pivotal moment that led Marquette to its most recent Final Four appearance.
Throughout his collegiate career, Jones has been a consistent scorer for Marquette, leading the team in points in previous seasons. However, with key players departing, Jones has embraced a new role as a playmaker, evident in his career-high 10 assists during the recent game.
Marquette's head coach, Shaka Smart, commended Jones for his growth and adaptability on the court, emphasizing his improved playmaking abilities and leadership.
Opposing coach Matt Painter of Purdue acknowledged Jones' evolution as a player, noting his transition from a shooter to a well-rounded contributor on the court.
Jones' performance against Purdue not only showcased his scoring prowess but also his ability to impact the game in various ways, reflecting his dedication to continuous improvement and hard work.
As Jones continues to excel on the court, his triple-double against a formidable opponent stands as a testament to his skill, determination, and the lasting influence of his high school coach, Terry Tippett.
