Lance Jones is the definition of a role player for Purdue basketball.
Need the fifth year guard to knock down shots? He will do it.
Need Jones to distribute the basketball? Look for him to pass.
Need Jones to knock down big time baskets and deliver crucial road victories? As was seen at Wisconsin, he will happily oblige.
After being asked to be “the guy” during his career at Southern Illinois, Jones has been willing to take a back seat and team with his teammates to do whatever is needed to help the Purdue basketball team win games and position itself for a deep run at an NCAA championship.
What has been his goals with Purdue?
“Do whatever the team needed to help win, and be someone guys could lean on,” Jones told the media recently.
And, how is it going?
“Not bad at all. We are 21-2, #2 in the country and have a chance to compete for a national tournament. I love it. I knew what I was getting myself into before I came and I knew I wasn’t going to be the man here,” Jones admitted.
That attitude has paid off nicely not only for Jones, but also for Purdue, who will put a seven game win streak and undefeated home streak on the line tonight when the Boilermakers host in-state rival Indiana. The first time the two teams played last month, Jones scored 17 points for Purdue.
Jones continues to improve in West Lafayette
During his time in West Lafayette, Jones has seen his game grow and mature. Most notably, he is doing a better job of balancing being aggressive and being smart.
“I have to know when to be aggressive and when not to. It’s been good. Players and coaches want me to be aggressive. I go out and play with a different level of confidence and aggression and hopefully everyone else follows,” Jones said.
According to Matt Painter, Purdue is “fortunate” to have Jones.
“He really embraces big moments. He competes, he makes big shots out there. He’s great, fun to coach, and he’s a good dude. Fortunate to have him,” Painter said.
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