LeLe Grissett, a former standout for the University of South Carolina women’s basketball team, has been named to the inaugural roster of the Charlotte Crown, one of four franchises set to compete in the newly formed Upshot basketball League.
A New Chapter for Women’s Pro Basketball
The Upshot league, backed by Hall of Fame players Tamika Catching, Cheryl Miller and Ann Meyers Drysdale, will begin play on May 15, featuring a 34‑game schedule that culminates in August. All matches will be broadcast live on the league’s YouTube channel, giving fans unprecedented access to the action.
Grissett, who helped the Gamecocks capture the 2022 national championship, spent five seasons (2018‑2022) under coach Dawn Staley, averaging 4.8 points and 3.6 rebounds in 14.6 minutes per game. She finished her collegiate career as the program’s all‑time leader in games played and SEC contests, a testament to her durability and impact off the bench.
Having tasted professional competition abroad, Grissett brings a global perspective to the Crown and is expected to provide a sparkplug presence in the paint. Her experience overseas, combined with her collegiate pedigree, positions her as a key contributor as the team opens its season against Jacksonville at Bojangles Coliseum.
The league’s expansion plans include future franchises in Baltimore and Nashville slated for 2027, signaling a growing appetite for women’s professional basketball across the United States. With streaming on YouTube and a roster of legendary investors, the Upshot League aims to redefine the landscape for female athletes seeking a professional platform.