Jade Upshaw has emerged as a standout player for the Central Arkansas Sugar Bears women’s basketball team. The talented guard has been making waves in the ASUN conference, showcasing her skills on both ends of the court.
Upshaw’s recent performances have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike. Her career-high 31-point game against Lipscomb University demonstrated her offensive prowess.
Upshaw’s impact on the Sugar Bears extends beyond just scoring. She leads the team in minutes played, averaging 29.2 minutes per game, and has started all 33 games this season.
Her consistent presence on the court has been crucial to Central Arkansas’s success in the competitive NCAAW basketball landscape.
The recognition of Upshaw’s talents has not gone unnoticed by the conference. She was named ASUN Player of the Week following her outstanding performances, which included a remarkable 7-for-11 shooting from beyond the arc in a single game. This sharpshooting ability has helped Central Arkansas set a new program record for three-pointers made against a Division I opponent.
High School Dominance
Jade Upshaw’s high school basketball career was marked by exceptional performance, record-breaking achievements, and numerous accolades. Her talent and dedication set the stage for her future success at Central Arkansas.
Detailed Account of Her High School Career
Upshaw attended Broken Arrow High School in Oklahoma, where she quickly became a standout player. As a freshman, she earned a spot on the varsity team and made an immediate impact.
Her scoring ability and court vision improved each year. By her junior year, Upshaw was averaging over 20 points per game. She led her team to the state playoffs, showcasing her leadership skills and clutch performance in high-pressure situations.
In her senior season, Upshaw took her game to new heights. She broke the school’s single-season scoring record and was named to the All-State team.
Specific Statistics from Key Games and Seasons
Upshaw’s statistical achievements were impressive throughout her high school career. Here are some key highlights:
- Junior Year: 22.3 points per game, 5.7 assists, 4.2 rebounds
- Senior Year: 26.8 points per game, 6.5 assists, 5.1 rebounds
- Career High: 42 points against rival Union High School
- State Playoff Game: 35 points, 8 assists in a quarterfinal victory
Her shooting percentages were equally remarkable:
| Season | Field Goal % | 3-Point % | Free Throw % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior | 48.2% | 38.7% | 85.3% |
| Senior | 51.6% | 41.2% | 89.1% |
Awards and Recognition
Upshaw’s outstanding performances earned her numerous awards and recognition:
- Two-time All-State selection (junior and senior years)
- Oklahoma Gatorade Player of the Year finalist
- McDonald’s All-American nominee
- Broken Arrow High School Athlete of the Year
- First Team All-Conference (3 consecutive years)
She was also featured in local newspapers and sports highlight reels, gaining attention from college recruiters across the country.
Quotes from High School Coaches or Teammates
Upshaw’s impact extended beyond statistics, as evidenced by praise from her coaches and teammates.
Her high school coach, Sarah Thompson, stated, “Jade is a once-in-a-generation player. Her work ethic and basketball IQ are unmatched. She made everyone around her better.”
Teammate Leah Mafua added, “Playing with Jade was incredible. She always knew where to find us on the court and made the game easier for everyone.”
Randrea Wright, a rival player, commented, “Jade was the toughest opponent I faced in high school. Her ability to score from anywhere on the court was amazing.”
The Central Ark. Arrival and Freshman Year
Jade Upshaw’s journey to Central Arkansas marked the beginning of an exciting chapter in her basketball career. Her arrival brought immediate impact to the Sugar Bears, setting the stage for a remarkable freshman season.
Recruitment Process and Decision
Jade Upshaw’s path to Central Arkansas was not direct. She initially played for Arkansas State, where she had an impressive freshman campaign. Upshaw appeared in 26 games for Arkansas State, starting six, and averaged over 8 points per game. Her performance caught the eye of Central Arkansas coaches.
The decision to transfer to UCA came in April 2023. Upshaw announced her move on social media, expressing excitement about joining the Sugar Bears. The transfer allowed her to stay in-state and join a program on the rise in the ASUN conference.
Immediate Impact on the Team
Upon joining Central Arkansas, Upshaw quickly became a key player for the Sugar Bears. Her shooting ability and court vision made her a perfect fit for the team’s style of play.
Upshaw’s presence gave the Sugar Bears a boost in their backcourt rotation. Coaches praised Upshaw’s work ethic and basketball IQ. Her ability to create shots for herself and teammates added a new dimension to the Central Arkansas offense.
Upshaw’s impact was felt not just in games, but in practice as well, where she pushed her teammates to improve.
Freshman Season Statistics
In her first season with Central Arkansas, Upshaw put up impressive numbers. She started all 33 games, playing a team-high 29.2 minutes per game. Upshaw led the team in scoring with 12.2 points per game.
Her three-point shooting was a standout aspect of her game. In one notable performance, Upshaw shot 7-for-11 from three-point range, tying for the fourth-most threes made in a game by a Sugar Bear.
Find the best accommodations
Check availability at 5* hotels, guest houses and apartments rated "superb" or "exceptional" by visitors just like you.
