By Naya Samuel The 29-year-old is affectionately called the “Chief Connection Officer” by her teammates as she strives to keep perspective throughout her career. Sports Illustrated and Empower Onyx are putting the spotlight on the diverse journeys of Black women across sports—from the veteran athletes, to up-and-coming stars, coaches, executives and more—in the series, Elle-evate: 100 Influential Black Women in Sports. Born and raised in Raleigh, 29-year-old Jaz Gray would have never imagined herself in Spain or Dubai—let alone off the strength of sports. A lifetime fitness fanatic, she was wo…