Jada Eads is trading the Pirates' ship for Rocky Top, and she's bringing a fierce leadership mentality with her. The 5-foot-7 guard, who spent the last two seasons at Seton Hall, has officially signed with the Tennessee Lady Vols as their eighth transfer pickup for the 2025-26 season.

Eads isn't just another name on the roster—she's a proven playmaker. Over 45 games with the Pirates, including 40 starts, she averaged 12.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and three assists per game while logging nearly 30 minutes on the court. Those numbers earned her All-Big East honors as a freshman, a testament to her ability to step up in a competitive conference.

But her journey hasn't been without hurdles. On January 17, Eads suffered a season-ending ACL injury during a game at DePaul. That setback, however, hasn't dimmed her fire. Lady Vols head coach Kim Caldwell, now in her third year, is confident Eads will bounce back stronger.

"Jada Eads is a dynamic playmaker who is ready to lead us on the offensive and defensive ends," Caldwell said. "Her defensive presence will be challenging for our opponents. She is hungry to get back on the court and will work relentlessly to get there."

Before her collegiate career, Eads was a standout at Lake Highland Preparatory School in Orlando, Florida. She earned 2024 Orlando Sentinel Player of the Year honors and was a McDonald's All-America nominee—credentials that hint at the star power she's bringing to Knoxville.

For Lady Vols fans, Eads represents more than just a transfer addition. She's a resilient leader ready to help shape the team's identity on both ends of the floor. As she works toward full recovery, expect her to be a key piece in Tennessee's push for SEC contention.