In a historic move for Jamaican volleyball, Aiko Jones has signed a professional contract with the Atlanta Vibe, marking the first time a Jamaican-born player has joined the Volleyball Pro League in the United States.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and known for her prowess as an opposite hitter, Jones has had an impressive collegiate career at the University of Louisville in Kentucky and is now ready to make an impact at the professional level.
The Atlanta Vibe, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is part of the Pro Volleyball Federation and began competing in the league’s inaugural 2024 season. Their home games are held at the Gas South Arena in Duluth, Georgia. Jones’ signing is expected to significantly enhance the team’s performance, given her extensive experience and versatile playing style.
A family tradition
Born on August 12, 1999, in Kingston, Jamaica, Jones attended Wolmer’s Girls’ School where she excelled in both volleyball and track and field. Her volleyball career continues a family tradition, as her parents, Paula-Anne Porter-Jones and Dr. Thaon Jon Jones, were also accomplished athletes.
Jones expressed her enthusiasm for this new chapter, stating, “Playing professional volleyball has been a dream of mine since I first stepped onto the court at Marescaux Road. Signing this contract is a major milestone, and I am committed to continuing to give my best.”
She hinted at the signing on social media, posting, “What are the odds I signed my first professional contract in the same stadium I stood in front of #CardNation for the first time?”
During her time with the Louisville Cardinals, Jones became a dominant presence on the court. In 2023, she was recognized with AVCA All-East Region honors and was named to the All-ACC Second Team. Over 112 sets, she recorded 249 kills with a .260 hitting percentage, alongside 15 assists, 27 aces, 147 digs, and 86 blocks. Her standout performance included 13 kills against Florida State.
Instrumental in her team’s success
The previous year, Jones was instrumental in her team’s success, earning spots on the Final Four All-Tournament team, the All-Louisville Regional team, the AVCA First-Team All-East Region team, and the All-ACC First Team. She played in all 119 sets, achieving 300 kills with a .268 hitting percentage, leading the team with 44 aces, and contributing 108 total blocks, for a total of 401 points for the season.
Jones is currently pursuing a master’s degree in communications, balancing her academic and athletic commitments. Her signing with the Atlanta Vibe represents a significant milestone for Jamaican athletes, paving the way for future talents from the island to pursue professional volleyball opportunities.
As Aiko Jones begins this new chapter with the Atlanta Vibe, the volleyball community in Jamaica and her supporters around the world will be eagerly following her progress and celebrating her achievements in the sport.
