Former Iowa Women’s Basketball Player Diagnosed with Cancer

Let's get one thing straight. No one deserves to hear the words, 'You have cancer.' But when those words were told to former Iowa women's basketball player Ava Jones, they seemed especially hollow and cruel.

Jones, the native of Nickerson, Kansas, committed to play basketball at the University of Iowa on July 3rd, 2022 according to the Cedar Rapids Gazette. Two days later, her family's life would change forever. While attending an AAU tournament in Louisville, Kentucky, Jones and her family were hit while walking on the sidewalk by a car driven by someone under the influence. The Gazette reports that Jones and both her parents suffered severe injuries. Her father, Trey Jones, would die just three days later.

The Gazette reports that Ava suffered a brain injury, a broken collarbone, and massive damage to both of her knees. Despite the injuries, Iowa head coach Lisa Bluder announced that Iowa would still honor Ava's scholarship. Jones would never play at Iowa and medically retired from the game of basketball in 2024 according to the Gazette. Now this young woman and family that has dealt with so much already, has to now fight cancer.

The Gazette reports that Ava announced on social media that she has been diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma. It is a type of cancer that attacks the lymph system, which protects the body from infection and disease. Jones went on to say "My body is very strong and I am confident here in the doctors here at Iowa."

Everyone wishes Ava strength and courage in her battle against this disease. We already know she is a fighter!

Get our free mobile app