NO RESERVATION FEES
CHECK AVAILABILITY FOR YOUR DATES HERE
Upshaw’s consistent play earned her recognition. She was named a Second Team All-ASUN guard, a significant achievement for a freshman.
Significant Games and Team Performance
Upshaw had several standout performances during her freshman year. One of the most notable came in January 2025, when she scored a career-high 31 points in a win against the Bisons. This game showcased Upshaw’s scoring ability and her importance to the team’s success.
The Sugar Bears’ performance improved with Upshaw in the lineup. The team went 8-6 overall and 2-1 in ASUN play early in the season. They were particularly strong at home, going 6-0 in the Farris Center.
Upshaw’s contributions helped Central Arkansas set a program record for three-pointers made against a Division I opponent with 16. Her consistent play was a key factor in the team’s competitiveness in the ASUN conference.
Sophomore Season: Continued Success and Evolution
Jade Upshaw’s sophomore season at Central Arkansas showed significant growth in her game. She improved her scoring, took on a larger role, and earned recognition for her performances.
Improved Statistics and Skill Development
Upshaw’s stats jumped in her second year. She boosted her points per game and shooting percentages. Her three-point shooting became a strong part of her game.
She worked on her ball-handling skills, which let her create more shots for herself and teammates. Upshaw also got better on defense. She increased her steals per game and became a key defender for the Sugar Bears.
Performance During Important Games
In big games, Upshaw stepped up. She scored a career-high 31 points against Lipscomb in ASUN play. This helped Central Arkansas win 86-75.
She had strong showings in rivalry games too, reaching double-digits in scoring consistently during conference matchups. Her clutch play was key in close games. She made important shots and free throws to seal wins for the Sugar Bears.
Quotes from Current Central Ark. Coach
Central Arkansas coach Tony Kemper praised Upshaw’s growth:
“Jade has taken a big step forward this year. Her scoring ability opens up our offense. But it’s her all-around game that impresses me most. She’s become a leader on and off the court.”
Kemper also noted Upshaw’s work ethic:
“Jade is always in the gym working on her shot. That dedication is paying off in games. She’s setting a great example for our younger players.”
Awards or Accolades
Upshaw’s strong play earned her multiple honors. She was named ASUN Player of the Week twice during her sophomore season.
She made the All-ASUN Second Team, which recognized her as one of the top players in the conference. Upshaw also earned a spot on the ASUN All-Academic Team. This showed her success both on the court and in the classroom.
Playing Style and Skillset Analysis
Jade Upshaw’s game combines scoring prowess with playmaking ability. Her offensive skills and court vision make her a versatile guard for Central Arkansas.
In-Depth Breakdown of Her Playing Style
Upshaw excels as a scoring guard with a knack for creating her own shot. Her quick first step allows her to drive past defenders and finish at the rim. When defenders sag off, she punishes them with her smooth three-point stroke.
Upshaw’s ball-handling skills enable her to run the offense effectively. She uses her dribble to create space and set up teammates for open looks. Her court vision is evident in her ability to thread passes through tight windows.
On defense, Upshaw uses her quickness to pressure ball handlers and jump passing lanes for steals. She’s also an active rebounder for her position, often starting fast breaks after securing defensive boards.
Comparisons to Other Elite Players
Upshaw’s playing style draws comparisons to professional guards known for their scoring and playmaking. Her three-point shooting and ability to create off the dribble are reminiscent of players like Kelsey Plum.
Like Plum, Upshaw can take over games with her scoring. She’s shown the ability to put up big numbers, as evidenced by her 31-point outburst against Lipscomb.
Upshaw’s assist numbers also compare favorably to top college guards. Her seven-assist performance against Lipscomb showcases her ability to create for others while still scoring efficiently.
Discussion on Her Versatility
Upshaw’s versatility is a key asset for Central Arkansas. She can play both guard positions effectively, allowing her coach to use different lineup combinations.
As a scorer, Upshaw can get buckets in multiple ways:
- Catch-and-shoot threes
- Pull-up jumpers off the dribble
- Drives to the basket
Her playmaking skills add another dimension to her game. Upshaw can run pick-and-rolls, find cutters, or kick out to open shooters when defenses collapse on her drives.
Defensively, she can guard multiple positions. This flexibility allows Central Arkansas to switch on screens without creating mismatches.
Video Clips or GIFs Support
Game highlights showcase Upshaw’s diverse skill set. In one clip, she drains a step-back three over a defender. Another shows her threading a no-look pass to a cutting teammate for an easy layup.
A full highlight reel from her 31-point game against Lipscomb would display her complete offensive arsenal. It would likely feature: – Deep three-pointers – Crafty finishes around the rim – Assists to open teammates
Defensive highlights might include Upshaw jumping a passing lane for a steal and fast-break layup. Or a clip of her boxing out a larger player to secure a crucial rebound.
NIL Deals and Brand Building
Jade Upshaw has made significant strides in leveraging her name, image, and likeness (NIL) to build her personal brand. Her efforts span various platforms and partnerships, positioning her for potential future opportunities in professional basketball.
