The point guard returns to Tel Aviv after playing for Maccabi four years ago
Chris Jones is the latest weapon for Hapoel's backcourt
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One year away from the EuroLeague was enough for Chris Jones, who is returning after signing with Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv.
Jones (1.88 meters, 32 years old) spent the previous three seasons with Valencia Basket. Last season was his first in the EuroCup and he averaged 10.6 points and 4.5 assists, though he was limited by injuries to 15 games. Jones helped Valencia reach the semifinals, where they were eliminated by Hapoel, which went on to win it all.
In Tel Aviv, Jones adds to an already deep backcourt featuring new additions Vasilije Micic, Elijah Bryant and Tyler Ennis and holdovers Yam Madar, Antonio Blakeney and Bar Timor.
"I am proud to officially join Hapoel Tel Aviv for the upcoming season," Jones said in a statement released by the club. "It’s a great honor to be part of a prestigious club with amazing fans. I’m full of appreciation for the opportunity and ready to give my all for the team in pursuit of great achievements together. I’m excited for the journey ahead. Yalla Hapoel!"
The veteran playmaker made his EuroLeague debut with Hapoel's archrival Maccabi Teal Aviv back in the 2020-21 campaign. He also played one EuroLeague season with French side LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne and has averaged 11.4 points in 126 EuroLeague games over four seasons.
Jones worked his way up to the EuroLeague the hard way after playing college basketball at Division II Angelo State University and beginning his professional career in Mongolia with Tuv Ajmag TuV. Then came stops in Switzerland with Starwings Regio Basel and in Belgium with Mons-Hainaut. A strong 2019-20 campaign in Turkiye with Bursaspor caught Maccabi's eye and Jones has remained in the top levels of European basketball ever since.