Jonquel Jones is a 6’6” forward for the New York Liberty whose game combines size, finesse, and perimeter skill.
Entering the 2025 season, she’s still one of the WNBA’s most versatile bigs. Let’s break down what makes her a problem on both ends of the floor.
Strengths That Set Jonquel Jones Apart
Elite Rebounding Instincts
Few players read the ball off the rim like Jonquel Jones.
Her timing and wingspan make her an elite rebounder on both ends.
In 2024, she averaged over 8 rebounds per game, even with the Liberty’s deep frontcourt rotation.
She’s aggressive on the defensive glass and dangerous tipping out offensive boards to create second chances.
Versatile Scoring
Jones can score inside and out.
She punishes smaller defenders in the post with soft hooks and drop-steps.
Stretching to the perimeter, she’s a reliable three-point shooter, around 35% last season, which keeps defenses honest.
This combination forces opponents to pick their poison: crowd her inside or risk giving up threes.
Defensive Switch ability
At 6’6”, she can guard fives but has the lateral movement to switch onto wings.
This makes the Liberty more flexible in late-game situations.
Her ability to contest shots without fouling, plus quick hands for deflections, disrupts opposing offenses.
Offensive Skill Set Deep Dive
Post Moves & Footwork
Jones is smooth on the block.
Her go-to moves include a left-shoulder hook and quick spin baseline.
Her footwork stands out, balanced and patient, making it tough to double-team effectively.
Shooting Touch & Range
She’s a career 80% free throw shooter, showing her touch.
Beyond the arc, she doesn’t just stand in the corner; Jones can trail the break or pop out in pick-and-pop sets.
Defenders who go under screens risk giving up open looks.
Passing & Vision
She’s not just a scorer.
Jones averaged over 2 assists per game, often from the high post.
She finds cutters and swings the ball quickly, keeping the Liberty’s offense moving.
Defensive Breakdown
Rim Protection
Jones isn’t a pure shot-blocker like some centers, but she alters shots thanks to her length.
Her awareness keeps opponents from attacking the paint easily.
Perimeter Defense
When switched onto guards, Jones uses her reach to bother jump shots.
While quicker guards can get by her occasionally, her ability to recover forces tough finishes.
Defensive Rebounding
She boxes out consistently, which helps the Liberty close possessions and run in transition.
Her rebounding often starts fast breaks, adding to her offensive impact.
Weaknesses & Areas for Growth
Consistency in Aggressiveness
At times, Jones can drift on offense, especially when teammates get hot.
Staying aggressive every quarter would boost her scoring average and keep defenses off balance.
Handling Traps & Pressure
Teams sometimes double her on the catch, and while she’s a solid passer, she can be turnover-prone if she hesitates.
Quicker decisions under pressure could reduce turnovers.
Durability & Workload
After injuries earlier in her career, Jones has mostly stayed healthy.
But managing minutes remains key to keeping her fresh for deep playoff runs.
Impact on the New York Liberty
Spacing for Teammates
Jones forces defenses to stretch out, giving stars like Sabrina Ionescu more room to drive.
Her shooting keeps the lane open, making the Liberty offense harder to guard.
Veteran Leadership
Beyond stats, Jones brings playoff experience and poise.
Her presence helps the Liberty handle high-pressure games.
Closing Games
In clutch moments, Jones can score inside or stretch the floor.
Her free throw shooting makes her a reliable option late in games when every point matters.
What’s Next for Jonquel Jones?
Jones remains in her prime at 31.
The question isn’t if she can keep playing at an elite level, it’s how she can add new layers.
More face-up drives, quicker passes out of doubles, and staying aggressive could push her from All-Star to MVP talk again.
If she continues to stretch her game and stays healthy, Jones could redefine the modern power forward, a player who can guard anyone, shoot the three, run the floor, and still dominate the boards.
Final Take
Jonquel Jones is still a mismatch nightmare: too skilled for slower bigs, too tall for smaller wings.
Her unique blend of size, skill, and IQ keeps her among the WNBA’s best forwards.
With another strong season, she could be the piece that helps the Liberty break through for a title.