Significant NIL Deals
Upshaw has secured several notable NIL deals during her time at Central Arkansas. She partnered with Influxer Merch to create a line of custom apparel and personalized gear. This collaboration allows fans to purchase official Jade Upshaw merchandise, supporting her while showing school spirit.
The University of Central Arkansas recently launched the Bear Nation Exchange program. This initiative aims to help student-athletes like Upshaw pursue NIL business opportunities. Through this program, Upshaw may gain access to more local and regional partnerships.
Upshaw’s on-court success, including her career-high 31-point performance against Lipscomb, has likely increased her marketability. Such standout games often attract attention from potential sponsors and brands looking to align with rising stars in college basketball.
Use of Social Media
Social media plays a crucial role in Upshaw’s brand building efforts. She maintains active profiles on popular platforms to engage with fans and showcase her personality off the court.
Upshaw shares behind-the-scenes content from practices and games. This gives followers a glimpse into her life as a student-athlete. She also uses her platforms to highlight team achievements and promote upcoming games.
By consistently posting content, Upshaw increases her visibility to potential sponsors. She may share sponsored posts or partner announcements as part of her NIL deals. This strategy helps her build a strong online presence and attract more endorsement opportunities.
Potential Endorsement Deals in the WNBA
Upshaw’s success in college basketball and NIL deals could pave the way for future endorsements in the WNBA. Her scoring ability and growing personal brand make her an attractive prospect for professional teams and sponsors alike.
WNBA rookies often secure deals with athletic wear companies. Upshaw’s experience with merchandise partnerships in college could give her an edge in negotiating similar agreements at the professional level.
Local businesses in the city of her future WNBA team may also seek partnerships. Upshaw’s proven ability to connect with fans through social media and merchandise sales could make her a valuable ambassador for regional brands.
WNBA Outlook and Future Prospects
Jade Upshaw’s impressive college career at Central Arkansas has caught the eye of WNBA scouts. Her scoring ability and leadership skills make her an intriguing prospect for the next level.
Potential as a Future WNBA Star
Upshaw’s offensive explosion against Lipscomb showcased her potential to be a scoring threat in the WNBA. Her career-high 31 points demonstrated her ability to take over games when needed.
Upshaw’s versatility as a guard who can both score and facilitate makes her valuable. Her consistent improvement each season suggests she hasn’t reached her ceiling yet.
Her leadership and work ethic are assets that could help her succeed at the pro level. WNBA teams value players who can contribute both on and off the court.
Realistic Draft Projections
Based on her college performance, Upshaw projects as a mid-to-late second round pick in the WNBA draft. Her strong senior season has boosted her draft stock.
Factors that could impact her draft position: – Performance in pre-draft workouts – Team needs in the draft – Competition from other guards in her draft class
Upshaw’s ability to score efficiently and lead an offense could make her an attractive option for teams looking for backcourt depth.
Potential Teams and Impact
Teams that might consider drafting Upshaw include:
- Atlanta Dream – Need guard depth
- Chicago Sky – Looking for scoring off the bench
- Indiana Fever – Seeking young talent to develop
Upshaw’s immediate impact in the WNBA would likely be as a role player off the bench. Her scoring ability could provide a spark in limited minutes.
With development, she has the potential to grow into a solid rotation player. Her work ethic and coachability will be key to her long-term success in the league.
Call to Action
Jade Upshaw’s impressive performances for Central Arkansas have captured the attention of basketball fans. Her skills on the court inspire admiration and support from the community.
Encourage Reader Engagement
Fans can show their support for Jade Upshaw in many ways. Attend home games at the Farris Center in Conway to cheer her on in person. The energy of a packed arena can boost the team’s morale.
Can’t make it to games? Watch live streams or follow play-by-play updates on social media.
Share your favorite Upshaw moments online using the hashtag #UpshawUCA. This helps spread awareness of her talents. Leave encouraging comments on the UCA Women’s Basketball social media posts.
Join fan clubs or student groups that support the team. These offer chances to meet other fans and possibly interact with players.
Promote Following Jade Upshaw
Stay up-to-date on Jade Upshaw’s career by following her social media accounts. Look for her official profiles on platforms like Instagram and Twitter. These often provide behind-the-scenes glimpses into her training and daily life.
Sign up for UCA Athletics newsletters to get the latest news about Upshaw and the Sugar Bears. Many schools offer text alerts for game results and player milestones.
Consider purchasing Upshaw’s jersey or other UCA gear. This shows visible support and helps fund the athletic program. Wear your gear to games or around campus to spark conversations about her achievements.
Links to Related Articles
Expand your knowledge of Jade Upshaw and UCA basketball with these helpful resources:
- Read about Upshaw’s recent 31-point performance against Lipscomb
- Check the ASUN conference standings to see how UCA compares to rivals like North Florida and Jacksonville
- Learn about upcoming games against conference foes like Bellarmine and Eastern Kentucky
Follow local sports journalists who cover UCA and ASUN basketball. They often provide in-depth analysis and player interviews.
Get the latest sent right to your inbox
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews