Ava Jones arrives at University of Iowa, hopes to play basketball

NICKERSON, Kan. (KAKE) - A Kansas high school basketball star who was nearly killed when a car crashed into her family last year is beginning the next chapter of her life at the University of Iowa. 

“It feels really good. Just being here, it's been a rough time this year. So even to have this opportunity is amazing," Ava Jones told KAKE news on Monday.

She moved into her dorm on Sunday.

"It’s Hawkeye move-in day!" Ava Jones' mother Amy said in a Facebook group. "Thanks to the players and coaches for welcoming us with open arms and a couple of luggage carts:) After four trips to Target in the last 3 hours I think we are ready to bid Ava farewell."

Louisville, Kentucky police said that on July 5, 2022, Ava, along with her mother Amy, brother Creek and father Trey Jones were hit by a driver under the influence. The crash killed Trey Jones, and left Ava and Amy in critical condition.

Both mother and daughter worked hard on the road toward healing, with doctors telling Ava they were unsure if she would ever play basketball again.

But in January, Ava returned to the court and made her first basket for Nickerson since being injured. 

In November, she signed her letter of intent to play for the University of Iowa. She's now there on a full-ride scholarship, regardless of her ability to play. 

She says the team has already welcomed here with open arms.

"They're excited for me to be here. Makes it feel like home.”

Jones says she is continuing her rehab while at Iowa in hopes to be able to play for the Hawkeyes one day. Until that point happens, she says she's tankful for how far she has come.

"I’m proud of myself. I wake up and I try hard every day just to be able to be where I am now,” Ava said.