Swarm and Sting
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Kai Jones shows out in FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

By Evan Birchmore

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 05: Kai Jones #23 of the Charlotte Hornets warms up before their game against the Detroit Pistons at Spectrum Center on January 05, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 05: Kai Jones #23 of the Charlotte Hornets warms up before their game against the Detroit Pistons at Spectrum Center on January 05, 2022 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /
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Second-year Charlotte Hornets big man Kai Jones posted a pair of strong performances for the Bahamas men’s national basketball team over the past week as a part of the FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers.

Jones registered a stat line of 20 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, three blocks, and one steal on 66.7% shooting against Venezuela on August 25th. He followed that up with 16 points, six rebounds, and two assists on 54% shooting against Argentina on August 29th.

He showed off his renowned leaping ability with an impressive putback dunk to close out the third quarter against Venezuela.

He showed off his athleticism again when he had yet another highlight reel dunk in the contest against Argentina. After setting a soft screen near midcourt, Jones caught a bounce pass from Indiana Pacers guard and Bahamian teammate Buddy Hield and powered to the rim for the finish.

Jones had a tremendous season at the G League level with the Greensboro Swarm in 2021-22. For the year, Jones had a stat line of 18.3 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks on 62% shooting. The rebounds, blocks, and field goal percentage were all the best by any Swarm player, while the points were second behind Jones’ 2021 draftmate, James Bouknight.

Although he has shown promise in both the FIBA games and in the G League, fans would be wise to be patient. Jones did not begin playing basketball until age 15, and while he is clearly talented, he is still raw as a basketball player. While he did not get extended minutes at the NBA level last season, this year may provide more opportunity for him to get on the floor in Charlotte.

What can Hornets fans expect from Kai Jones this season?

As mentioned, fans would be wise to be patient with Jones. While his recent performances are certainly encouraging, the competition level he has been facing is not comparable to what he will face on a nightly basis in the NBA. With that said, there is no harm in getting excited about Jones’ potential, and reminders of that potential are sure to be plentiful.

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