08 Feb 2023 Jones White – Vilonia (501 Basketball Team 2023)

A one-point loss in last year’s Class 5A state quarterfinals left a sour taste in Jones White’s mouth. Determined to rise higher, Vilonia’s senior guard hit the gym and hasn’t stopped working to put his team back in contention for its first boys’ basketball title in school history. 

“Last season, I learned that you can’t take anything for granted,” White said. “You have to work hard every day to be good at something. The goal this season is to win a state title. That means spending extra time in the gym, watching film before every game and never taking any game for granted before we step on the court. Most importantly, we have to stick together as a team through the ups and downs.”

As Vilonia’s starting point guard, White has developed into one of the 501’s premier three-point shooters, earning him All-State and All-Conference honors. 

“Jones’ work ethic is unbelievable on and off the court, and it has helped him become one of the best shooters in the state,” Vilonia head coach Troy Campbell said. “He handles the ball with great control. He is our leader on the court.”

This season, White leads by example. As a focal point of the Eagles’ offense and a great defender, opponents struggle to keep No. 3 at bay.

“Hard work pays off,” White said. “It teaches accountability and grows maturity. I want to be remembered as a basketball player who treated the game the right way and was a winner.”