Pelicans Summer League: Tyrique Jones fits the culture

The New Orleans Pelicans have had some impressive performances in the Summer League, with known names and fringe guys making contributions.

Trey Murphy III led the way in the first two games and looked like he had added some nuance to his offensive game with more play off the dribble and finishing through contact.

Most recently Deividas Sirvydis knocked down six 3-pointers on his way to 25 points, leading the Pelicans to their 2nd victory.

It’s been great to see the Pels’ culture permeating down from the top, as guys like Brandon Ingram, Zion Williamson and Jose Alvarado have been on the sidelines cheering on their teammates, who are playing hard and trying to to win.

One guy who seems to embody the culture the Pelicans are trying to build is Tyrique Jones, who has been making some big plays on the defensive end that have turned heads.

New Orleans Pelicans Summer League: Tyrique Jones

If you’ve watched any of the Summer League, then you’ve probably noticed Jones, as he is a big, athletic guy who makes big, loud plays.

He’s had a few thunderous dunks and blocks so far and has provided the Pels with a boost of energy on the defensive end and in transition.

Jones is no stranger to rebounding and blocking shots, as that is what he was known for at Xavier, where he averaged 14 points, 11 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.1 blocks and a steal per game in his senior season.

He continued to do the same for a year in the Italian league, where he put up similar numbers. He’s a hard worker who runs the floor, can defend a couple of spots and will make highlight-reel plays with his athleticism as he does here, blocking a shot with both hands that leads to a fast break:

He is the type of guy who is always hustling, and always running the floor hard looking for blocks and dunks.

He’s not much of a shooter, but he can finish around the rim and is a surprisingly good passer. He’s also adept at going up for lobs and put backs on the offensive end:

The Pelicans have had some success going after overlooked players who put in the work on the defensive end, and Jones is definitely one of those guys.

He’s had a good audition in Summer League so far and may end up working his way onto an NBA roster.