Branford Jones

Elkins High School

Missouri City, TX

6’2/175

Long Beach State

Class of 2012 

FH: First off, our guys at Future Of Hoops would like to congratulate you on signing with Long Beach State. What about them stood out to you?

BJ: Thank you so much. I loved how much of a family related team they are and academics are first there. They also have a Houston and Dallas kid on the team, so I have somebody to relate to.

FH: Long Beach State is having a nice season so far. They beat Pittsburgh and played a lot of big name schools close. How do you feel about their current success?
BJ: I’m proud of them. That just shows the hard work they’re putting in over there.

FH: LBSU also signed Javion Watson and Deng Deng. Have you had a chance to get to know those guys yet?
BJ: I have talked to Deng Deng for a while and we have became friends, but I haven’t talked to Javion yet.

FH: What goals do you have set once you start attending LBSU?
BJ: First off, do good in all my classes so I can play basketball, but pretty much just go there and work hard so I can help out the team.

FH: With the team losing seniors Casper Ware, Corey Jackson, Sean Starkey, Larry Anderson, Eugene Phelps, Edis Dervisevic, and T.J. Robinson do you feel you’ll be able to come in and be a starter next season or will it take time to adjust?
BJ: I have a lot of confidence in myself right now. I feel I could start and if not play off the bench. I just have to be ready for anything.

FH: Do you feel you could help lead Long Beach State to a national title during your time at the school?
BJ: YES I COULD

FH: What drives you to keep improving as a basketball player? Do you have an inspiration?
BJ: Just seeing my family go through and still going through a lot. That’s what drives me to keep working.

FH: What do you think your chances are of playing in the NBA one day?
BJ: That has always been a dream of mine and I know that will be tough. I just have to go out there and play.

FH: Were there any other schools you strongly considered?
BJ: I liked the Citadel and Detroit.

FH: Who would you most compare your style of play to in either the NCAA or NBA?
BJ: I would compare my style of play to Dwayne Wade

FH: Last one. What were some of the major deciding factors in choosing Long Beach State?
BJ: The players and coaches were cool and easy to talk to. The campus and the surround area kind of reminded me of home and if I get home sick they have some Texas boys there to be there for me.

FH: That’s all we’ve got. Thanks for doing the interview. Good luck to you and your team the rest of the season.
BJ: Thanks and no problem.