Updated March 25, 2026, 4:22 p.m. ET

Kam Jones has had an up-and-down year with the Indiana Pacers, but coach Rick Carlisle commended the rookie for staying ready to contribute on the court.

Jones is averaging 4.1 points, 2.7 assists and 1.4 rebounds while shooting 30.9% from 3-point range in 30 appearances with the Pacers. He is one of 23 rookies with a double-double this season after recording 10 points and 10 assists on March 1.

The 38th overall pick missed the preseason and the first 24 games of the regular season because of a lower back stress reaction. He has impressed the team with his on-court production, especially considering that he couldn’t debut until Dec. 22.

“He has done a great job,” Carlisle said on Monday. “He had a very difficult start because he missed almost two months with an unusual back condition that required that he just simply rest and not move, so he fell behind on conditioning and rhythm and those kinds of things. As he came back, he played some G League games, and then our injury situation has magnified at times, and he has gotten some great opportunities — he has even started some games.”

Jones has made seven starts for Carlisle, averaging 10.6 points, 7.1 assists and 3.6 rebounds on 40% shooting from beyond the arc. He reached double figures in scoring in each start, including a career-high 14-point, nine-assist effort on March 10.

Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!

The former Marquette All-American has logged seven appearances in the G League, averaging 13.3 points, 6.7 assists, 4.4 rebounds and 1.4 steals with the Noblesville Boom. He recorded a season-high 23 points and eight assists on Jan. 19.

Jones was highly touted out of college because of his scoring and playmaking ability. He has showcased those traits in a limited sample size and projects to have a bright future with the organization.

“He has gotten a lot of good experience under his belt,” Carlisle said. “He has shown all of the things that he can do: He has a great feel. He can score the ball. He is resourceful when he gets into the lane; he makes plays. He can pass it, and his defense has improved.”