So how do you get a nickname like “Slinky?”
According to Newburgh Free Academy center/forward Jakwan Jones, he became “Slinky” when his close friend, Jabari Wells, gave him the moniker when they were kid. Wells, also from Newburgh, plays at New York Military Academy in Cornwall.
Jones, 6-foot-5 junior, has been a key addition for Newburgh this season. He averages about eight points and six rebounds for the Goldbacks. Newburgh (7-2) has won five in a row since losing at Middletown on Dec. 12. The Goldbacks end what will be a 17-day layoff when they take on Troy on Jan. 27.
Of course, Newburgh is once again in the mix for the Section 9 Class AA championship. The Goldbacks have a win over Kingston with one game remaining apiece against the Tigers and Middletown. I spoked with Jones and Newburgh swingman Anthony Salmon at practice on Friday.
