Kendrick Perkins, a 14‑year NBA veteran and longtime ESPN analyst, has been appointed men’s basketball general manager at Jackson State University, the school announced this week. In his new role he will oversee roster construction, staffing and strategic direction for the Tigers, while continuing to appear on ESPN’s NBA coverage.
Balancing Broadcast and Administration
Perkins will also serve as a liaison to Jackson State’s broadcast and journalism program, offering students hands‑on experience in sports media. He will work directly with head coach Trey Johnson and athletic director Ashley Robinson, who are hoping the new front‑office leadership can lift the program after a 12‑21 season that left the Tigers out of the NCAA Tournament since 2007.
A Growing Trend in College Basketball
The move fits a broader pattern of former NBA stars stepping into front‑office roles at the collegiate level. ESPN insider Adrian Wojnarowski made a similar transition last year when he was named general manager at St. Bonaventure University. That follows earlier appointments such as Shaquille O’Neal at Sacramento State, Steph Curry at Davidson, John Wall at Howard and Damian Lillard at Weber State.
Industry observers say the influx of NBA experience brings both marketing buzz and a fresh perspective to college programs that have struggled to compete nationally. Perkins, who will remain on ESPN’s NBA analyst roster, says he is excited to blend his on‑court insights with administrative duties.
Looking Ahead
Jackson State’s administration believes Perkins’s basketball acumen and media connections will help attract recruits and secure sponsorships. As the Tigers aim to return to the NCAA Tournament, the combination of on‑court talent and front‑office leadership could mark a turning point for the program.