Newsletter

Kevin Jones Joins Kyoto: Excitement Builds for the New Season

Jones: “I have found my place for this year.”

Kyoto-based basketball team, Hannary, recently announced the signings of Kevin Jones, Yusuke Suzuki, and Ryota Hanzawa on June 29.

Jones, a 203 cm and 116 kg power forward, brings extensive experience to the team, having played in the NBA and Euroleague. He made his B League debut with the Ryukyu Golden Kings in the 2018-19 season, and later joined Alvark Tokyo for two seasons. Most recently, he played for Sunrockers Shibuya in the 2022-23 season. With 37 starts out of 58 games this season, Jones has been averaging an impressive 16.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 29.07 minutes per game. Kyoto GM, Takuma Watanabe, expressed his belief in Jones’ abilities, stating, “Kevin has a lengthy career in Japan and is widely respected by his teammates. With his strong work ethic, excellent shooting skills, and athleticism, he will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to our team.”

In response to joining Kyoto, Jones said, “I am thrilled to be a part of the incredible program that Kyoto is building.”

On the same day, Kyoto also announced the departure of Shek Diallo and Takumi Masuko. Diallo, who played an average of 29:21 minutes per game, contributed greatly to the team with an average of 16.3 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists this season. Masuko, on the other hand, played limited minutes, averaging only 2:27 minutes, 0.6 points, 0.3 rebounds, and 0.2 assists.

Jones: “I know this is where I want to be this year.”

On June 29, Kyoto player Hannary announced contracts with Kevin Jones, Yusuke Suzuki and Ryota Hanzawa.

Jones is a power forward of 203 cm and 116 kg. He played in the NBA and Euroleague, and made his B League debut in the 2018-19 season with the Ryukyu Golden Kings. He spent two seasons at Alvark Tokyo, where he moved the following year, and joined Sunrockers Shibuya in the 2022–23 season. He has started 37 of 58 games this season, averaging 16.3 points, 7.4 rebounds and 1.7 assists in 29.07 minutes played. Kyoto GM Takuma Watanabe said, “Kevin, who has a long career in Japan and is a character respected by his teammates on any team, is a hard worker with a fine shooting touch and a body that be able to run. it will fit,” he said.

“I’m so happy to join the amazing program that Kyoto is building,” Jones said in releasing the club.

On the same day, Kyoto announced the departure of Shek Diallo and Takumi Masuko. Diallo averaged 29:21 minutes, 16.3 points, 10.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists this season, while Masuko averaged 2:27 minutes, 0.6 points, 0.3 rebounds and 0.2 assists.

#Kyoto #Hannaries #acquires #players #including #power #Kevin #Jones #Sheck #Diallo #Takumi #Masuko #leave #teamBasket #Count