PRAIRIE VIEW, TEXAS – The Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame Committee, chaired by Laura Collins and Prairie View A&M University Athletics Director Anton Goff, announced the 2024 induction class.
Fans and alumni are invited to the Hall of Fame Induction dinner and Ceremony to be held Friday, November 8, 2024, at the Sterling Banquet Hall (5701 Bingle Rd. #104-A Houston, TX).
The 2024 Prairie View A&M University Sports Hall of Fame Class includes PV's second-year Head Volleyball Coach Cheri Lindsay (Volleyball), Alphonse Provo (Football), Tamika Newman (Volleyball), Chris Adingupo (Football), Jeanette Jackson (Women's Basketball), KJ Black (Football), and Terracia Moody Cooper (Women's Track & Field). Two teams will also be honored, the 2018 softball team and the 2006-07 SWAC Championship women's basketball team.
Christopher Adingupu Bio: Adingupu, a proud native of Miami, Florida, is a celebrated inductee of the Prairie View A&M University Sports Hall of Fame, recognized for his remarkable contributions to the football program. During his time at PVAMU from 2007 to 2010, he emerged as a standout linebacker and a three-year starter, leaving an indelible mark on the team's history.
Adingupu earned All-Conference honors twice, in 2009 and 2010, and was the leading tackler for the team during both seasons. His defensive skills were instrumental in the team's success, including the 2009 SWAC Football Championship. His leadership and tenacity on the field helped pave the way for the team's invitation to prestigious bowl games.
In addition to his accolades, the Miami native was named a Preseason All-American and a Preseason All-SWAC selection in 2010. After college, he signed as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Vikings in 2011, showcasing his talent at the professional level.
Off the field, Christopher has excelled in his career, receiving the Circle of Excellence award from Gillman Auto from 2017 to 2020 for his outstanding sales performance and exceptional customer service. A committed community leader from Miami, Christopher is a life member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and has held the position of Vice President of Today's Omega Making a Change (TOMAC) since 2018. His community service includes participating in initiatives such as "Adopt a Block" (2015-present), Meals on Wheels (2016-present), and support for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (2017-present). Adingupu's journey from a star athlete at PVAMU to a dedicated professional and community leader exemplifies the spirit of excellence that the Prairie View A&M University Sports Hall of Fame seeks to honor.
KJ Black Bio:
Kenneth "K.J." Black, hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, is a celebrated figure in Prairie View A&M University football history and is recognized for his exceptional talents as a quarterback and impactful contributions to the sport. A standout athlete from 2009 to 2010, Black set multiple passing records at Prairie View, showcasing his skill and determination on the field. During his time with the team, he earned varsity letters for his commitment and performance.
Black's collegiate career was marked by significant accolades, including the 2009 SWAC Offensive Player of the Year and MVP of the SWAC Championship Game. He was honored as a member of the 2009 HSRN All-American Team and received the Pigskin Award, highlighting his outstanding performance that season. His achievements culminated in his induction into the Prairie View A&M Hall of Fame in 2016 as part of the legendary 2009 football team.
After his collegiate career, Black continued to play professionally with the West Texas Roughnecks (IFL) in 2011, the Cedar Rapids Titans (IFL) in 2012, and the New Mexico Stars (LSFL) in 2013. He was named Team Offensive MVP for the Cedar Rapids Titans, showcasing his ability to lead and perform at a high level.
Transitioning into coaching, Black made a significant impact on offensive play. Currently, he serves as an Offensive Assistant for the Atlanta Falcons, where he applies his expertise to develop players and enhance team performance. In 2015, he led the highest-scoring offense in the nation, averaging 44.9 points per game. His mentorship resulted in notable achievements for his quarterbacks, including a season where the combined yardage reached nearly 3,000 yards in 2017. Freshman QB Neiko Hollins led the conference in touchdowns with 22 during his six starts under Black's guidance. Additionally, TE Zarrian Holcombe received 1st Team All-Conference and HBCU All-American honors in 2018.
In 2019, Black's coaching prowess shone when QB Ryan Stanley earned MEAC Offensive Player of the Year and 1st Team All-MEAC honors, becoming a finalist for Black College Player of the Year. Black is also a three-time participant in the NFL QB Coaching Summit, further demonstrating his commitment to excellence in coaching.
