Herb Jones Makes Naismith Midseason Team

The play of Alabama basketball’s Herb Jones has earned him a spot on the Naismith Midseason Team, the Atlanta Tip Off Club announced Thursday. 

Jones is one of 30 names across college basketball still in contention for the trophy, awarded to the nation’s most outstanding college basketball player. In March, the list will be cut down from 30 to four, with the winner being selected on April 4. Jones and LSU guard Cameron Thomas are the only two players from the SEC who made the midseason list. 

In addition to the Naismith Midseason Team, Jones was already named to the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Award watchlist, making him one of only five players to be on both lists. 

The Crimson Tide currently hold a 16-5 record due largely in part to the play of Jones. In addition to averaging 11 points a game, the 6-8,  210 pound forward is widely regarded as one of the best defensive players in the country. He leads the Crimson Tide in rebounding per game, steals, and deflections. Additionally, he leads the team in Nate Oats’ Blue Collar Points system with 423.5. 

Jones’ reputation for being a hard working, tough player is evident in his performances through the last several weeks. The Greensboro, Alabama native has played through both finger and back injuries to help the Crimson Tide stay on top of the SEC. 

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While Jones isn’t entirely healthy, Alabama head coach Nate Oats mentioned in a recent podcast with Fox Sports’ Aaron Torres the star forward wouldn’t be sitting until the team acquired more “separation” in the SEC standings. 

Alabama hosts the Georgia Bulldogs Saturday at 2:30 p.m. CT. The game will be broadcasted on the SEC Network.