The buzz surrounding the first Upshot League championship is more than just local curiosity; it marks a watershed moment for women’s professional basketball in the Southeast. Jacksonville’s Waves, who finished the regular season atop the four‑team league with a 25‑9 record, are set to meet the Charlotte Crown in a single, winner‑take‑all contest at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena.
A Season of Dominance
The Waves posted a 25‑9 slate, outpacing the Crown’s 23‑11 finish and securing a 6‑4 edge in their season series. Their consistency has been anchored by a balanced roster that blends veteran poise with emerging talent, a combination that has kept them perched at the top of the standings for much of the campaign.
Charlotte, meanwhile, entered the final as the league’s runner‑up, having battled through a demanding schedule that saw them finish second but still showcase a potent offense. Both teams have navigated a compressed schedule, but the Crown’s resilience has kept them within striking distance heading into the championship night.
Star Power on Display
At the heart of the matchup are two of the league’s most prolific backcourt players. Deja Kelly, the Charlotte point guard, tops the league in scoring with an average of 17.8 points per game while also dishing out 4.1 assists. Across the court, Ariel Hearn of the Waves counters with 15.1 points and 3.0 assists per contest, providing a reliable scoring punch that has been crucial in tight games.
Adding a narrative layer is Rennia Davis, a former Ribault High School standout who now seeks her first Upshot League trophy. Davis arrives with a storied high‑school pedigree, having captured Florida High School Athletic Association titles in 2014, 2016 and 2017, and she hopes to translate that championship pedigree into a professional triumph.
Coaching Contrasts
The strategic chess match will be overseen by head coaches Jessica Bogia of the Waves and Trisha Stafford‑Odom of the Crown. Bogia’s tenure has been defined by a focus on defensive cohesion, while Stafford‑Odom has emphasized an up‑tempo style that leverages her team’s depth. Their contrasting philosophies are expected to shape the tactical flow of the final.
The arena itself, VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, will serve as the stage for what many anticipate will be a historic evening. The venue, located in Jacksonville, Florida, has previously hosted major collegiate and professional events, and its capacity to showcase the skill and intensity of the competing teams adds a layer of gravitas to the proceedings.
Beyond the win‑loss column, the championship carries broader significance for the region. A victory for the Waves would crown Northeast Florida’s first professional women’s basketball champion, a milestone that could inspire future generations of players and broaden interest in the sport across the state.