After one press conference, it’s evident why the Oklahoma City Thunder fell head over heels for Dillon Jones to the point they shipped five future second-round picks to acquire him.
The 22-year-old had a unique journey to the NBA. He went from a zero-star high school prospect who spent four years at small-school Weber State to a first-round selection.
Turning down the chance to get drafted in the second round last year and later significant NIL money to transfer, Jones stuck to his principles and bet on himself. The risky gamble paid off for the No. 26 selection of the 2024 NBA draft.
He dominated his senior season with the Wildcats and was added by one of the best-developing organizations in the league.
Jones possesses great self-awareness and maturity that strides away from most first-round selections. He understands his NBA role will be downsized from what it was at Weber State as the top option but is fine with that.
“Being the guy made me know what the guy will need from me,” Jones said.
This was a great response that won a lot of Thunder fans over. The usual first-round pick likely enters the league with dreams of being an All-Star, but Jones understands his best path to success likely involves being a solid role player.
Considering his characteristics, it shouldn’t be a shocker Jones’ selection of the No. 3 jersey held a deeper meaning than the average number choice by a player. The 22-year-old opened up about the meaning behind the number and stated it has deep sentimental roots in his family.
“(My brother) grew up with the No. 3 and things like that,” Jones said. “As this journey’s gone, I’ve just tried to honor different people with my numbers. That was his number. Three is big in our family.”
After scanning the available numbers, a lightbulb went off in Jones’ head when he came across the No. 3 — which was previously worn by Josh Giddey for three seasons.
“A person that’s close to us — his best friend — passed away in high school. He wears the No. 33 to honor him,” Jones said. “When the No. 3 was available, I just thought it’d be something good to honor the family and keep that in there.”
Dillon Jones with a touching story on why he chose the No. 3 jersey. Said he wore it for his brother, who wore 33 in tribute to a friend that passed away in high school pic.twitter.com/MQ8rAIStKT
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) June 29, 2024
This is just the latest example of how thoughtful Jones is. Working his way up from being in a small school to a first-round selection requires strong character and he’s shown that already before he even donned a Thunder jersey.
