Mike Jones
Assistant Coach

For the second time in his 14-year coaching career, Mike Jones will call Richmond home.

After spending the past six years at the University of Georgia, Jones returns to the Capital City to round out Shaka Smart’s coaching staff for the Virginia Commonwealth University men’s basketball program.

“We are extremely excited about the addition of Mike Jones to our staff,” said Smart.  “He brings a wealth of experience both in terms of on-floor coaching and recruiting.  His character is second to none and he has a tremendous ability to develop strong relationships with student-athletes, coaches, fans, high school coaches and the like.”

Recognized by Rivals.com as one of the nation’s top-25 recruiters in 2005, Jones left his mark with Georgia after signing standouts such as Trey Thompkins and Sundiata Gaines.

Thompkins was an All-Rookie selection in the SEC this past season and was recently named to the Team USA U19 tryout roster. Gaines was a Second Team and All-Defensive Team selection in the SEC in 2007-2008 and now stars in Europe on the professional level.

Prior to Georgia, Jones spent the 2002-2003 campaign at West Virginia, where he had moved with Head Coach John Beilein. The duo had worked together the previous two seasons at VCU’s cross-town rival, Richmond, leading the squad to consecutive appearances in the National Invitation Tournament.

The Silver Spring, Md., native also had assistant coaching stops at his alma mater, Howard University from 1994-97 and Furman University from 1997-2000.

His basketball prowess does not end with his coaching expertise. Jones was a four-year starter at Howard, where he earned a degree in zoology in 1990. The 1985-86 Bison squad enjoyed the nation’s longest winning streak during that season.

After his outstanding collegiate career, Jones earned a tryout with the NBA’s New Jersey Nets.