Mount Vernon Nazarene men's basketball coach Jared Ronai announced that former player Austin Jones is returning to the Cougars as an assistant coach for his program.
Looking to improve on their 9-13 overall record and 7-9 in Crossroads League play, the Cougars advanced to the semifinals of the CL postseason tournament, and Ronai sees the team's past success with Jones on the team and his leadership as keys to win this season.
Jones played for Ronai from 2016-2020. The 6-7 post player was a part of the team that tied the program record with 27 wins and made it to the NAIA National Tournament round of 16 in 2018-19. In his senior year of 2019-20, Jones led the Cougars in blocks with 22, was second in scoring average at 14.6 ppg, was second in rebounds at 5.1 rpg and led in field goal percentage at .582.
Jones, a 1,000-point scorer and All-Crossroads League talent in his playing days, is excited to return to MVNU and begin his journey in the coaching world.
"I'm extremely thankful for the opportunity to come back to MVNU and join coach Ronai's staff and start my coaching career," said Jones. "MVNU helped cultivate my character as well as my faith. I'm looking forward to see what God has in store."
Ronai is excited to have Jones back at MVNU as well.
"I could not be more excited to welcome Austin back home. Austin grew into being a tremendous leader and player during his five years here at MVNU," said Ronai. "He will have a major impact from Day 1 within our program, and I cannot wait for him to start."
