Rockets rising star Jones leaps to Panthers' den

Image credit: Tia De Santis @tia.desa

The South Adelaide Panthers have secured their first men’s signing of the 2027 NBL1 Central season, acquiring 2026 Frank Angove Medallist Oskar Jones from the North Adelaide Rockets.

Awarded to the highest-placed player under 23 years of age in the Woollacott Medal count, Jones enjoyed a fantastic season for the Rockets in 2026.

The 22-year-old experienced an almighty jump in his on-court production this past season.

He led North Adelaide in points, assists, and steals per game, after only averaging 3.4 points in nine minutes per game for Geelong in 2025.

The rising talent averaged 21.1 points, 4.1 assists and 2 steals per game, with three of North Adelaide’s wins surfacing when he scored 28 points or more.

Jones’ most emphatic scoring performance came in a narrow two-point loss to Woodville, showcasing his potential.

He scored 40 points on 62 per cent shooting, hit 8 free throws and scored 6 three-pointers, demonstrating offensive versatility as he also tallied a season-high 7 assists.

Jones will be given the opportunity to thrive under experienced head coach Conner Henry, with South Adelaide hoping to trump the strong opposition of Forestville and Sturt in the 2027 NBL1 Central season.

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