From the Pros to the Sidelines: How Former Athletes Are Shaping the Future of HBCUs

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been pillars of academic excellence and cultural legacy. Now, a powerful shift is happening across their athletic departments—former professional athletes are stepping into coaching roles, and their impact is being felt far beyond the scoreboard.

This is more than a trend—it’s a movement.

From the League to the Legacy

It all starts with the names we grew up watching under bright stadium lights—legends who are now pouring their experience back into Black institutions:

• Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, whose revolutionary run at Jackson State University reignited HBCU football’s relevance nationwide.

• DeSean Jackson, now playing a vital mentorship role at Delaware State University (DSU), equipping student-athletes with NFL insight and inspiration.

• Michael Vick, connecting with Norfolk State University (NSU) to provide leadership and national visibility.

And the list doesn’t stop there.

Former Pros Now Leading HBCU Programs

These elite athletes turned coaches are bringing championship mindsets, elite connections, and a deeper sense of purpose to HBCU sports programs:

🏀 Reggie Theus – Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Athletic Director at Bethune-Cookman University. A former NBA All-Star, Theus is building a foundation of excellence both on and off the court.

🏀 Reggie Theus also recently brought visibility to Fisk University by supporting HBCU athletics through outreach and program development.

🏀 Cynthia Cooper-Dyke – Hall of Famer and WNBA legend, now Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Texas Southern University. Her championship pedigree sets a high standard for female athletes.

🏀 Juan Dixon – Former NBA player and NCAA champion, served as Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Coppin State University, leading with passion and hometown pride.

🏈 Sean Gilbert – Former NFL Pro Bowler and now Head Football Coach at Livingstone College, bringing toughness and structure to the gridiron.

🏀 Laura Harper – Former WNBA player and NCAA champ, serving as Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Coppin State University. She’s building a winning culture while mentoring strong, intelligent women.

🏀 Lindsey Hunter – Former NBA guard and champion, Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Mississippi Valley State University, bringing pro-level standards to his squad.

🏀 George Lynch – Former NBA forward and UNC standout, now Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Clark Atlanta University. His leadership is helping student-athletes excel both athletically and academically.

🏀 Elaine Powell – Former WNBA star, now leading the charge as Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Langston University. She’s creating fierce competitors on the hardwood.

🏈 Tyrone Wheatley – Former NFL running back and Michigan standout, now Head Football Coach at Morgan State University. Wheatley brings grit, leadership, and recruiting vision to the Bears.

🏀 Maurice “Mo” Williams – NBA Champion and now Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Alabama State University. Williams is building a powerhouse through player development and discipline.

Why This Matters

This influx of former pro athletes into HBCU coaching roles is transformative:

• Recruiting Power: High school athletes are more likely to choose HBCUs when coached by names they admire.

• National Attention: Media and sponsors are tuning in, bringing money, recognition, and momentum to Black college programs.

• Career Development: These coaches bring industry insight, guiding student-athletes on paths that extend far beyond the game.

• Cultural Upliftment: These leaders are restoring pride in HBCU athletics, rooted in community and excellence.

It’s Bigger Than the Game

These coaches aren’t just chasing championships—they’re shaping futures. They’re turning overlooked programs into powerhouses and giving Black athletes an opportunity to thrive within their own culture. They’re proving that HBCUs are not just a stepping stone, but a destination for greatness.

Their message is clear: You don’t have to go elsewhere to be seen, respected, or developed. You can do it right here—at an HBCU.

Final Word: Building Legacy Through Leadership

From Deion Sanders to Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, Reggie Theus to Tyrone Wheatley, these former pros are rewriting the script for HBCU athletics. They’re not just coaching—they’re cultivating a culture of confidence, excellence, and possibility.

This is how we change the game.

This is how we invest in our future.

This is how we win.