Kendrick Perkins Joins Jackson State as General Manager
Former NBA forward and longtime ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has accepted the role of men’s basketball General Manager at Jackson State University, the historic HBCU located in Jackson, Mississippi. The appointment was confirmed by university officials after weeks of negotiations with Perkins, who will also help steer the school’s broadcast and journalism programs.
Perkins, a 14‑year NBA veteran who captured a championship ring with the Boston Celtics in 2008, brings a wealth of playing and broadcasting experience to the position. In a statement, he said the opportunity to mentor young athletes and give back to his community resonated deeply with him.
A Collaborative Vision with Coach Trey Johnson and Director Ashley Robinson
The move was orchestrated in close collaboration with Jackson State’s head coach Trey Johnson and athletics director Ashley Robinson, who together crafted a role that blends basketball operations with media outreach. Robinson, who serves as vice president and director of athletics, emphasized that Perkins’ involvement will elevate the program’s profile and provide students with real‑world exposure to sports journalism.
Perkins expressed gratitude for the support he received from both Johnson and Robinson, noting that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to developing talent on and off the court. He highlighted the importance of leveraging the university’s broadcast platform to showcase student work and to amplify the voice of the HBCU community.
Looking Ahead
The university hopes Perkins’ hiring will inspire current players and aspiring journalists alike. As the program moves forward, the blend of on‑court strategy and media production is expected to create new pathways for student athletes and creators, reinforcing Jackson State’s mission to foster excellence in both sport and scholarship.