On Saturday, General Manager, Sam Presti, introduced the 28th draft selection in Oklahoma City. Perry Jones III was announced to a nice round of applause from reporters. Also was unveiled is his number. He choose number 3 as his jersey number. It’s the first time the number has been worn since the 2010-2011 season. DJ White was the last one to own the number.
Asked why he chose the number 3, Jones said “Because I’m Perry Jones, the Third.”
With all the questions about his knee and his work ethic questioned, Jones knows he has to come in and work hard with this organization. Jones appears to understand that it requires a lot of work to be a part of this team, mentioning the standard that Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook have set in the past seasons.
“I gotta do my best to fit in” Jones said. “While working hard at the same time.”
Jones said his knee feels great, it was great at Baylor, and it feels fine. Presti said he’ll keep an eye on it, but if something was to happen, the Thunder would be very proactive in taking care of the situation.
Perry Jones III knows that he fell, and has to work hard within this organization. First thing you notice when he spoke is that he’s very humble. Jones, however, did notice he slid in the draft. He’s glad he did though. He spoke well about this organization.
“I was surprised I slid as far as I did. Jones spoke, “I’m glad I did. I fell to a great organization.”
With a team on the brink of winning an NBA Championship, Jones knows he won’t be asked to contribute right away, and he’s okay with that. He really just seemed to be genuinely happy to be on this team. Knowing he has to be ready to contribute at any time, if the team needs him.
“My favorite part of the Thunder is that they like to have fun,” Jones talked about the team. “Hopefully I can help in any way, shape or form.”
Jones was also really excited about playing in front of the ‘Peake. He talked about how we all support this team in the good times and the bad. He said he watched a lot of games on TV.
“I hope to see some of my jerseys in the stands.” Jones said.
This guy is very humble, almost to a fault. However, he’s going to be a great fit in this organization and this team. He brings a lot of qualities that Presti looks for in players. We got an unbelievable draft steal in a draft where the Thunder weren’t really expected to do much, even with all the smoke coming out of Charlotte. I’m excited to see this kid in the Summer League Games.
