Darcy Jones is the first Western Australian to be nominated for the 2024 Rising Star Award.
The young Swan Districts product had a turbulent start to the AFL, undergoing knee surgery in his first season, but in his second season he is repaying the Giants’ faith in him in spades.
He was instrumental in GWS’ stunning comeback win over Carlton on Saturday, collecting 18 possessions at an efficiency rate of 78 per cent and seven goal involvements.
Jones also scored a goal in his first game back from the hamstring injury he sustained in Round 10.
After Carlton kicked eight majors in the first period, the Giants stormed home and scored a thrilling 12-point victory to get their season back on track.
Jones was drafted with pick 21 in 2022 and has played five games.
The 20-year-old also received a contract extension in 2023 that ties him to the Giants until the end of 2026.
This season, the race for the Rising Star medal is wide open, with the favourites being West Coast’s Harley Reid and the Western Bulldogs’ Sam Darcy, both of whom are ineligible after serving a two-week suspension.
Jones is the second Giant to be nominated for the award this season, with teammate Harvey Thomas receiving the nomination in Round 14.