Hall of Fame
Jaleel Nelson came to Chowan University in 2006 after having played at nearby Lakeland High School in Suffolk, Virginia. He was recruited by then-coach Jim Tribbett and he went on to shine for four seasons
for the Hawks on the hardcourt.
In a sports program that has many storied players, Jaleel ranks as one of the best all-around players to have worn the CU Blue and White. He made a name for himself as a freshman and with each season he progressed into the most electric player in the gym in any game. Jaleel posted 1,369 career points, ranking him 3rd in program history. He averaged 13.2 points an outing over his four-year career. The versatile guard snatched 477 rebounds, dished out 235 career assists, and grabbed 154 career steals.
During his sophomore season, Jaleel helped lead the Hawks to the NCCAA National Tournament on his way to collecting one of his two NCCAA All-American honors along with being named NCCAA South Region Player of the Year. Jaleel flourished during his senior season averaging a program-best 19.0 points per game and 503 total points leading him to All-CIAA and NCCAA All-South Region honors.
Fellow Hall of Famer, teammate, and friend Trayvon Lathan said this about Jaleel, “Jaleel had the ability to take constructive criticism and use it to elevate his game to the next level. He was a very athletic player and could make his teammates better on both ends of the floor.” Trayvon, the program’s all-time leading scorer, continued, “Jaleel is just a humble guy. He always worked hard, and always put his family first.”
Jaleel was well-respected by his opponents, his teammates, his coaches, and the overall Chowan community. His smile was contagious and his work ethic was second to none. Jaleel’s humbleness, along with his electric play-making ability, made him a campus favorite. After graduating from Chowan University, Jaleel played professionally overseas in China, Kosovo, Uruguay, Ecuador, and Chile.
Jaleel currently works for Kings Fork High School in his hometown of Suffolk. He is an economics teacher and has been working with the City of Suffolk School System since 2016. Jaleel enjoys working with young men and women in the education system, playing basketball locally and regionally, and being with his family and friends.
Jaleel is married to Brittany Johnson Nelson. Together they have two beautiful children, Kaleb and Naomi. They reside in Chesapeake, Virginia.