Beyond his athletic and coaching achievements, Black has been recognized for his leadership and character. He served as a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) leader for his team in 2009 and 2010 and received the Key to the City of Prairie View for his athletic accomplishments in 2009. He is also an active member of the Prairie View A&M University National and Local Alumni Association, contributing to the university community.
K.J. Black's induction into the Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame honors his extraordinary contributions to football, both as a player and a coach. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of athletes, exemplifying the spirit of excellence, leadership, and commitment that defines Prairie View A&M University.
Jeanette Jackson Bio:
Jackson, a native of Las Vegas, Nevada, is a standout athlete and influential figure in the history of Prairie View A&M University women's basketball program. As a four-year starter and letter-winner from 2011 to 2015, Jackson made an indelible mark on the program, becoming the all-time leading scorer in school history. Her prolific scoring ability and leadership on the court were pivotal in securing SWAC Tournament Championships from 2011 to 2014.
Jackson's remarkable collegiate career earned her numerous accolades, including being named a Mid-Major All-American and securing 1st Team All-Conference honors throughout her four years. Graduating with a commendable 3.5 GPA, Jackson demonstrated her dedication on and off the court. Her stellar performance culminated in her recognition as the SWAC Player of the Year for the 2014-2015 season, during which she also led the conference in scoring. Jackson's contributions were crucial in achieving three NCAA Tournament appearances and one WNIT appearance.
After her collegiate success, Jackson continued her basketball journey as a professional player in Spain and Romania, where she earned 1st Team All-Conference honors. Her influence extended beyond the court, as she was celebrated with a billboard along Highway 290, showcasing her achievements and impact as the face of the Prairie View A&M women's basketball program.
Beyond her athletic accomplishments, Jackson is deeply committed to her community. She received a key to the city of Prairie View for her contributions to the community and her role in the championship teams. Each year, she organizes an annual Christmas toy drive, collecting toys, clothes, and shoes for those less fortunate. These donations are given to Hempstead ISD families in need, demonstrating her dedication to uplifting her community.
In her current position as an assistant coach at Prairie View A&M University, Jackson helps student-athletes connect with former alumni to assist with post-graduation opportunities and job hunts. She is passionate about guiding players as they strive to reach their professional goals, both in basketball and beyond.
Jeanette Jackson's induction into the Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame honors her extraordinary contributions to women's basketball and her unwavering commitment to her community. Her legacy continues to inspire young athletes, exemplifying the values of hard work, dedication, and excellence that define Prairie View A&M University.
Cheri Lindsay's Bio:
Lindsay, a proud native of Denver, Colorado, had a remarkable collegiate career at Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU), where she played from 2008 to 2010. As a three-year starter, she excelled as both an outside hitter and defensive specialist. Lindsay's performance earned her first-team All-Conference honors for three consecutive years, and she was named SWAC Player of the Week five times. Her leadership shone as a three-year team captain, and she was recognized as a 2010 All-Region selection by the AVCA. Under her influence, the team clinched the Western Division Championships in 2009 and 2010.
Lindsay's statistics are a testament to her talent and hard work. She recorded 1,300 career kills, with 1,000 at PVAMU, and amassed 1,000 career digs, including 700 at PVAMU. Notably, during her junior year, she had an impressive 442 kills, 1,121 total attacks, and 302 digs. Her skill was recognized early on when she was named Freshman of the Year for NJCAA Region 9 and earned First Team All-Region honors during her time in junior college.
Cheri's commitment extended beyond the court; she was named to the Dean's List in both 2009 and 2010 while maintaining a GPA of 3.4 throughout her college career.
Following her playing days, Lindsay transitioned to coaching, where she has made significant contributions to the sport. Her accolades include being named Oklahoma Coach of the Year in 2021 and earning recognition as an NCAA 30 Under 30 in 2014. She was also a recipient of the WAC Assistant Coach of the Year in 2019 and KCAC Coach of the Year in 2015. As the current head volleyball coach at PVAMU, she continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Beyond her professional achievements, Cheri is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and has led the yearly food and toy drives at Loyola Catholic Church since 2015, demonstrating her commitment to community service.
