Featured photo taken by Carly Vadinsky
By Connor Ballou
Shawn Jones is currently in his senior year at Peace and his fourth season being a part of the men’s basketball team. In addition to being the only senior, Jones is also currently placed second in men’s basketball history in blocks and is closing in on the school record this year.
Peace, being located in the heart of Raleigh, NC, makes it a great place to pursue jobs and education. Jones emphasized why he chose Peace to play basketball and pursue higher education.
“Honestly, what made me decide to come to William Peace was the location,” said Jones. “I’ve always wanted to live in the city, and Peace was also the school that allowed me to continue my basketball career.”
He also expressed the importance of his time at Peace.
“I would describe my experience at Peace as an opportunity,” said Jones. “Being placed in downtown Raleigh has allowed me to connect and form relationships with many people.”
Jones spoke on a couple of words that come to mind and why when thinking about his 4 years being a member of the basketball team.
“A couple of words that come to mind when thinking about being on the basketball team for 4 years are dedication, resilience, adaptability, and structure,” said Jones.
Jones is planning to graduate in May and pursue a career in personal training.
“The next chapter looks like studying locally in the Raleigh area, pursuing a career in personal training. I am seeking to connect and learn from different people,” said Jones.
His energy and joyfulness have impacted multiple players on the team for the better. Sully Caruso, a sophomore on the basketball team, emphasized a word that best describes Jones.
“Joy, Shawn brings an element of joy to practice that is not commonly found for players in his position,” said Caruso. “He can completely change the mood of practice and games just because of the personality he brings to the gym.”
Going into his fourth year, Jones has grown so much as a player, and that is a credit to his work ethic over the years.
“People may think Shawn is an unserious person due to his personality, but don’t get it twisted, Shawn is one of the most hard working dudes on our squad, and while he brings a joy like no other, he also brings a work ethic second to none,” said Caruso.
Jones has impacted everybody on the team in a positive way. Parker Hodgson, a redshirt sophomore and guard, spoke on how Jones has helped him grow personally as a player and teammate.
“I think Shawn has always encouraged me and welcomed everyone that comes into the program,” said Hodgson. “He is the hardest worker on the team and just pushes everybody to raise our energy and effort.”
Hodgson spoke on how Jones influences the team culture.
“He has helped shape the culture to where we are always competing with each other and working our hardest. He is always competing with joy, no matter what we are doing”, said Hodgson.