Sacramento Kings Forward Isaac Jones on His Career at WSU, Time in the NBA & More

Isaac Jones is no stranger to the spotlight, whether it was on the hardwood at Washington State University (WSU) or battling it out in the professional ranks with the Sacramento Kings. From his remarkable journey starting in junior college to carving a niche in the NBA, Isaac’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and relentless dedication. In this article, we dive deep into his career highlights, memorable moments, and what lies ahead for this rising star.

The G-League Championship Experience: A Testament to Grit and Teamwork

One of the most thrilling chapters in Isaac’s young professional career came during the Sacramento Kings’ G-League championship run with the Stockton Kings. The competition in the G-League is fierce, with every player hungry to prove they belong at the highest level. Isaac described the league as “insanely competitive,” emphasizing that every athlete down there has the talent and drive for an NBA contract.

Interestingly, Isaac didn’t play in the first two games of the three-game series because he was with the Sacramento Kings’ main roster. However, after the Stockton Kings lost Game 1, the team called him up to help seal the championship. Isaac took a red-eye flight from Sacramento to Orlando, arriving just hours before game time. Despite the exhaustion, he quickly immersed himself in the team’s strategy by watching film and then resting before stepping onto the court.

“It was a crazy experience, but so fun playing with those guys and being part of that team because that’s special,” Isaac shared.

The Stockton Kings clinched the championship with a 118-110 victory over the Orlando Magic affiliate, marking a significant milestone for Isaac and the team. This experience not only showcased Isaac’s ability to perform under pressure but also highlighted the importance of adaptability and readiness in professional sports.

Securing the Two-Way Contract: A Dream Realized

Midway through the season, Isaac earned a two-way contract with the Sacramento Kings, a pivotal moment that validated his hard work and potential. This contract meant he would split time between the NBA and G-League, receiving half of the rookie minimum salary initially.

Isaac reflected on the significance of this milestone:

“It showed that they believed in me and the work I was putting in, even when I wasn’t playing. It was a dream come true. I felt like I actually made it at that point.”

He described the transition as a “welcome to the league” moment, recalling his first NBA game where an injured player opened a spot for him. Expecting to play only a handful of minutes, Isaac ended up logging 20 minutes, overcoming nerves, and delivering a solid performance. That game, played against Minnesota, was a defining moment that boosted his confidence on the court.

Guarding the Greats: Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Chris Paul

Isaac’s rookie season offered unforgettable encounters with some of the NBA’s biggest stars. One particularly memorable preseason moment was when he found himself guarding Stephen Curry, a player Isaac had admired growing up. The experience was nerve-wracking but invaluable, giving him a firsthand look at the skill and speed required at the highest level.

Isaac also faced off against LeBron James and Anthony Davis during regular-season games, with LeBron nearly dunking on him—a moment that Isaac’s friends eagerly shared. But perhaps the most humbling challenge was defending Chris Paul, a veteran known for his cerebral approach to the game. Despite Paul’s age, Isaac acknowledged how masterfully he manipulated the game, outsmarting him multiple times in a row.

“Chris Paul killed me for like three possessions in a row. It was crazy,” Isaac admitted.

Statistical Highlights and Areas for Growth

In the G-League, Isaac showed impressive offensive capabilities, averaging 21 points per game on 57.3% shooting. He also attempted over three three-pointers per game, making nearly one, despite a 26.3% shooting percentage from beyond the arc. Isaac emphasized that improving his three-point shooting confidence is a priority, especially as he anticipates more open looks in the NBA.

During his 40 NBA games this season, Isaac averaged 8 minutes, 3.4 points, and 1.4 rebounds per game, with a few standout performances scoring up to 12 points. The Kings’ coaching staff has encouraged him to focus on two main areas in the offseason:

• Sharpening his corner three-point shot
• Improving his foot speed on defense to maximize his wingspan and length

Isaac recognizes his defensive potential and acknowledges that guarding elite NBA guards is a new challenge. However, he is confident that honing these skills will secure his place in the league.

