Grassroots basketball is an ever-growing landscape. Hosting travel ball events has become a far more common practice, especially in the Southeast region, and it requires certain individuals to reach high levels of success. Today, Phenom Hoops continues to expand our brand after officially announcing the addition of Tony Jones as Director of Events.
Anyone surrounding the high school basketball scene should already be well-informed of Jones and his impressive list of accomplishments. For those who don’t know, Jones enjoyed notable stints at UNC Pembroke and Seventy-First High School. After graduating from UNCP (and his student assistant role), he went on to be a vital part of the Braves’ coaching staff. He later became a graduate assistant, creating and guiding Pembroke’s club team to a 45-7 record over two seasons (including a Final Four appearance). In 2019, Jones would be named interim head coach and led the team to a 24-6 record (including a conference title and third seed in the Southeast Regional). As expected, he would earn the title of associate head coach following his clear success as a leader and primary decision-maker. However, after seven seasons of working for UNCP, Jones set his sights on the high school ranks.
It didn’t take long for various programs to inquire about Jones, but Seventy-First ultimately secured the notable hire. In his first (and only) season with the Falcons, he assembled a mob of talented players, led the team to a 27-5 record, and narrowly lost in the state championship. Despite the loss, what Jones did as a first-year high school coach was nothing short of spectacular. Between the collegiate and high school ranks, he earned two Coach of the Year awards (Peach Belt in 2019 and District 4 in 2021) and totaled four conference championships. Even following his time on the sidelines, he still holds a ton of respect and adulation throughout the state and region.
It goes without saying, but what he brings to the organization should be apparent. In addition to his connections, coaching experience, and vast understanding of the game, Jones provides the team with a mature, calming presence. Regarding his move, he states “I’m excited about the new position. This is a different field than my previous endeavors but within the same industry. I’m eager to learn from and be a part of the Phenom Hoops team. Been working with these guys for the last year and really enjoyed my experience throughout that time. The professionalism and comradery were selling points for me. I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my knowledge, work ethic, and unique wrinkle to the organization.”
When discussing his role, Jones explains, “My primary goal will be taking responsibilities off the plates of others. I’m unafraid of hard work or getting my hands dirty, which is something I’ve gotten accustomed to throughout my professional career. This is all new to me, but I’m a willing learner and excited to see what the future holds with this organization. Rick has welcomed me with open arms since last year, which should make this a seamless transition going forward.”
Between scheduling, getting teams, overseeing event operations, and covering the eastern part of the state, Jones offers value in several different areas. Our President, Rick Lewis, reflects highly on our newest hire, Rick, “We’re excited to have Tony Jones part of the Phenom Family. Tony has an impressive resume, and his success as a basketball coach will fit perfectly with our long-term growth. In the past year, Tony has shown to be professional, hard-working, and reliable. As our new Director of Events, his contributions will be instrumental in our team’s success, and we look forward to his valuable input in our day-to-day operations.”