Tyus Jones is not the prototypical point guard by today's standards in the NBA, but he could capitalize on a terrific NCAA Tournament performance to be drafted in the first round this June.
Speaking with the Twin Cities Pioneer Press, the 18-year-old Burnsville, Minn. native indicated he has not made up his mind on whether or not to declare for the NBA Draft. He said doing so would "fulfill [his] dream," but there are other factors to consider.
For example, he wanted to see what fellow Duke freshmen Jahlil Okafor and Justise Winslow did. Considered a high lottery pick before even taking the court, Okafor had all but declared for the draft when Duke was cutting down the nets after winning the National Title earlier this week.
A multitalented wing player with size and athleticism, Winslow also figures to be one of the first few players drafted into the NBA. Still, it was Jones who won the Final Four Most Outstanding Player Award for hitting one timely jump shot after another.
Jones also proved he is not just a sharpshooter and has proven himself willing to draw contact near the basket to get to the foul line, where he shoots just a tick under 90 percent.
"There's nothing like playing in a sold-out college arena and the atmosphere," Jones told the Press. "And just being able to get better and work on your weaknesses."
But ESPN's Jeff Goodman reported recently that a number of NBA executives see now as Jones' best shot to be a first-round NBA Draft selection. Though he could improve his stock, Goodman opined it is more likely that forces out of Jones' control could result in him having a worse season.
Jones is six-foot-one and 190 pounds, smaller even than Stephen Curry, a point guard whose frame ranges more to the smaller side of the spectrum. But like Curry, Jones displays an advanced long- and mid-range jump shot as well as court vision and fearlessness near the basket.
"But it's really just my family and the coaches here; those are going to be the ones I'm talking with and who will end up helping me make a decision," Jones said. "There's a date I have to decide by, but I have no other timetable."