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Akron basketball recruiting, RJ Jones, JaShawn Ladd and Devan Christion sign with Zips
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- Akron basketball recruiting, RJ Jones, JaShawn Ladd and Devan Christion sign with Zips
University of Akron men's basketball coach John Groce announced Nov. 13 that RJ Jones, JaShawn Ladd and Devan Christion have signed national letters of intent to play for the Zips during the 2026-27 season.
Jones is a 6-foot-5 guard at Cleveland St. Ignatius High School. He was a starter last season when Ignatius defeated Canton McKinley in a Division I regional final and then lost to eventual state champion Olentangy Orange in a state semifinal .
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"RJ is an intriguing athlete with size, versatility and basketball IQ," Groce said in a prepared statement. "He excites me because he is a player who can impact both ends of the floor while playing and guarding multiple positions. He plays for one of the best programs in the state of Ohio and has a hunger for winning and player development."
Ladd is a 6-4 guard at Ben Davis High School in Indianapolis. He averaged 13.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.6 steals to help the Giants to a 17-9 record last season. He shot 41% (41 of 99) from beyond the 3-point arc.
Ben Davis High School junior Jashawn Ladd dunks during the second half of a championship game of the Marion County basketball tournament against North Central, Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025.
"JaShawn is an explosive and skilled athlete who impacts the game defensively and offensively," Groce said. "His size and versatility allow him to create scoring opportunities for himself and others. He comes from one of Indiana's most prestigious high school basketball programs, where he has learned how to win. In addition, JaShawn played for a very good AAU organization [Indiana Basketball Club] that assisted in his development."
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Christion is a 6-9 forward from Las Vegas who plays at Ed W. Clark High School.
"Devan is a versatile forward with a high level of athleticism and skill," Groce said . "His length and physicality will enhance our ability to score, defend and rebound. Devan has played for some well-respected basketball programs, both high school and AAU, that have contributed significantly to his development."
Akron Beacon Journal sports writer Michael Beaven can be reached by email at mbeaven@thebeaconjournal.com .
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: RJ Jones, JaShawn Ladd, Devan Christion sign with Akron basketball
