Jones to follow recent Hoosier prep tradition and play at Hargrave

When E’Shaunte Jones committed to the Hoosiers last November, he knew his college-playing days would be at IU, but he wasn’t sure where he would play prep school after high school.\nJones said last Friday night he has decided to follow recent IU tradition and is planning to attend Hargrave Academy in Virginia. \n“Hargrave is my No. 1 choice right now,” Jones said. “If any changes come, they would be within a couple of weeks, but right now Hargrave is the choice.”\nWith the transfer of Joey Shaw to Southern Idaho, there was some speculation that Jones would skip prep school and play for the Hoosiers next season. But Jones confirmed Friday night he would be reclassifying to the class of 2008. \nJones, who is nicknamed “Bear,” averaged 27.7 points a game his senior season for Fort Wayne North Side and is second on Fort Wayne’s all-time scoring list behind IU wide receiver James Hardy. Jones came within 43 points this season of tying Hardy’s record.\nThe choice of Hargrave Academy was a logical one for Jones. The prep school has graduated Armon Bassett as well as incoming IU recruit Jordan Crawford. \n“I saw Armon was successful; that’s why I really choose Hargrave. They have a great coach over there and have a good reputation,” Jones said. “I just want to get it done there and then go to IU.” \nThe 6-foot-4 guard said the Hoosiers helped facilitate his choice of Hargrave, but ultimately he made the decision on his own.\n“I think they did (help), a little bit,” he said. “But it was also a great choice for me and it’s something I need. Hard work goes on there, and I’m satisfied with my decision.” \nLike many high school players, Jones is hoping his season of prep school will lead to improved results at the college level.\n“I really want to work on my strength,” he said. “I’m just trying to get stronger for the Big Ten – it’s a big-time conference.” \nJones played alongside Eric Gordon last Friday during the Hoosiers Reunion All-Star Classic. The North Side graduate finished the game with 11 points and impressed at least one Hoosier.\n“He’s great. He’s just another scorer and makes things easier for me,” Gordon said. “I was just trying to do the same and make things easier for him.” \nJones, a versatile player, said he is eager to play for the Hoosiers and isn’t worried about which position he ends up playing. \n“I just want to play,” he said. “They can put me anywhere on the floor.”