A Narrow Defeat in the Inaugural Upshot League Final
The inaugural Upshot League championship game unfolded at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena on August 29, where the Jacksonville Waves appeared to have the upper hand early on.
Jacksonville surged ahead to a 59‑49 advantage with 9:48 left in the fourth quarter, but the momentum shifted as Charlotte began a decisive run.
LeLe Grissett sparked the comeback with a basket at the 6:16 mark, igniting a 7‑0 spurt that cut the gap.
KK Deans then knocked down a three‑pointer with 3:54 remaining, giving the Crown a four‑point edge that they would not relinquish.
Deja Kelly was the catalyst for Charlotte’s surge, scoring 32 points in the final quarter, including 29 points, six rebounds and three assists, while converting crucial free throws.
Jacksonville’s own stars — Rennia Davis, Jasmine Walker and the duo of Lindsey Pulliam and Sellers — each contributed double‑digit points, but their efforts fell short as the clock wound down.
The final scoreboard read 81‑76 in favor of the Crown, a result sealed by Kelly’s two free throws and missed shots from Walker and Ariel Hearn in the closing seconds.
Charlotte’s team shooting percentage from the foul line reached 85 percent, underscoring a disciplined finish that left the Waves scrambling.
The game took place at VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, a venue that witnessed the dramatic reversal of fortunes.
The Upshot League announced plans to add franchises in Baltimore and Nashville for its second season in 2027, a move that could reshape the competitive landscape.
What’s Next for the Upshot League?
With the inaugural season concluded, organizers are already mapping out a growth strategy that could see new markets join the circuit, potentially reshaping the league’s dynamics in the coming years.