Jones Tabbed For Preseason Honor

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. --- On the eve of official practice sessions beginning for NCAA basketball teams, Northeastern State's Jason Jones is already gathering national acclaim.

The 6-8, 265-pound senior forward, and a returning starter from Cahors, France, was named by the Division II Bulletin as one of the Preseason Super 16 All-American NCAA Division II players by the publication.

"This is certainly a distinct honor for both Jason and the Northeastern State men's basketball program," said head coach Larry Gipson, who begins his 13th season with an overall record of 211-132. "I think this speaks to how hard Jason has worked to develop himself into a solid basketball player.

"I hope this gives Jason and our basketball team some momentum heading into the season. He has a lot of work to do to live up to that honor."

Southwest Baptist's Matt Rogers was selected as the Preseason Player of the Year. Jones was the only Lone Star Conference player chosen to the Super 16 squad.

Jones averaged 12 points and 7.6 rebounds a year ago while starting all 27 games. The RiverHawks return only four players from last year's squad that finished 11-16 overall and 6-6 in Lone Star North Division action. Northeastern State narrowly missed making the LSC posteason tournament a year ago.

A bevy of talented juco transfers and a solid freshman recruiting class will be welcomed by Gipson Oct. 15 for the start of preseason drills. In addition to Jones, the RiverHawks return Marlon Burnett (6-2, Sr., G), J.C. Snead (6-5, Sr., F) and Jesse Scroggins (6-6, Jr., F).

Northeastern State will open the season Nov. 16 at home against Ecclesia College at 7 p.m. in Dobbins Field House.