Player Highlight: Jayden James

Jackson State was just picked to place second in the SWAC league’s predicted order of finish. Their key to success? Senior outside hitter Jayden James. 

In August, James was named to the 2025 SWAC Volleyball Preseason First Team, an accomplishment reflective of her ability to absolutely dominate on the court. In her junior season at Jackson State, James led the SWAC with 415 kills and 467 total points. As if that wasn’t impressive enough, she racked up a staggering 290 digs, 38 blocks, 21 assists, and 32 aces. It’s no surprise, then, that the Tigers reached the SWAC Championship match and James earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team. 

With her senior year underway, James hasn’t missed a beat. Through just six matches in the 2025 season, she leads the team with 53 kills, including a 15-kill performance against Southeastern Louisiana. 

Before transferring to Jackson State, James was a standout at Grambling, where she tallied 370 kills and 302 digs in her sophomore season. She also left Grambling with 33 aces, 27 assists, and 17 total blocks under her belt, earning her spot on the All-SWAC First Team and All-Tournament Team. No matter where she is on the court, James has proven match after match that she consistently excels.  

The Tigers are aiming high this year, and James is the player to take them to the top.

Author contributor Faith Ellington