Denver Nuggets rookie Spencer Jones opens up about his first NBA season, sharing the hard-earned lessons that shaped his growth on and off the court. From navigating team dynamics to taking control of his time, Jones reflects on what truly matters.
Spencer Jones came into the NBA the way many rookies do—smart, talented, and humble enough to know he had plenty to learn.
Spencer Jones
Spencer Jones
Spencer Jones
MIN: 6.23
PTS: 1.3 (37.84%)
REB: 0.85
As: 0.25
ST: 0.25
BL: 0.25
TO: 0.3
GM: 20
Jones entered the league as an intriguing mix of high-IQ talent and gritty versatility. After five years at Stanford, where he studied Management Science & Engineering and led the Cardinal in scoring, he went undrafted in 2023 but caught the eye of the Denver Nuggets with his work ethic, defensive potential, and leadership demeanor.
While minutes were scarce in a deep Denver rotation, Jones made the most of his time between the NBA and the G League, carving out a role with the Grand Rapids Gold while absorbing everything he could from stars like Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray.
He appeared in limited regular season action, but his presence behind the scenes was where his impact—and development—were most felt.
“Rookie year is like an unspoken bootcamp,” Jones said. “No one tells you the rules—but everyone’s watching how you adapt.”
But as he looks back on his first season with the Denver Nuggets, the Stanford graduate and former MS&E major isn't just reflecting on stats or minutes played. He’s thinking bigger—about ownership, perception, and growth.
“There’s no handbook for Year 1,” Jones wrote in a candid post shared on LinkedIn. “Just lessons you either learn fast… or the hard way.”
Mistake #1: Not Engaging with the Vets
One of Jones’ biggest takeaways was how much wisdom goes untapped in an NBA locker room. Coming from college, where players are all in the same age group, he found himself surrounded by veterans—guys over 30 with families, side businesses, and a wealth of experience.
Points this season
Denver Nuggets
NBA
“It took me months to realize how willing they are to share insights—on how to last in this league and how to make your money last as well. And often, you earn respect for asking.”
Jones now knows: silence isn’t humility—it’s missed opportunity.
Mistake #2: Not Taking Control of His Time
NBA schedules can be surprisingly open for those not in the rotation. Practices end by early afternoon, leaving rookies with freedom—and responsibility.
“There’s plenty of people to help, but you have to demand it. Extra shots? Film sessions? Treatment? You’ve got to ask.”
In a league where growth is optional, Jones realized that those who last choose it every day. The freedom wasn’t a perk—it was a test of discipline.
Mistake #3: Sitting at the End of the Bench
It may seem trivial, but where a player sits can say a lot. Jones admits he placed himself far down the bench as a form of deference. Until one game, he nearly missed his name being called.
“In this league, confidence isn’t optional—it’s required. If you don’t believe you belong, no one else will either.”
From that moment on, he understood that perception shapes reality. Playing small—even unintentionally—can come at a cost.
Mistake #4: Thinking It’s All About Performance
Jones doesn’t dismiss the value of playing well, but he’s quick to point out it’s not the whole equation.
“Performance matters. But so does timing. Injuries. Rotations. Fit. Sometimes even likability.”
He learned that being called up from the G League one week, then sent back the next, wasn’t always a judgment of his game—it was often about circumstances outside his control.
The NBA, he says, is a “bootcamp without a rulebook.” The ones who survive are the ones who learn to adapt without taking every twist personally.
As he heads into Year 2, Spencer Jones is no longer the wide-eyed rookie sitting in the shadows. He’s choosing to be proactive, confident, and intentional—on and off the court.
“Take ownership before someone else writes the narrative for you.”
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