Weber State’s Dillon Jones wants to leave on top

Players to Watch from One-Bid Leagues: Dillon Jones and Drew Pember

Dillon Jones of Weber State and Drew Pember of UNC Asheville had the chance to end their college basketball careers, but they both made the decision to return for one more season in hopes of achieving a better finish.

Jones experienced a heartbreaking double-overtime loss in the Big Sky Conference Tournament semifinals, while Pember’s team was blown out in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament.

Now, these two highly decorated players from one-bid leagues are focused on making their final season count. Jones, a 6-foot-6 forward, showcased his skills at the G League Elite Camp and the NBA combine before leading Weber State in multiple statistical categories last season. Despite the opportunity to begin his professional career, Jones chose to return to school, valuing the supportive environment and the chance to continue developing as an athlete.

Pember, a 6-foot-11 forward, had a taste of high-major experience at Tennessee before finding success at UNC Asheville. He’s returning for a fifth season after becoming the first player in the history of the Big South Conference to lead in scoring, rebounding, and blocks in a single season. Pember’s outstanding performances, including three 40-point games and a school-record 48-point game, have led him back to college for one final shot at a successful NCAA Tournament run.

Other notable players from one-bid leagues include:

Tucker DeVries, Drake

DeVries, the son of Drake coach Darian DeVries, was named the 2022-23 winner of the Larry Bird Trophy as the top player in the Missouri Valley Conference. The 6-foot-7 wing played a crucial role in helping Drake reach the NCAA Tournament.

Enrique Freeman, Akron

Freeman’s exceptional performance of 16.8 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game last season earned him a spot among the few Division I players who achieved a double-double average. As a dominant force on the court, the 6-foot-7 forward aims to continue his impressive performances in this upcoming season.

Ray Harrison, Grand Canyon

Harrison, a former Big South freshman of the year, transferred to Grand Canyon for the 2022-23 season. His contributions were instrumental in securing an NCAA Tournament bid for the team, and he made history by achieving at least 80 points, 20 assists, and 20 rebounds in a conference tournament. Despite a loss to Gonzaga in the NCAA Tournament, Harrison’s performance left a lasting impact.

Ajay Mitchell, UC Santa Barbara

Mitchell, the Big West player of the year, consistently displayed his talents throughout the season by averaging 16.3 points and 5.1 assists per game. The 6-foot-5 guard’s ability to score and facilitate plays played a vital role in UC Santa Barbara’s success and their qualification for the NCAA Tournament.

Isaiah Stevens, Colorado State

Stevens, a 6-foot guard, has etched his name in Colorado State’s record books as the all-time leader in assists. His exceptional playmaking skills, highlighted by averaging 6.7 assists per game, have solidified his status as a key player in the Mountain West Conference. Stevens’ ability to distribute the ball effectively while contributing with scoring and rebounding makes him a valuable asset to his team.

Vonterius Woolbright, Western Carolina

Woolbright, a 6-foot-6 guard, showcased his versatility by leading the Southern Conference in assists and ranking among the top in both rebounds and scoring. His ability to make a significant impact on the court was evident, particularly during a memorable triple-double performance. Woolbright’s determination to excel will undoubtedly fuel Western Carolina’s aspirations for success.