#USA #Jacksonville #women's basketball #UPSHOT League #Donna Orender

UPSHOT League Introduces Its Premier Players Ahead of Inaugural Season

On April 21, 2026, the UPSHOT League officially revealed its first cohort of premier players, marking an important milestone for this newly established professional women's basketball league. The league aims to enhance elite competition and promote stronger community ties through sports. This elite group features a mix of talent from the WNBA, top collegiate programs, and impressive international players, setting a high standard as the league prepares for its debut.

In a statement by Donna Orender, Co-Founder and Commissioner of the UPSHOT League, she emphasized the significance of this moment: "This is a foundational moment for the UPSHOT League. These players reflect exactly who we are—elite, competitive, and globally relevant from day one. They are seizing expanded opportunities, and we celebrate creating a new stage for women's professional basketball."

The selected players include multiple All-Americans, conference players of the year, and those who have excelled in various global competitions. The diverse backgrounds of these athletes illustrate the league's commitment to showcasing top-tier talent. Below are key highlights of some standout players:

Featured Inaugural Players

Lindsey Pulliam

• - Position: Shooting Guard
• - Height: 5'10"
• - College: Northwestern University
• - WNBA Draft: 2021, 3rd Round, 27th Pick (Atlanta Dream)
• - Honors: 2× First Team All-Big Ten, USA Basketball Silver Medal
• - Professional Experience: Played in Spain, Turkey, and Slovakia.

Jasmine Walker

• - Position: Power Forward
• - Height: 6'3"
• - Colleges: Florida State, Alabama
• - WNBA Draft: 2021, 1st Round, 7th Pick (Los Angeles Sparks)
• - Honors: 2× All-SEC Selection, led Alabama to NCAA Tournament for the first time in 22 years
• - Professional Experience: France, Athletes Unlimited.

Amiya Joyner

• - Position: Forward
• - Height: 6'2"
• - Colleges: LSU, East Carolina University
• - Highlights: 2026 College All-Star Game participant, 2025 All-AAC First Team.

Asia (AD) Durr

• - Position: Guard
• - Height: 5'10"
• - College: University of Louisville
• - WNBA Draft: 2019, 2nd Overall Pick
• - Honors: 2× ACC Player of the Year, multiple All-American nominations.

Que Morrison

• - Position: Guard
• - College: University of Georgia
• - Highlights: Recognized as SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year in 2021.

Schaquilla Nunn

• - Position: Center
• - Height: 6'3"
• - College: University of Tennessee
• - Career Highlights: Over 1,000 points and rebounds, and 2026 league MVP in Portugal.

The UPSHOT League aspires to create a platform that not only showcases talent but also uplifts communities through competitive sports. With a foundation built on excellence and expansive opportunities, the league is poised to redefine the landscape of professional women's basketball in the United States.

For more information about the UPSHOT League and its players, visit their official site at upshotleague.com.