Texas basketball sophomore guard Andrew Jones has been keeping his head up since his leukemia diagnosis in January.
Throughout the start of the month, Jones has been periodically posting videos and pictures of himself on Instagram shooting hoops and hanging out with fellow teammate, junior guard Elijah Mitrou-Long. Jones wears gloves and a surgical mask as extra precaution but continues to show that he’s still got his athletic chops.
Many of Jones’ fans have been keeping up with him as well through social media. One of the videos he posted on Instagram even made it to the front page of Reddit and has received upward of 28,000 upvotes and 500 comments. Redditors commented on Jones’ perseverance and sent well-wishes his way. They noted that he has made a lot of progress in a short time since his family had shared that just a month ago, Jones had trouble getting out of bed.
Andrew Jones, the Texans Longhorns guard that was diagnosed with Leukemia, is still getting buckets! from r/sports
However, it’s been a little shaky on the court without one of Texas’ top players. Jones’ team has slipped to a 15–10 record (5–7 Big 12) and lost to TCU in Fort Worth last Saturday. Although the Longhorns must continue to endure a tough conference schedule without their star guard, other players have stepped up in honor of Jones — freshman sensation Mo Bamba has averaged 18.2 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.8 blocks at the forward position over the last five games.
In the face of a recently fractured wrist and the beginning cancer treatment, it seems that Jones is still practicing what he loves and is receiving prayers and warmth from people across the nation. In a statement released by the University, Jones’ parents shared that he had been making some positive strides, and that they appreciate the outpour of love and support. For now, they ask that everyone respect their family’s privacy during this difficult time.