Former Mississippi State guard earns an NBA G League opportunity after impressing at the Squadron’s open tryout, adding depth to Laketown’s roster before its matchup with Mexico City.

STWF SPORTS | KENNER, La | NOVEMBER 10, 2026 – The path from an open tryout to professional basketball has become a reality for Shawn Jones Jr., as the Laketown Squadron announced the acquisition of the former Mississippi State guard through the NBA G League’s available player pool.

Jones, a 6-foot-6 guard from Houston, earned the opportunity after impressing the Squadron’s coaching staff during the team’s local player tryout in September.

His performance secured him a place on Laketown’s 2026-27 training camp roster, and he will now join the active roster ahead of the team’s upcoming homestand.

The signing represents another opportunity for an aspiring professional player to advance his career through the NBA G League’s developmental system.

From Open Tryout to Professional Opportunity

Shawn Jones Jr: A Rising Star in the G League

For Jones, the journey to Laketown’s active roster began with an opportunity to showcase his skills during the organization’s September tryout.

Open tryouts provide players outside traditional professional pathways an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities in front of team personnel.

Jones made enough of an impression to earn an invitation to training camp, positioning himself for consideration as the Squadron finalized its roster.

His subsequent acquisition through the available player pool marks another significant step toward establishing himself in professional basketball.

The move also highlights the importance of the G League’s talent evaluation process, which provides organizations with additional opportunities to identify players capable of contributing throughout the season.

Mississippi State Experience Adds Versatility

Jones arrives with four seasons of collegiate experience at Mississippi State, where he developed his skills against competition in the Southeastern Conference.

During his senior campaign, Jones averaged 5.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 1.3 steals across 31 appearances, including 28 starts.

Although his scoring numbers were modest, his production in several statistical categories demonstrated his ability to contribute beyond putting points on the scoreboard.

His rebounding and defensive activity were particularly noteworthy for a perimeter player.

At 6-foot-6, Jones possesses the size to compete at multiple positions, potentially providing Laketown with additional flexibility in its backcourt and wing rotations.

His collegiate experience could prove beneficial as he adjusts to the pace and physical demands of professional basketball.

Squadron Continue Building Roster Depth

The acquisition comes as Laketown looks to establish consistency during the opening stages of its 2026-27 NBA G League campaign.

As the New Orleans Pelicans’ developmental affiliate, the Squadron plays an important role in preparing young players for potential opportunities at the NBA level.

Adding Jones provides another option for the coaching staff as it evaluates personnel and develops its rotation.

His defensive instincts, rebounding ability and experience competing against SEC opponents could help him compete for playing time.

However, earning a place on the active roster represents only the beginning of the challenge.

Jones will need to demonstrate consistency, adaptability and an understanding of the team’s offensive and defensive systems to establish a regular role.

Laketown Looks to Rebound After Season Opener

The Squadron opened their season Sunday with a 117-110 road loss to the Austin Spurs.

Despite the defeat, Laketown received encouraging offensive performances from two-way rookies Malik Dia and Jaron Pierre Jr.

Dia led all scorers with 31 points and grabbed 14 rebounds, while Pierre contributed 25 points.

The duo combined for 56 points, providing a promising foundation for Laketown’s offensive development.

Jones now joins a roster featuring emerging talent and players working to advance within the Pelicans organization.

His arrival adds another storyline as the Squadron prepares for its first home appearance of the season.

Home Opener Against Mexico City Approaches

Laketown returns to action Saturday, November 14, when it hosts the Mexico City Capitanes.

Tipoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. CT as the Squadron opens its home schedule.

The contest will also feature the organization’s Hispanic Heritage Day celebration.

For Jones, the upcoming homestand presents an opportunity to begin the next chapter of his basketball career in front of the Squadron’s home fans.

His availability for the active roster does not guarantee playing time, but the signing creates a potential opportunity for his professional debut.

STWF Sports Final Takeaway

The Squadron’s acquisition of Shawn Jones Jr. represents more than a routine roster addition.

It demonstrates how local tryouts can provide meaningful opportunities for talented players pursuing professional basketball careers.

Jones’ journey from Mississippi State to Laketown’s training camp and now the active roster reflects the importance of preparation and making the most of an opportunity.

For Jones, the next challenge will be transforming a successful tryout into a lasting role with the Squadron.

For Laketown, the move adds depth as the organization continues developing its roster and preparing for the challenges of a demanding NBA G League season.

With the home opener approaching, Jones will be among the new additions worth watching as the Squadron looks to secure its first victory.

STWF Sports | Laketown Squadron Coverage | NBA G League 2026–27 Season