With the transfer portal becoming an ever bigger part of the college basketball landscape over the past few seasons, it’s not surprising Coach Schmidt is supplementing his roster with high-end Junior College transfers. The Bonnies' 4th commitment of the offseason came from Lajae Jones, a 6’7’’ forward from Barton CC.
In his senior season of high school, Jones averaged 20.7 and 7.4 rebounds at Fletcher in Florida. Lajae’s college career started with his commitment to D1 Tarleton State out of high school. There, Jones appeared in 10 games averaging 3.6 points. Following his freshman season, Jones transferred to Barton CC in Kansas, where he was a key part of Barton’s JUCO national championship season and 36-1 record. In the national championship game, he won MVP honors after posting a 14 point, 13 rebound double double. Along with being awarded MVP, Jones was named a 2nd-Team All-American after averaging nearly a double double with 15.4 points and 9.2 rebounds. The forward shot 42.2% from beyond the arc, something that should add much needed shooting depth to the 2024-25 roster.
I interviewed Lajae to introduce him to the St. Bonaventure community.
How did you get into basketball and how did you become the player you are now?
“Just being in a basketball family. My dad, he just put the ball in my hands. And becoming the basketball player I am is just working and just trusting the process.”
Have you heard anything about playing in the Reilly Center or about the program?
“St. Bonaventure I had heard of before, but I'm just excited to play in the Reilly Center.”
How would you describe last season, winning the national championship and being the MVP, how did that feel?
“It felt good. I just knew we had the best team and I just felt like it would’ve been a let down if we didn’t win it all.”
How would you describe your play style and yourself as a player?
“Very versatile. I'm able to do a lot of things that a lot of people can’t do. I can change up my game to whatever is needed for winning.”
What would you say is an underrated part of your game that might surprise some people?
“My passing.”
What do you want to work on most this upcoming season?
“Probably my offensive game. I feel like it’s good, but I know it can get a lot better.”
In the transfer portal you heard from a lot of programs, what stood out about Bonaventure?
“The rich tradition that St. Bonaventure has, and the connections and fanbase.”
Do you have anything you want the fans to know about you as a person?
“I’m just a comedian, just like to make people laugh.”