By Kelli Sharpe
(JACKSON, Miss.) –Jackson State University welcomed ESPN’s SportsCenter on Campus for a live broadcast from the Lee E. Williams Athletic and Assembly Center, on Monday, February 16, placing the university’s rich culture, athletics and history on a national stage. Over 300 JSU supporters filled the arena, proudly wearing the school’s colors with pep-rally signs and pompoms in tow. The broadcast had special significance, coinciding with Black History Month and spotlighting the vibrant legacy of African American culture ahead of the JSU men’s basketball matchup against Bethune-Cookman University.
“We are proud to showcase Jackson State University and highlight our contributions to culture, history and sports on such a prestigious platform,” said JSU Interim President Denise Jones Gregory, Ph.D. “This broadcast celebrated our athletic achievements while honoring our legacy and commitment to excellence.”
Prior to the live broadcast, a pep rally kicked off activities with Vice President and Director of Athletics Ashley Robinson, along with President Gregory and student leaders, greeting the crowd. Performances by the world-renowned Sonic Boom of the South, Prancing J-Settes, JSU cheerleaders and the Baby Tigers energized students, alumni, administrators, faculty and staff.
“It is always great to have Jackson State featured on a national stage,” said VP Robinson. “Anytime you can get ESPN on campus and show off our product, it only helps grow the brand.”
A compelling segment featured JSU alumnus David Dennis Sr., a veteran of Mississippi’s civil rights movement. He appeared alongside his son, co-host David Dennis Jr., and ESPN host Kimberley Martin. During the segment, Dennis Jr. reflected on his father’s absence from the 1964 trip that led to the murders of civil rights workers James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner.
“It was bronchitis that kept my father from being with Goodman, Chaney, and Schwerner,” Dennis shared. The three men were killed by the Ku Klux Klan, a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the fight for equality.
The program also included a free throw contest between Coach Mo Williams, a 13-year NBA veteran and 2016 champion, and co-host David Dennis, Jr., bringing moments of laughter to the broadcast. Former Cleveland Cavaliers teammate Iman Shumpert surprised Coach Williams when he joined the show to reminisce about their 2016 NBA championship and the journey that led Williams to .
The highly anticipated SWAC rematch between JSU and Bethune-Cookman aired on ESPNU with the Tigers defeating the Wildcats 91-86.