State sports briefs | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

State sports briefs covers multiple Arkansas-area updates, beginning with the Southwestern Athletic Conference preseason selections for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Announced Wednesday, the conference named running back Jaylen Jennings, linebacker Danarius Hilliard, and wide receiver D’Avery Robinson to UAPB’s first-team group, with Nick Carter and Marquis Cagle on the second team. Quarterback Andrew Body of Alabama State was selected preseason offensive player of the year after producing nearly 2,300 yards and 24 touchdowns last season, while Jackson State defensive back Kam Sallis earned defensive player of the year after intercepting two passes in 2025. UAPB’s five selections exceeded its previous total from last fall. The SWAC media day is scheduled for July 15 in Birmingham, Alabama.