March 30, 2015
Vanderbilt sophomore center Damian Jones has announced that he will return to Vanderbilt for his junior season in 2015-16. Jones, who was named as an All-SEC First Team selection by the league’s coaches, led the Commodores in scoring and rebounding in 2014-15 with 14.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, respectively.
“After consulting with my family and Coach Stallings, I felt it was in my best interest to return to Vanderbilt next season,” said Jones. “I love it here at Vanderbilt, and I am extremely excited about our team. I can’t wait to start working toward making our team better this spring.”
The Commodores, who finished 21-14 overall and advanced to the NIT Quarterfinals this year, return four of five starters and seven of their top eight leading scorers in 2015-16. Vanderbilt also adds a 2015 recruiting class that features guards Camron Justice and Joseph Toye, forward Samir Sehic, and center DJery Baptiste, a group that is ranked #21 by ESPN.com in their latest class rankings.
“We’re thrilled that Damian has decided to return for his junior season,” said Vanderbilt head coach Kevin Stallings. “This was a process that he and his family took very seriously, and we’re happy that he came to this decision. Damian has the potential to be one of the top big men in the country next season, and we’re excited to see him work with a promising group of returnees and outstanding incoming players this spring and summer to see that come to fruition.”