Jackson State

The Jackson State Tigers and Lady Tigers represent competitive excellence and rich heritage at Jackson State University in Mississippi. Competing in NCAA Division I as Southwestern Athletic Conference members, the Tigers have forged a legacy including eight national championships and a tradition of developing elite professional and Olympic-caliber athletes. Under the leadership of NFL Hall of Famer and Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders, the program elevated HBCU football to national prominence, producing future NFL greats like Walter Payton alongside numerous Hall of Famers. The track and field squads have captured seven NAIA national championships, nurturing Olympians and international competitors attaining Olympic trials, World Championships, and global competitions. Accompanied by the famous "Sonic Boom of the South" marching band and Prancing J-Settes, Jackson State continues building championship traditions at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium and Williams Assembly Center. The Tigers have appeared nationally on NFL halftime stages while cultivating future Olympians and pros across all sports. They embody the Tiger spirit in navy blue, white, and light blue, fostering champions who excel athletically while honoring their proud HBCU heritage and commitment to "Thee I Love."