John Kel Jones Expresses Frustration Over Injury and All-Star Snub
John Kel Jones from Liberty Center did not hold back on her feelings about how a sprained ankle disrupted what could have been an all-star season. “I’m mad,” she admitted after practice on Wednesday. “I’m not going to lie; I’m really mad about it.”
Having been named an All-Star in five of the last seven seasons—2024 included—securing that sixth selection was a personal goal for Jones this year. The 2024 WNBA Finals MVP was genuinely positioned to realize that dream.
In her first nine games, Jones averaged 15.3 points and 11.3 rebounds while shooting an impressive 48.5% from the field and 44.4% from beyond the arc. Unfortunately, her right ankle took a hit on June 5 in Washington, and the injury worsened when she landed awkwardly on a teammate’s leg during her second match.
This week, it was confirmed that Jones will not be starting in the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game. Now, she’s holding out hope to be named as one of the 12 reserves, a decision made by the league’s head coaches.
While there’s no minimum game requirement for All-Star selection, Jones recognizes that her injury may have affected her chances. “I know when it’s coming,” she said, “but I’m definitely upset about it. If something happens and I’m not selected, I’ll be very upset.”
Being left out of the All-Star Weekend, scheduled for July 18-19 in Indianapolis, is just one of the hurdles Jones has faced since sustaining her ankle injury during Liberty’s loss to the Mercury on June 19. She had to sit back and watch as her team struggled to a 1-3 record on a 10-day road trip.
“It was tough seeing that,” she reflected. “It was difficult…but I think there are a few things we can control as a team.”
With Liberty now set to play their next eight games in Brooklyn, they won’t hit the road again until a matchup in Dallas on July 28. Jones believes this extended home stretch will aid her recovery, especially since swelling is a significant issue with sprains. The routine of being home offers her a sense of stability, despite the setbacks.
“I can see my dog every day, and they make me happy,” Jones mentioned. “I can do regular walks and get into a routine when I’m at the gym or in rehab.”
Moreover, Jones plans to host a “Love Island” watch party with her teammates at her Brooklyn apartment. Liberty announced on June 21 that she would be sidelined for four to six weeks. About two weeks into her rehab, she admits she lacks a definitive return date but feels she’s making progress. “I’m in a good place,” she stated. “I want to be as close to 100% as possible before getting back on the court.”
