CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Queens University of Charlotte head women's basketball coach Jen Brown has announced the addition of three newcomers who will join the Royals for the 2026–27 season. The class features size, scoring ability and international experience, strengthening the program across multiple positions as Queens continues its rise in the ASUN Conference.

The signing class includes international forward Shadeh Preston, North Carolina forward Nykira Arrington, and Virginia guard Ja'La Niblett.

Brown expressed excitement about the group, noting the unique strengths each player brings to the roster.

"We're thrilled to add Shadeah Preston to our roster. Her international playing experience has given her great poise and maturity on the court," said Brown. Shadeah is extremely skilled and versatile, a true three-level scorer who can impact the game in multiple ways. She's a dynamic addition who will elevate our team's offensive versatility next season."

Preston, a 6-foot-1 forward from Denstorf, Germany, brings five years of playing experience in the 2. Bundesliga along with a 2023 European Championship title and a European Championship runner-up finish. She most recently competed for Lion Pride Eintracht Braunschweig, helping the club to a seventh-place Bundesliga finish. Her length, scoring ability and competitiveness make her a high-upside addition to the Queens frontcourt.

Brown also highlighted the impact of local signee Nykira Arrington.

"We're excited to welcome local standout Nykira Arrington to our program. Nykira is a true stat sheet stuffer who impacts the game in so many ways. I love her length and versatility—she can defend multiple positions, rebound and create opportunities offensively. Her energy and all-around game will make an immediate impact on both ends of the floor."

Arrington, a 6-foot forward from South Mecklenburg High School, earned All-State, All-Conference and Third Team All-District honors and recorded multiple double-doubles and two triple-doubles throughout her high school career. Arrington's mobility, size and defensive potential makes her an immediate fit for the Queens system.

Rounding out the class is one of the region's most accomplished guards, Ja'La Niblett.

"We're thrilled to have Ja'La Nibblett joining our program. She's a dynamic scoring point guard with great range and confidence from beyond the arc. Her ability to create shots and stretch the floor will be a huge asset for us next season. Ja'La's competitiveness and scoring instinct make her a perfect fit for our style of play."

Niblett, a 5-foot-6 guard from Martinsville, Virginia, arrives with 1,492 career points and 264 three-pointers through her junior season. She is a two-time VISAA State Player of the Year, a two-time state champion and a three-time First Team All-State and All-Conference honoree. She also averaged 13.0 points and 4.1 assists per game with Phoenix VA, showcasing her ability to score and facilitate at a high level.

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