Jackie Young Bio
Jacquelyn Young, born on September 16, 1997, is an American professional basketball player recognized for her dynamic play as a shooting guard for the Las Vegas Aces in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). A standout at Princeton Community High School, she made a name for herself at the University of Notre Dame, winning an NCAA championship in 2018. Young’s exceptional skills led her to be drafted first overall in the 2019 WNBA draft. She has since achieved remarkable success, including winning multiple WNBA championships and medals in international competitions. Her legacy continues to grow as she triumphs on both professional and Olympic stages.
Early Life and Background
Jacquelyn Young was born in Princeton, Indiana, where she developed her passion for basketball at a young age. Growing up in a supportive family, she was influenced by her father, David Wayne Edwards Sr., who was a talented high school basketball player and track athlete. Young attended Princeton Community High School, where she excelled in basketball, setting numerous records and leading her team to a state championship. During her high school career, she became the leading scorer in Indiana high school history, amassing 3,268 points and averaging 30.8 points per game. Her achievements earned her the prestigious title of Indiana Miss Basketball in 2016. After high school, Young continued her education and basketball career at the University of Notre Dame, where she played for the Fighting Irish from 2016 to 2019.
Path to Basketball
At Notre Dame, Young quickly made a name for herself, contributing significantly to the team’s success. She was part of the squad that reached two NCAA finals and won the championship in 2018. Her performance earned her several accolades, including being named to the ACC All-Freshman Team in 2017 and the second-team All-ACC in 2019. After three successful seasons, she opted to enter the 2019 WNBA draft, where she was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Aces. Young’s transition to the professional level was marked by her versatility, as she played as a point guard in her rookie season, showcasing her adaptability and skill set.
Jackie Young Career
Early Career (2019–2021)
Young made her WNBA debut in 2019, where she quickly established herself as a promising player. In her rookie season, she averaged 6.6 points and 3.3 rebounds per game, earning a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team. The following season, she continued to improve, averaging 10.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. Young’s performance in the 2021 season positioned her as a candidate for the Most Improved Player award, highlighting her growth as a player.
Breakthrough (2022–Present)
The 2022 season marked a significant turning point in Young’s career. She was named the WNBA Most Improved Player, reflecting her outstanding performance throughout the season. Additionally, she was selected as a starter for the WNBA All-Star Game, further solidifying her status as one of the league’s top players. Young’s contributions helped the Las Vegas Aces secure the WNBA championship in 2022, and she continued to excel in subsequent seasons, winning additional championships in 2023 and 2025.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout her career, Young has achieved numerous milestones, including being a four-time WNBA All-Star and a two-time All-WNBA Second Team selection. She has also made her mark on the international stage, winning a gold medal in Women’s 3×3 basketball at the 2020 Summer Olympics and another gold medal in 5×5 basketball at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Jackie Young Award Nominations
Over her career, Jacquelyn Young has received several nominations, reflecting her impact on the game and her recognition among peers and analysts alike.
Jackie Young Awards Won
Jacquelyn Young has won multiple awards, including three WNBA championships and the WNBA Most Improved Player award in 2022. Her accolades also include being named to the WNBA All-Rookie Team and earning various honors during her collegiate career.
Jackie Young Family
Jacquelyn Young is the daughter of Linda Young and David Wayne Edwards Sr. She has a brother, David Wayne Edwards Jr., who played college football at the University of Nebraska.
Personal Life
Young maintains a private personal life, focusing primarily on her basketball career and achievements. She continues to inspire young athletes with her dedication and success on the court.
