Jordan Scott, a sophomore guard for the University of Evansville Purple Aces, died early on September 6, 2023 after her vehicle collided with a utility pole on State Road 62 near Evansville, Indiana. The crash, which occurred around 12:42 a.m. EST on a curvy stretch of road, proved fatal at the scene, leaving the car heavily damaged.
A Community in Mourning
Scott transferred to Evansville this season to play alongside her sister, Jayden Scott, a fellow student‑athlete, and became part of coach Ben Wierzba’s inaugural recruiting class. At Castle High School she earned two‑time All‑SIAC first‑team honors and two‑time All‑State honorable mention, and in her final three years she consistently posted double‑digit scoring, cementing her reputation as a top prospect.
Coach Wierzba described her as a meaningful member of the basketball family, noting how her presence lifted team spirit and dynamics. The University of Evansville officially confirmed her death, citing the crash into a utility pole and the extensive vehicle damage.
The loss has reverberated through the Purple Aces program and the broader Evansville community. Teammates, alumni, and local fans have expressed profound sorrow, remembering Scott not only for her athletic achievements but also for her vibrant personality and dedication to the sport.
Jayden Scott, who remains on the roster, expressed her grief, saying the family will carry forward Jordan’s love for the game. The tragedy underscores the fragility of life and leaves a lasting void in the university’s athletic landscape.