Jones Finds Early Success in Philly Homecoming

Following a one-year tenure at West Virginia University, Philadelphia native Ashley Jones came back to her home city as a member of the Temple Women's Basketball Team in 2018. Jones was a top 100 recruit coming out of high school and had an array of options to play college basketball. Although she considered Temple, she ended up joining the Mountaineers.

During her one year at WVU, Jones appeared in every game and was a contributor. In discussing why she decided to transfer, Jones said, "I wanted to come back to my family and friends." With several options in the Philadelphia area, she knew "that if I came back it was going to be at Temple." The Philly native grew up following Temple Basketball. Jones pointed to Dionte Christmas as someone who drew her attention to the men's team in addition to Feyonda Fitzgerald and Alliya Butts on the women's side.

Settling in back home has been easy for Jones. She credits her teammates and the coaching staff as keys to a smooth transition. But, being back in Philadelphia was just the first step for Jones. Following her year-long transfer probation period, the redshirt sophomore has set high goals for herself and for the team. "I want to reach the Sweet 16, win the Big 5 and have a strong, winning season" said Jones.

The Temple guard is focused on several parts of her game that she is looking to improve. "Its defense and communication that I want to keep getting better at," added Jones. While already confident in her scoring abilities, Jones wants to build upon her strengths as well. In addition, she hopes to "make a name for myself since I have been sitting out for so long."

Jones is making an immediate impact on the Owls by putting up 21 points in first game in the Cherry and White, leading all players. Many of the Jones family members and close friends were on Broad Street to support her in the homecoming debut.

The experience has been one to remember for Jones. "It has been great to be able to play in front of my family and friends" she added. It is not just the game of basketball that has improved since coming home. "I have been happier just being back home near my mother, I have seen her almost every day" said Jones.

With everything going smoothly for Jones, it is time to continue building upon the initial success. With bold goals and a strong work ethic, there is excitement around this season for Jones and the rest of the Owls.

Temple will host Duquense in McGonigle Hall tonight, November 8th at 7 p.m.

Temple University Athletics

Jones Finds Early Success in Philly Homecoming

Related News

Players Mentioned

Alliya Butts

Feyonda Fitzgerald

Ashley Jones

Related Videos