Stanford's basketball scene might be experiencing a dip this season, but two former Cardinal stars are lighting up the NBA and giving fans plenty to cheer about. Maxime Raynaud and Spencer Jones have taken their talents to the professional stage, and their performances are nothing short of impressive.
Spencer Jones, who went undrafted in 2024, recently announced his promotion to a full-time NBA player with the Denver Nuggets. “I got a raise!”
he exclaimed on LinkedIn, celebrating the end of his two-way contract era. Jones has become a vital part of Denver's rotation, averaging 5.9 points and 3.2 rebounds on a solid 50% shooting.
His breakout moment came with a career-high 28-point game against the Dallas Mavericks, setting the stage for his rise as the playoffs loom.
During his five seasons at Stanford, Jones left a mark by ranking second all-time in games played and placing in the top 10 for both points and field goals. His sharpshooting, with over 40% from beyond the arc, and defensive skills have made him a perfect fit alongside Nuggets' star Nikola Jokic. Jones has hit double figures 11 times this season, showcasing his ability to deliver when it counts.
On the other hand, Maxime Raynaud is making waves in his rookie season with the Sacramento Kings. Drafted 42nd overall, Raynaud has quickly established himself as one of the league’s standout rookies. With averages of 10.1 points and seven rebounds while shooting 55% from the field, he's demonstrating the same prowess that made him a standout at Stanford.
Raynaud's recent performances have been particularly noteworthy. He put up 17 points and 14 rebounds in a tough loss to the Orlando Magic and followed it with another double-double against the Memphis Grizzlies, helping to end the Kings' 16-game losing streak. With four double-doubles in his last five games, Raynaud is proving to be a force on the court.
For Stanford fans, the success of Jones and Raynaud in the NBA offers a thrilling narrative during a challenging season for their alma mater's basketball team. These two are not just playing in the league; they're making their mark and showing that the future is bright for Cardinal talent in the NBA.