Indiana Pacers Select Marquette’s Kam Jones with 38th Pick in 2025 NBA Draft
Indiana Pacers Select Marquette’s Kam Jones with 38th Pick in 2025 NBA Draft
The Indiana Pacers added backcourt depth and scoring versatility on Thursday night by selecting Marquette University standout Kam Jones with the 38th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The selection, which came early in the second round, highlights Indiana’s ongoing commitment to youth development and perimeter firepower.
Jones, a 6-foot-5 guard, emerged as one of the most dynamic scorers in college basketball during his four-year career at Marquette. Known for his crafty shot-making, high basketball IQ, and smooth left-handed release, Jones helped lead the Golden Eagles to consistent success in the BIG EAST Conference under head coach Shaka Smart.
A Decorated College Career
In his senior year, Jones averaged 19.2 points, 5.9 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game—solidifying himself as the team’s leader on and off the court. His offensive output and leadership earned him All-BIG EAST First Team honors and consensus Second Team All-America recognition.
Jones finished his college career second on Marquette’s all-time scoring list with 2,044 points. His growth as a playmaker was equally impressive, as he posted one of the nation’s best assist-to-turnover ratios in 2024–25. Coaches and scouts alike praised his work ethic, leadership qualities, and steady improvement over his four-year collegiate run.
“Kam is the kind of player every coach loves to have,” said Shaka Smart. “He competes, he cares about winning, and he constantly pushes himself to get better. The Pacers are getting a special player and an even better person.”
Why Indiana Made the Move
Originally selected by the San Antonio Spurs at No. 38, Jones’s draft rights were quickly traded to Indiana for a future second-round pick and cash considerations. The Pacers had targeted Jones throughout the pre-draft process and were eager to secure his services as soon as he became available.
“With Tyrese Haliburton out indefinitely with an Achilles injury, we needed to add backcourt talent that can handle the ball, score, and facilitate,” said Pacers general manager Chad Buchanan. “Kam fits our culture and style. He’s efficient, unselfish, and fearless.”
The Pacers’ decision to acquire Jones also makes financial sense. As a second-round pick, his rookie contract will be significantly more team-friendly than that of a first-round selection, which is crucial for a team projected to be in luxury tax territory for the first time in two decades.
Scouting the Fit
Jones projects as a combo guard capable of playing both on and off the ball. His smooth shooting stroke, coupled with his ability to read defenses and make smart decisions, should translate well to Indiana’s system. His size and length will also give the Pacers flexibility on the defensive end.
“He’s a guy who can come in, run the second unit, and give you buckets,” one scout noted. “He reminds some people of a younger Malcolm Brogdon—smart, efficient, and tough.”
Jones is expected to join Indiana’s Summer League roster in Las Vegas, where he’ll have an opportunity to showcase his skills and compete for early playing time heading into training camp.
A Dream Realized
For Jones, the moment was the culmination of years of hard work and belief.
“I’ve been dreaming of this since I was a kid,” Jones said during a post-draft interview. “To hear my name called and to join a franchise like Indiana is a blessing. I’m ready to work and give everything I have to help this team win.”
With Kam Jones now officially part of the Pacers’ promising young core, Indiana fans have yet another rising star to rally around as the franchise looks to build on its recent playoff success and make a
nother deep postseason run in 2026.
