Herbert Jones

Jones is one of the most versatile and disruptive defenders in the NBA, a forward whose combination of length, lateral quickness, and defensive intelligence has made him a cornerstone of the New Orleans Pelicans defense. Born on October 6, 1998, in Greensboro, Alabama, he attended Sunshine High School before playing four seasons at Alabama. At Alabama, he was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year and first-team All-SEC. Selected 35th overall in 2021, he quickly established himself as an elite perimeter defender.

At Alabama, Jones developed into a defensive force. He averaged 11.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 3.3 steals as a senior and was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year. His ability to guard multiple positions and generate turnovers made him one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in the draft.

The New Orleans Pelicans selected Jones 35th overall in 2021. As a rookie, he made an immediate impact on defense, averaging 9.5 points and 1.7 steals. In his second season, he was named to the NBA All-Defensive First Team, becoming one of the youngest players to earn the honor. He has continued to develop as a two-way player, improving his offensive game while maintaining his defensive excellence.

Jones is a defensive specialist whose strengths are his perimeter defense, length, lateral quickness, and ability to guard multiple positions. He is one of the best defensive players in the league and generates steals at an elite rate. His weaknesses are his inconsistent jump shot, limited offensive creation, and tendency to struggle against bigger forwards. His ceiling is as a perennial All-Defensive selection and franchise cornerstone.

Jones' résumé includes Alabama, SEC Defensive Player of the Year, first-team All-SEC, the 35th pick by New Orleans in 2021, NBA All-Defensive First Team in 2023, and an ongoing role as one of the premier defenders in the league. His journey from Alabama into NBA stardom reflects a player whose defensive brilliance and work ethic have made him a franchise cornerstone.