Jada Walton is entering her second season as the assistant women's basketball coach and fourth year coaching at the collegiate level ahead of the 2026-27 season, bringing with her a strong commitment to player development and a growing track record of success.
During her first season at Columbus State, Walton helped guide the Lady Cougars to a 25-5 overall record and an 18-2 Peach Belt Conference record, capturing the Peach Belt Conference Regular Season Championship. The Lady Cougars advanced to the Peach Belt Conference Tournament semifinals and earned a berth in the NCAA Division II Southeast Regional.
Prior to joining Columbus State, Walton served as an assistant coach at Baton Rouge Community College, where she played a key role in the program's recent success. While Walton was there, the team improved from a five-win season the previous year to a 15-7 record. Walton was instrumental in player development across the roster, with a particular focus on guard play. Walton’s efforts led to multiple players earning All-Region honors, including one First Team selection, three Second Team selections and one All-Defensive Team honoree. In addition to on-court responsibilities, Walton led the program’s recruiting efforts and successfully assembled a strong incoming class of freshmen and transfers.
Prior to time at BRCC, Walton served as an assistant coach at Otero College, where she was a key contributor to the Lady Rattlers’ defensive schemes and overall player growth. Walton’s work helped the team secure a second-place finish in the South Subdivision of Region IX. While at Otero, Walton coached the Region IX Defensive Player of the Year, two All-Region selections and two Region IX All-Tournament Team members. Five of the sophomores Walton coached went on to continue their academic and athletic careers at four-year institutions, including Delaware State, University of Alaska Anchorage, Delta State, University of Colorado Colorado Springs and Northern New Mexico College.
Walton’s coaching career builds on a highly respected academic and athletic background. Walton earned a master’s degree in Sport Management from Troy University, where she also played for the women’s basketball team. From 2021 to 2023, Walton was a key contributor to the team’s success, helping Troy win the 2022 Sun Belt Conference regular-season championship. As team captain during the 2022-23 season, Walton helped lead the team to a postseason WNIT appearance.
Before Troy, Walton attended Texas Tech University (2019-21), where Walton earned a bachelor’s degree and was a member of the women’s basketball program. Although sidelined by NCAA transfer rules and a season-ending injury, Walton remained committed to the team and continued personal development.
Walton began her collegiate playing career at Texas A&M University (2017-19), where she helped the Aggies reach back-to-back NCAA Sweet 16 appearances. Known for defensive tenacity and academic discipline, Walton earned team honors for both defense and academics. In the 2018-19 season, Walton played in 32 games with two starts and was known as the team’s defensive stopper. She led or co-led the bench in points, rebounds, blocks and steals during the Aggies’ 2019 NCAA Tournament run.
Walton's journey reflects a dedication to excellence in sports, academics and mentorship, making her a valuable asset to the Lady Cougar community and an inspiring figure for aspiring athletes.
The Lithonia, Ga. native graduated from Southwest DeKalb High School.
