Andrew Jones (191-G-1997, college: Texas) is a 25 year old 193cm guard from Irving, Texas that is playing his rookie season in Germany with Rasta Vechta currently averaging 10,1ppg, 3,0rpg, 1,2apg and 1,0spg. He just helped Vechta into the semi-finals of the Pro A playoffs. He began his basketball career at Macarthur high school and the celebrated a stellar 6 year stay at the University Of Texas (NCAA) playing a total of 134 games and averaged scoring in double figures in 5 of 6 seasons. He spoke to germanhoops.com about basketball.

Thanks Andrew for talking to germanhoops.com. Obviously Kevin Durant is the guy everyone associates with when you hear the University of Texas but there have been some guys at your school that have played in Germany like PJ Tucker, Clint Chapman, Brian Boddicker and Brad Buckman just to name a few. Did you reach out to some of these guys as you were doing research?

I have not been able to get in contact with those guys, most of them are busy around this time. I have followed their professional careers and they did well in Germany. I’m excited to be able to start my career in a place former longhorns have had success.

Years ago you were mentioned in the same breath as a Lonzo Ball and Jayson Tatum, but now despite a very good NCAA career are starting in the Pro A Germany. Has all the hardships that you have gone through with cancer and what your dad suffered put basketball into another perspective?

Basketball has taken me on a journey I would never expected to go on. I’m more appreciative for life and the opportunity to continue to play this game. I believe as I continue to play and learn I will be back to the player I once was. If not better

As a cancer survivior myself, I know exactly what you went through. Basketball is what pretty much saved my life along with my family. What was the key factor in your cancer struggle that helped you most with beating it?

The key factor was just continuing to believe I will play basketball again. By the grace of God I was able to have a great doctor who did everything to help me reach my goal. Also the unbelievable support from my parents and The University of Texas

How did the talks go with head coach Ty Harrelson? What impressed you most about his basketball philosophy and what sold you on taking this job?

The talks I had with coach Ty was really good. He has a great background in basketball and playing in Germany. I think coach will help me mature and grow my game as a professional. I think this will be the best opportunity to get playing experience.

Let’s talk about your game. You’re a 193cm guard that can do a lot. If you had to compare your game to an NBA player which player would fit the bill best?

I think I’m in between Westbrook and Chauncey Billups. Still trying to figure it out

You fill the stat sheet very well. Would it be fair to say that one could give you the middle name Mr versatility?

I like the thought process, I think I fit that description.

Would it be fair to say that your outside shot is still a work in progress? What kind of shooter are you now and what kind of shooter do you want to become?

I feel that I am a good three point shooter, and I know at time I can be streaky. I think in coach Harrelson system I will be more efficient.

On what area’s of your game are you working on most this summer so that you can continue to improve your game?

I have spent a lot of time on my body and my ball handling. I have become a more confident player maker now.

You played at the University of Texas from 2016-2022. What kind of player were you in 2016 compared to 2022?

in 2016 I was a young, talented, and athletic guard that relied a lot on instincts. I thinkI’m back to the player i was but a more mature version.

You played in 2 NCAA tournaments. How tough was the 53-52 loss to ACU? Is that one which you will probably remember your whole life?

That game against ACU was definitely a heart breaker, but I think advancing in the tournament is a more memorable moment for me.

What was your fondest moment at Texas? Possibly winning the Big 12 title over Oklahoma State?

The big 12 title is arguably the greatest moment in my college career. I think my buzzer beater against OU my freshman year is my most fondest moment

In your second season you played very well against Duke netting 16 points. What memories do you have playing against many future NBA players and holding your own?

I have always been a under dog my entire career, each time I step on the court I had to earn my respect. I think playing against players who were future NBA players motivated me and inspired me to play hard. I wanted to go to the same place they were projected to go.

You had numerous great games against top schools and players. What do you believe was your personal best game in the nCAA?

I think one of my best games in NCAA would probably be last year against Virginia or against Oklahoma state at home the year Cade Cunningham played

How did head coach Shaka Smart groom and prepare you best for a professional career?


He helped me understand the mental approach toward basketball and life. I have learned to have a level of appreciation for every opportunity you get.

Who won a 1-1 in practice you or Marcus Carr?

-We never actually played

Who was the toughest player that you faced in the NCAA that reached the NBA?

The toughest player probably was Davion Mitchell

Please name your 5 best teammates of all-time?

Mo Bamba
Jase Febres
Dylan O
Jericho
Matt Colemen

Please list your personal NBA Mount Rushmore?

Kevin Durant

kyrie Irving

Kobe Byrant

Steph curry

What is your personal opinion of the neverending debate of who is the greatest of all-time Jordan or Lebron?

They are both extremely dominant Players , but I think Jordan is a better player. I think Lebron Does everything great

Where do you place Steph curry now in the best point guards of all-time?

I think Steph is easily top 3, with the argument that he is not 2 or 3.

Did you see the sequel to the classic Coming To America? Shouldn’t they have left it alone?

I have not seen the new coming to America. I don’t think it will compare to the first one

Thanks Andrew for the chat.

Tags : ANDREW JONES, RASTA VECHTA, GERMAN BASKETBALL