Small point guards always play relentlessly with a point to prove. While they are the shortest on the court, opponents look to intimidate them, believing they aren't capable of competing on the floor. Little do they know, the smallest players seem to always be the toughest and show more tenacity than others. For Jordan “Jelly” Walker, it’s been an uphill journey for the senior guard. The road he has been on is the reason why he plays with so much hunger and determination to be the better than his competition.
The journey of Jelly Walker has been an interesting one. What it shows is his ability to overcome adversity and shine bright. Suffering through a torn ligament in his hand as a freshman, Walker didn’t have the opportunity to showcase his talent during his tenure Seton Hall.
Walker would later transfer to Tulane and slowly emerge as an elite scorer. Sure, he had some great moments while playing for the Green Wave. However, the situation wasn’t enough to place his name as one of the best scorers in the country. That’s where the University of Alabama Birmingham came into play. Head coach Andy Kennedy would give Walker the green light to carry the team offensively. In his first season with the team, he proved to be a microwave scoring the ball.
Since his first season at UAB, Jelly Walker has been an instant offense. He thrives off of being an elite scorer with his ability to create and score off the dribble. A fascinating part about Walker is he has no problem scoring over any defender. Regardless of the height, Walker’s athleticism gives him a good lift on his jump shot, which prevents him from being blocked when he shoots.
During the 2021-22 season, Walker averaged 20.3 points per game alongside five assists on 39% three-point shooting. The game came naturally for him and he was able to be in his comfort zone on the offensive end. Walker would display tremendous performances that included a two 40-point performances in victories against Middle Tennessee.
So far, there has been plenty more where that came from. Walker has approached this season with more assertiveness to put the ball in the basket. With that being said, his scoring numbers have increased. The dynamic backcourt of Walker and Eric Gaines continues to put the Conference USA on notice. Through their first three games, the Blazers have continued their early success and want to continue to establish themselves as a team to beat.
Walker set the tone early in the Blazers’ first matchup against Alabama State, where he dropped 38 points on 57 percent shooting. With a mixture of perimeter shooting and penetration, Walker’s offensive package was on full display. His ability to carry the load allowed UAB to have full control of the contest, which led to a 111-70 victory.
When Walker believes he has a good shot, he takes it. What many can consider an ill-advised attempt, he is capable of knocking down on many occasions. As we see in the clip above, Walker knocks down a deep contested three after the attempted slip screen-and-roll. Before the help defense comes, he launches his shot immediately.
Again, Walker is so dynamic with his scoring that he and impact the game anywhere on the floor. Here we see his ability to split the defense and make his way to the rim for a scoop layup.
Walker’s progression from last season has boosted his confidence in a major way. His personnel and demeanor has shifted to a higher level and he’s continuing to show his leadership as well. Considering this is his fifth season competing at the college level, Walker understands what’s at stake this season for him and his team.
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