Eastern Illinois men's basketball coach Marty Simmons announced the signing of Jayden Wright as the Panthers added the legacy player to the EIU roster for next season during the NCAA's November signing period.
 
Wright (5'11, Guard) is the son of former EIU guard Jason Wright (2001-05) and grandson of EIU Hall of Fame football wide receiver Jerry Wright (1981-84). 
 
Wright plays at Lisle Benet Academy having earned three varsity letters heading into his season year.  He has scored more than 800 career points with 143 3-pointers connecting at a 43-percent clip.  In addition, Wright has contributed more than 200 assists, 200 rebounds and 70 steals in his prep career.  Over the last two years he has helped lead the program to a 60-12 record highlighted by winning the school's first IHSA Class 4A State Championship.  He has been named a IBCA Special Mention All-State, Chicago Sun Times first team All-Area and two-time ESCC first team All-Conference selection.
 
"We're extremely excited to welcome Jayden to Panther basketball and continue his families long connection with Eastern Illinois athletics," said Simmons.  "He's a hard-nosed, high-character point guard who know how to impact winning on both ends of the floor.  His playmaking, shooting ability and leadership are going to make an immediate impact on the court and within our team culture.  Jayden is a proven winner, and we can't wait to get him to campus to be able to work with him."
 
Beyond the numbers, Wright brings an edge, maturity, and competitiveness that elevate everyone around him. His ability to control tempo, shoot efficiently from deep, and defend multiple positions makes him a valuable two-way contributor from day one. Coaches consistently praise his work ethic and coachability, and his experience leading a championship-caliber program has prepared him for the intensity of Division I basketball. With his blend of skill, toughness, and winning DNA, Wright is poised to make a seamless transition to the collegiate level and become a cornerstone piece for the Panthers' future.