DENVER – The University of Denver men's basketball program has signed former Edward Waters guard Jaelen Nelson for the 2026-27 season, head coach Tim Bergstraser announced on Wednesday.
Nelson is joining the Pioneers after two seasons at NCAA D-II Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Florida. In his two years in his home state, Nelson played in 55 games and made 40 starts. In his most recent season, Nelson averaged 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists per appearance. Nelson finished in double figures 22 times, including a career-high 26 points at Central State on January 31 of this year.
This marks Bergstraser's 10th offseason signing, joining Oskar Wickström Stümer (April 17), Trey Cady (April 27), Baba Mbengue (May 7), CJ Hyland (May 8), Harry Bates (May 9), Kam Martin (May 9), Jordan Rogers (May 11), Charlie Dimmock (May 11) and Spencer Mahoney (May 12)
Jaelen Nelson – 6-4 – 185 – Guard – West Palm Beach, Florida – Junior – Dwyer H.S. – Edward Waters
2025-26 (SOPHOMORE AT EDWARD WATERS):
Played and started in 31 games, averaging 32.0 minutes per contest…Averaged 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game…Posted double figures in 18 games, including 26 points at Central State on January 31.
2024-25 (FRESHMAN AT EDWARD WATERS):
Played in 24 games and made nine starts in his freshman season...Averaged 4.7 points and 2.3 rebounds per appearance…Finished in double figures four times, in four-straight games, from February 1-15.
BEFORE EDWARD WATERS:
Won the 6A Florida State High School Championship in the 2023-24 season.
PERSONAL:
Chose the University of Denver for the beautiful scenery, the amazing basketball and the opportunity to receive an excellent education…Hopes to become a successful business owner…Enjoys video games and serving the homeless.
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