Basketball: Bluejay Jones' progress is on the ball

A redshirt season taught Creighton's Josh Jones the meaning of patience.

In more ways than one.

Having to wait a season to get his career started was difficult for the Omaha Central graduate. But the year of watching and practicing without a chance to play also allowed Jones to refine aspects of his game and learn the value of being patient on the court.

“I've gotten a better handle on things,'' Jones said. “I had the habit of being a little too fast-paced trying to adjust to the tempo of the college game.

“I've tried to slow down and let the game come to me. I guess I've matured.''

If he has, Jones could get plenty of opportunities to help the Bluejays this season. No one questions the 6-foot-2 guard's athleticism or his ability to score the basketball.

At Central, Jones once made 10 3-point baskets in a game. He finished his high school career with a school-record 1,518 points and led Class A in scoring as a senior with a 19.8 average.

“He can shoot it,'' Creighton coach Dana Altman said.

What excites Altman is the improvement Jones has made in areas of his game that needed some work.

“Without a doubt, the redshirt year was good for him,'' Altman said. “He's made progress guarding the ball. He still needs to improve his off-the-ball skills, but on the ball, he's made a lot of progress.

“He has a good feel for our offense. Like most high school players, any shot used to be a good shot for him. He's become a lot more selective. He still takes a few off-balance shots but he's getting better in that area.''

In spite of the strides he's made, Jones knows they bring no guarantees of playing time. Creighton's talent pool at the guard and wing spots is deep. Cracking the rotation will be a challenge, but Jones says all he wants to do at this point is contribute.

“I haven't looked at the situation as to who I need to beat out to play,'' Jones said. “Right now, I think everyone is starting on a clean slate. I'm confident, with the time I put in during the offseason, that I have as much potential as anyone else to get minutes.

“I'm willing to do whatever it takes. I'm not real selfish in how I'm approaching this. I just want to contribute and help this program win. Whether that's two minutes or 20 minutes, I'm going to play as hard as I can whenever I'm in.''

The fact that he has a chance makes last season's time on the bench worth it for Jones.

“Last year seemed like forever,'' Jones said. “I wanted to play but had to wait my time. Now, I'm prepared for whatever situation Coach Altman throws me into.''

Contact the writer:

679-2298, steve.pivovar@owh.com