Miami Heat forward Derrick Jones Jr. has the advantage of being 22 years old in the NBA and already having a niche.

Jones isn't an All-Star or even a starter on more than a frequent occasion, but what he is, is one of the best leapers in the league. And that raw athleticism and sheer gravity-defying bounce was on display during the first quarter of Monday's contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Before he was known for much else, Derrick Jones Jr. found himself in the NBA Slam Dunk Contest as a rookie back in 2016-17, his age-19 season. He played in just 32 games for the Phoenix Suns that year, averaging 5.3 points per game after going undrafted out of UNLV.

After more time with the Suns and in the G League, Jones made his way to the Miami Heat where more back-and-forth between South Beach and Sioux Falls awaited. Finally, Jones earned himself an NBA deal, appearing in 50 games (seven starts) this year.

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With the Heat battling injuries, Jones drew the start — his second straight — during Monday's contest. Entering play, he was averaging 7.2 points per contest, shooting above 50 percent from the floor on the season.

Miami has given the bouncy Jones an opportunity at playing time this year, allowing him a chance to show that his game can develop to match what he already so instinctively has. With that being said, it doesn't hurt to remind everyone what got him to the league in the first place.