Jones signs with SE Missouri St.
Photo by Scott Chancey
Scott Chancey
ALBANY — After graduating Cross Keys High School two years ago, Waylon Jones’ basketball path took him to Albany Tech.
Titans coach Sylvester Patterson assured Jones that he could help find him a four-year school to transfer to, and that feat was accomplished Thursday when the 6-foot-9 center signed a letter-of-intent with Southeaster Missouri State.
“It’s a very big day for me,” said Jones, who averaged eight points, 6.5 rebounds and two blocked shots during last season. “I had been waiting for this day ever since I graduated high school two years ago.”
A key player during the Titans’ 20-win season in 2008-09, Jones is trying to let a stress fracture heal that will keep him out of action until at least January.
On Thursday, that was relegated to the back of Jones’ mind as he celebrated a move to the next level. He also had an offer from Campbell.
Patterson, who said Jones also made an unofficial visit to Alabama Birmingham, coached by ex-Indiana Hoosiers coach Mike Davis, said the future looks bright for his sophomore.
“We really think, at Southeast, he has a chance to make it to the NCAA tournament,” Patterson said. “He’s explosive, a really good rebounder and knows how to shot block.”
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