Olivet Nazarene University commends southwest Indiana’s Jayden Flagg, a standout player from New Prairie High School, for her dedication and resilience on the basketball court. In a heartfelt tribute, Jayden is playing this season in memory of her late brother, and Olivet alumnus Braydon.
Braydon, a former men’s Tiger basketball player, passed away tragically in an automobile accident in 2023, leaving the Olivet campus in shock. Braydon left an indelible mark with his athleticism and infectious personality.
In a recent feature in the South Bend Tribune, Jayden said, “He’s been a big inspiration; he’s always on my mind,” Jayden said. “I know he’s always with me, and I have no doubt in my mind that he’s cheering for me up there. He’s always on my mind, always there. I’ll never forget him.”
The university community stands behind Jayden as she carries her brother’s legacy forward, committing to join the ONU Tigers’ women’s basketball program this fall.
“(Olivet’s) got a unique culture to it: high values, high character,” Jayden’s father, Jason told the South Bend Tribune. “Even Braydon said sometimes, ‘I’m not sure if there’s anyone not nice here.’”
We honor Jayden’s commitment to both her team and her family.
Read the full feature from the South Bend Tribune here.
Jayden Flagg, center, pictured with ONU basketball players Kendal Rolison, left, and Caleb Swearingen, right. Photo by Flagg Family.
