Mike Dunleavy Jr. has historically squeezed out value from the second round of the NBA Draft, with notable selections such as Trayce Jackson-Davis, Gui Santos, and Will Richard, all of whom have seen rotation minutes under Steve Kerr’s tenure.
This year’s second-round draftee is Lajae Jones, a 6-foot-7, 220-pound small forward known for his defensive versatility and physical style of play. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Jones built a standout high school career at Duncan U. Fletcher High School before
embarking on a dynamic collegiate journey.
He played for Tarleton State and later led Barton Community College to an NJCAA Division I national championship, earning tournament MVP honors. After a stint at St. Bonaventure, Jones transferred to the Florida State Seminoles for the 2025–26 season. With the Seminoles, he averaged 12.7 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, highlighted by a dominant 28-point performance against Duke in the ACC Tournament.
Lauded by scouts as an impact guard and wing defender with top-notch role versatility, Jones – like new teammate Yaxel Lendeborg – is aiming to provide value despite working his way up from a JUCO background.
