By Christian Mordi / @thedribbledrop
Name: Tavon Jones
Team: Linden
Year: Senior
Stats: 18 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists per game
Accolades: First team All-State in 2017
Projection: First Team All-State
Why they’re on the list: It’s easy to follow the herd, but make no mistake about it, Tavon Jones is cut from a different cloth.
While many kids in the New Jersey basketball landscape are awestruck by the idea of playing for a private school, Tavon Jones chose a different path. The crafty guard opted to play for Linden High School. The alliance was formed and Jones hasn’t looked back since.
Jones encompasses the spirit of Linden. He’s fierce on both sides of the floor. Jones loves the big moment, period. His approach to the game gets everyone to buy into the system and puts the focus on one thing only: winning. Word has spread on his passionate play and the Linden faithful come out EVERY GAME to see their boys play. TJ is worth the price of admission.
Mentally, this kid is a natural born leader and tone setter. Physically, Jones is very athletic and rugged. He can guard multiple positions with ease. In regards to skills, Tavon has a complete skill set. He plays both guard positions with ease. Jones ran the Tigers offense for the second straight season. He led Linden to its second straight Group 4 championship and averaged 17.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game.
After a heartbreaking loss to Don Bosco in the final four of the T.O.C. Jones will be on a mission to win a championship during his senior year. Tavon will make sure you remember this one statement this year: Public Schools Matter.
Stat to know: Jones lived at the line, knocking down 5 free throws made per game