How Coogs star guard Jamal Shead’s parents impacted UH’s basketball program

In Memphis, Tennessee, Jamal Shead is experiencing a year of significant milestones.

Earning first-team All America honors in his team’s inaugural season in the Big 12 Conference, where the Coogs secured first place, marks a remarkable achievement. However, the roots of his success trace back to his early days in the program.

Houston head coach Kelvin Sampson reminisces about Shead’s freshman year, emphasizing that Shead wasn’t recruited to play immediately. Despite being a highly touted 4-star recruit from Manor High School, Shead saw limited playing time during the 2020-21 season, with guards Quentin Grimes, Marcus Sasser, and DeJon Jarreau ahead of him, all now in the NBA.

Sampson praises Shead’s perseverance during his freshman season, highlighting his dedication and commitment to the team. Shead’s parents, Elvin and Lysa Shead, echo this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of patience and trust in the process.

Fast forward three years, and Shead has become one of the most accomplished and decorated players in the history of the Coogs’ basketball program.

For the Shead family, seeing Jamal’s success is a source of joy and fulfillment. They express their unwavering support for him and commend the Sampson family for their role in Jamal’s journey.

Coach Sampson acknowledges the invaluable support of the Shead family, emphasizing their commitment to trusting the coaching staff and the process. He reflects on Jamal’s resilience and the invaluable role his parents played during his formative years in the program.