About
Biography
Manaya Jones is an accomplished basketball athlete known for her exceptional skills on the court. Born on March 15, 2001, in Atlanta, Georgia, she showcased her talent at an early age, leading her high school team to multiple state championships. Jones gained national attention during her senior year when she was named a McDonald's All-American and received the Naismith High School Trophy for the best player in her category.
Jones played college basketball at the University of North Carolina, where she distinguished herself in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Throughout her collegiate career, she earned several accolades, including All-Conference Honors and placement on the ACC All-Tournament Team. In her junior year, she led the Tar Heels to the NCAA Tournament, achieving a personal best in scoring and assists, ultimately concluding her college career with over 1,500 points.
After completing her degree in Sports Management, Jones declared for the WNBA Draft in 2023, where she was selected in the first round by the Seattle Storm. Her rookie season was marked by impressive performances, establishing her as a key player and earning her a place on the WNBA All-Rookie Team. As a rising star in professional basketball, Jones's impact on the game continues to be profound, influencing young athletes and leaving a lasting legacy in women's sports.