The plan for Casey Jones remains firmly in place. Despite being miles away from the court, focusing on his Mormon mission, Jones is expected to return this summer and join the Cougar basketball program, according to head coach David Riley.
Every week, Riley receives updates that offer glimpses into Jones' growth and the discipline he's gaining through his mission work. The original plan was for Jones to redshirt this season and return for his final year in 2027-28, and that timeline is still on track.
"That's the plan," Riley shared. "He finishes his mission late summer, and I get updates every Monday.
It's fascinating to be connected to someone on a Mormon mission and learn about the experiences and growth he's having. I know he'll come back a better person."
Whether Jones redshirts next year or not, Riley believes he’ll be a significant asset to the team. "He has a championship mindset and really elevates practice intensity. We’ll discuss his role when he returns," Riley added.
In his last season, Jones averaged 12.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 26.6 minutes per game. He shot an impressive 54.7 percent from two-point range and 36.2 percent from beyond the arc on 58 attempts. His defensive prowess was evident as he led Eastern in steals with 33, earning a spot on the Big Sky All-Defensive team and a second-team All-Big Sky nod.
While Jones is set to join, a couple of Cougars are looking to move on. Kase Wynott and Eemeli Yalaho are expected to enter the transfer portal when it opens on April 7.
"Two guys I really care about," Riley said. "Kase battled injuries but his dedication to the game is unmatched.
He’s always in the gym, and I’m excited to see where he lands. Hopefully, he gets a fresh start."
Yalaho, meanwhile, had a solid season. "He’s a quiet leader who had a calming influence on the team. He’s got a chance to make life-changing money in the portal, and I’m happy for him," Riley noted.
Regarding Rihards Vavers, who recently disputed rumors about entering the portal, Riley mentioned that ongoing conversations are happening with players about their futures.
Wynott, originally from Lapwai, Idaho, showed promise early in the season before an injury sidelined him in November. He scored 20 points in five games and is likely to receive a medical redshirt.
Yalaho, a junior from Jyvaskyla, Finland, averaged 10.1 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, shooting 39.8 percent from deep. He played in all 32 games, starting 27.
Riley also confirmed that Simon Hildebrandt has exhausted his eligibility, marking the end of his college career.