Jonquel Jones is experiencing a resurgence in her career after opting to forgo overseas play during the offseason to recover from ankle surgery. The Liberty center, who underwent the procedure in October, took an unconventional approach by prioritizing rest and rehabilitation rather than participating in international leagues, a first for her in several years.

Jones, 32, has responded with strong performances in the current WNBA season, earning her sixth All-Star selection and second as a Liberty player. Following a season hindered by injury in 2025, she is averaging 15.2 points per game—her third-highest scoring average—alongside 9.1 rebounds and 2.7 assists. She has appeared in 21 of the Liberty’s 22 games, with increased playing time of approximately 29.5 minutes per game contributing to her improved output.

“It means a lot to me,” Jones said of her All-Star nod. She expressed gratitude toward fans who voted her in and described the selection as a validation of her ability to compete at an elite level.

Under the direction of new head coach Chris DeMarco, Jones’s role within the Liberty offense has expanded, particularly as a ball-handler. She is more involved in pick-and-roll plays and has significantly increased her perimeter shooting, attempting 4.7 three-pointers per game—a career high—and converting 41.2 percent of those shots. Additionally, her free-throw attempts have risen to 4.0 per game, up from 2.9 last season. Near the basket, Jones’s efficiency has also improved, shooting 62.5 percent from within five feet, compared to 59.5 percent the previous year.

Teammate Sabrina Ionescu praised Jones’s performance and consistency, highlighting her adaptability to the new system and her dominant presence on the court. “We’re so happy for her. She deserves every bit of it,” Ionescu said. She also acknowledged fellow Liberty star Breanna Stewart, noting the pair’s potential to represent the team cohesively at the All-Star event.

The upcoming All-Star Game will feature Liberty great Theresa Weatherspoon alongside Cynthia Cooper as honorary general managers responsible for team selections. When asked about the possibility of being drafted onto the same team, Stewart responded with humor, expressing confidence given Weatherspoon’s involvement.

Jones’s decision to rest during the offseason, combined with adjustments in coaching strategy, appears to have rekindled her effectiveness and bolstered the Liberty’s performance this season.