Eddie Jones (born June 20, 1971) is a retired American professional basketball player who spent the majority of his NBA career as a versatile wing, often serving as a primary scorer and perimeter defender. A Temple University alumnus, he was selected 10th overall in the 1994 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers and developed into a trusted two-way contributor over more than a decade in the league. Eddie Jones earned two NBA All-Star selections in 1999 and 2000 and played for the Lakers, Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, and Dallas Mavericks. Known for his length, mid-range game, and defensive versatility, Eddie Jones left a lasting mark on the evolution of the modern wing in NBA basketball.
Career Overview
Jones’s NBA journey showcased a blend of scoring efficiency and wing defense on the perimeter. Drafted in 1994 as the 10th pick by the Lakers, his career spanned across four teams and more than a decade in NBA basketball.
Early Life & College
Born in Florida, Jones attended Temple University, where he developed the two-way approach that would translate to the NBA.
Draft & NBA Breakthrough
Selected 10th overall in the 1994 draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, he quickly established himself as a reliable two-way wing and playoff contributor.
All-Star Years
Two-time All-Star selections in 1999 and 2000 highlighted his peak years.
Scoring & Wing Play
A versatile wing, his scoring came from mid-range and efficient perimeter plays, complemented by length on the defensive end.
Defensive Prowess
Known for his lateral quickness and ability to guard multiple positions, he anchored rotations during his prime.
Teams & Roles
Over the years, Jones contributed across Lakers, Hornets, Heat, and Mavericks, serving as a veteran presence and two-way contributor.
Legacy & Impact
His career helped shape the value of multi-position wings in the NBA, emphasizing two-way balance and consistency.
Current Relevance
In 2025, Jones’s career is often cited in discussions about the evolution of wing defense and efficient scoring in NBA basketball.
Discussion Questions
- How would you evaluate the impact of Jones’s two-way play on late-90s NBA wings?
- Was his peak underrated compared to other guards and wings of the era?
- Which team benefited most from his two-way versatility?
- How does Jones’s style compare to today’s two-way wings in the NBA?
- Where would you rank him among Lakers/Hornets/Heat wings in franchise history?
Share Your Take
Join the conversation: share your thoughts on Eddie Jones’s legacy and where he ranks among the era’s wing players.