Texas G Andrew Jones diagnosed with leukemia

After spending a week undergoing tests and evaluations, Texas Longhorns sophomore guard Andrew Jones has been diagnosed with leukemia, the school revealed in a statement on Wednesday.

Following his recovery from a hairline fracture in his right wrist sustained against VCU in early December, Jones began experiencing fatigue as he attempted to return to the court. Ultimately, he only played 20 minutes in two games before missing last weekend’s contest against Baylor due to the ongoing tests and evaluations.

“He has begun treatments, and we hope everyone will keep him in your thoughts and prayers,” his family said. “This is obviously a difficult situation for our family, and we hope everyone will respect our privacy at this time.”

During a Tuesday media availability, head coach Shaka Smart indicated that the focus wasn’t on Jones returning to the basketball court this season — it was on him as a person.

“Speaking for our entire team and staff, we love Andrew and will do everything we can to support his family and help him get back to health,” Smart said in Wednesday’s statement. “I want to thank everyone for being respectful of the privacy that the Jones family needs at this time.”

Newly-hired athletic director Chris Del Conte also expressed his support.

“We know Andrew’s a fighter with a strong family and our thoughts, prayers and support are fully behind them. At The University of Texas, we will do everything in our power to provide all of the resources we can to assist Andrew and his family.”