UALR Senior Trojan basketball player Rashad Jones-Jennings, once rejected as a Tennessee State walk-on by former coach Nolan Richardson III, led the nation in collegiate rebounds last week, earning him and the UALR Trojans national recognition on the CBS Sports website.

Just as impressive are his stats in the classroom. Jones-Jennings challenged himself academically last fall by taking an 18-credit hour class load, passing with flying colors to assure that he would graduate in May at the end of his eligibility expires.

“That’s the kind of kid Rashad is,” said Head Trojan Basketball Coach Steve Shields. “He puts his mind to something, and he does it.”

The 6-8 forward began his quest to Division I basketball by watching the Tennessee State team practice. “I wanted to walk on, but the coaches told me I’d be better off playing intramurals,” Jones-Jennings said. Instead, he watched varsity practices, learning everything he could and practicing at the YMCA. Before too long, he attracted the attention of Chattanooga State Community College, leading the team to a 21-6 record in his second year and then accepted a scholarship from UALR. He averaged 11.3 rebounds per game last season to rank third nationally. This year, he is averaging 12.1 rebounds per game ranking first nationally.

“He’s a grinder, and he’s a fighter. He’s always working, always anticipating,” Shields said.