Iowa’s Ava Jones is medically retiring from college basketball, two years after sustaining serious injuries in a car crash that killed her father.
Jones, from Nickerson, Kan., was with her parents and brother on July 5, 2022, standing on a sidewalk when they were struck by an allegedly intoxicated driver. Her dad, Trey, succumbed to his injuries days later while her mother, Amy, suffered multiple severe injuries. Several surgeries were required to save her leg from amputation.
The player’s younger brother received minor injuries.
Jones wasn’t medically cleared to play last season and never suited up for the Hawkeyes. She committed to Iowa just days before the accident.
New Iowa coach Jan Jensen said Jones will remain on scholarship to complete her education.
“We wish Ava the best on the road to recovery and fully support the decision she made to step away from the game,” Jensen said. “She worked tirelessly to get to this point, but she made the best decision for herself and her well-being.”
Jones also commented on Friday.
“I would like to start by saying how grateful I am to have been a part of the Iowa women’s basketball program. I am extremely blessed to have been a part of the journey last season.
“It is with great sadness to announce that I am medically retiring from college basketball. My coaches, doctors, teammates and trainers have been amazing since the accident. While I will no longer be a member of the women’s basketball program, I will still be on scholarship, receive a world-class education and forever be a Hawkeye.”
“I’d like to thank my family for the never-ending support and I am excited for the next chapter of my life.”
The accident occurred in Louisville, Ky., where the family was visiting for an AAU tournament. The car jumped a curb and lunged onto the sidewalk, striking the family.
The driver, Michael Hurley, was indicted by a grand jury and charged with one count of murder, two counts of first-degree assault, one count of fourth-degree assault and operating a motor vehicle under the influence.
His case has yet to go to trial.
–Field Level Media