Memorable Moments: Playing Against Familiar Faces and Sharing the Court

Isaac’s time in the NBA has also been marked by meaningful interactions with fellow Cougars and other players. One highlight was playing against Jaylen Wells, a former WSU teammate who had an outstanding rookie season despite an injury setback. The two shared a jersey swap after a game, a moment Isaac described as “fulfilling” and symbolic of their shared journey.

“Jaylen’s work ethic is incredible. He’s obsessed with the game, always in the gym, and knows exactly what he’s good at and what he needs to improve,” Isaac said.

Isaac also recounted meeting Clay Thompson, another Washington State alumnus, during a game against Dallas. While their interactions were brief, mostly casual greetings, Isaac appreciated the camaraderie among Cougs in the NBA fraternity. Clay’s quick and effortless three-point shooting remains something Isaac admires.

Reflecting on the WSU 2023-24 Season and NCAA Tournament Run

Isaac fondly remembers the 2023-24 WSU basketball season as one of the greatest of his life. After a 16-year hiatus, the Cougars finally returned to the NCAA Tournament, overcoming preseason predictions that ranked them near the bottom. The “wheat field underdogs” label resonated deeply with the team, as many players, including Isaac, came from unconventional backgrounds and stories.

Key victories over Arizona and a hard-fought tournament win against Drake stand out as career highlights. Isaac described the tournament environment in Omaha as electric, with a sea of red from Coug fans fueling the team’s focus and energy. Although the second tournament game ended in a tough loss, the team’s resilience and camaraderie left lasting memories.

“Making it to the tournament was a dream come true, and winning that first game meant everything to us,” Isaac reflected.

From Junior College to the NBA: A Journey of Faith and Hard Work

Isaac’s path to professional basketball was anything but straightforward. Starting at Walla Walla Community College and then moving to the University of Idaho before transferring to WSU, Isaac’s journey is a testament to perseverance and belief in oneself.

He credits much of his development to his junior college coach, Harden, who instilled in him the confidence that reaching the NBA was possible. Reflecting on those formative years, Isaac said:

“He told me if I stuck with it, I could make it to the league. Back then, I thought he was crazy, but he taught me so much about myself.”

This foundation paved the way for Isaac’s collegiate success and eventual rise to the NBA.

Life Off the Court: Marriage, Family, and Future Plans

Beyond basketball, Isaac’s personal life is a source of strength and stability. Recently married to his longtime partner, Malia, Isaac describes their relationship as a rock-solid foundation that has supported him through every stage of his journey.

He recalls the challenges of junior college life, where finances were tight, and Malia’s support was crucial. Now, they share a growing family with two dogs, a golden doodle and a golden retriever, adding joy and companionship to their lives.

Looking ahead, Isaac and Malia are planning a honeymoon trip to Greece, a goal that symbolizes their commitment to balancing life’s demands with personal happiness.

Looking Forward: Goals and Gratitude

Isaac Jones’ story is far from over. With the Sacramento Kings’ faith in his abilities and a clear focus on improving his shooting and defense, Isaac is poised to make a significant impact in the coming seasons. His journey from junior college hopeful to NBA player is an inspiring example of what dedication and belief can achieve.

He also expresses deep gratitude to Coug Nation, WSU fans, and the broader basketball community for their unwavering support. Isaac’s connection to his roots remains strong, and he continues to carry the spirit of Washington State University with pride wherever he plays.

As Isaac puts it:

“There’s definitely a place for me in this league once I keep working on my game. I’m excited for what’s next and grateful for all the support.”

Conclusion

Isaac Jones’ journey from a junior college player in Washington to a forward on the Sacramento Kings is a story filled with challenges, triumphs, and relentless effort. His experiences in the G-League championship, guarding NBA legends, and leading WSU to the NCAA Tournament highlight both his talent and character.

With a clear vision for growth, a supportive family, and a passionate fanbase behind him, Isaac is ready to take the next step in his professional career. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that with hard work and belief, dreams can indeed become reality.

For those eager to follow Isaac’s continued journey, stay tuned for more exciting seasons ahead as he works to make his mark in the NBA and beyond.