With a career marked by outstanding athletic achievements, academic success, and dedicated service to her community, Cheri Lindsay's legacy continues to grow as she shapes the future of volleyball at PVAMU and beyond.
Terracia Moody (Cooper) Bio:
Moody is a distinguished athlete from Longview, Texas, whose impact on the Prairie View A&M University track and field program is both profound and enduring. A standout in the 400-meter dash, she exemplified talent and determination throughout her collegiate career. In 2010, Moody qualified for the USA Junior Outdoor Track & Field Championships (IAAF World Junior Championship Trials) in Des Moines, Iowa, after posting a season-best time of 54.66 seconds in the 400-meter dash at the SWAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships. At that time, she ranked among the top 15 freshmen in the nation in the quarter mile. Her versatility was further showcased as she competed in both the 200 and 400-meter dashes at the World Junior Championships.
In 2012, Moody achieved a significant milestone by qualifying for the NCAA Division I Track and Field West Preliminary Round in Austin, Texas, where she set a career-best time of 53.91 seconds in the 400 meters at the SWAC Outdoor Track and Field Championship. The following year, she continued to break records, finishing fourth in the 60-meter dash (7.67 seconds) at the SWAC Indoor Championships and placing second in the 200 meters (24.51 seconds). In 2013, she earned the SWAC Indoor Runner of the Week award after running a remarkable 55.38 seconds in the 400-meter dash, which propelled her to a third-place finish at the12-Team Invitational at Texas A&M and moved her up to 19th nationally. That same year, her personal best in the 400 meters came at the SWAC Indoor Championships, where she clocked an impressive 54.36 seconds, establishing an all-time SWAC indoor record. Moody was also a key member of the 4x400 relay team that set a SWAC record with a time of 3:46.19.
Throughout her illustrious career, Moody garnered numerous accolades, including the 2013-2020 SWAC Indoor 400 Meter Record Holder and multiple All-Conference honors in 2010, 2012, and 2013. She served as team captain and was a three-year letterman, earning titles as a SWAC Indoor and Outdoor Relay Champion in 2010, 2012, and 2013. Moody was recognized as a NCAA West Regional Qualifier and received the Mrs. G.E. Higgs Leadership Award for her outstanding contributions to the Prairie View A&M Women's Track Team. She was named Most Valuable Player of the Year in 2010, 2012, and 2013 and consistently earned a spot on the Dean's List for her academic achievements.
Since 2021, Terracia, now residing in Houston, has dedicated herself to coaching as the Volunteer Head Track Coach for the Space City Track Club. In this capacity, she coaches over 30 young athletes, demonstrating a strong commitment to their development and success. She has led her athletes to achieve records and titles at local and national levels, focusing on proper running techniques and performance enhancement.
Moody's commitment to service extends beyond athletics. She has volunteered as a consultant coach for the Prairie View A&M Women's Track Team from 2015 to 2019 and assisted at the 2018 Outdoor Track and Field SWAC Championship. Additionally, she has contributed her time as a short-term grievance support volunteer for teenage girls at Bo's Place Camp for Healing Hearts and has been involved in social justice initiatives through projects like KIPP Courage's Identity Project.
Terracia Moody's induction into the Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame honors her remarkable achievements on the track and her unwavering dedication to uplifting future generations of athletes. Her legacy continues to inspire, exemplifying the spirit of hard work, perseverance, and community service that defines the Prairie View A&M University athletic program.
Tamika Newman Bio:
Newman is a distinguished athlete and leader whose impact on Prairie View A&M University's athletics and the broader community is profound. Hailing from Houston, Texas, she excelled in both volleyball and basketball during her time at PVAMU from 2004 to 2007, earning varsity letters in both sports. As a four-year starter in volleyball, Newman played a pivotal role in leading her team to two Western Division Championships in 2004 and 2005, as well as a SWAC Championship in 2006. Her senior year was particularly remarkable, highlighted by her performance of 20 kills against Texas A&M University.
In addition to her athletic prowess, Newman excelled academically, making the Dean's List in multiple semesters throughout her undergraduate studies. She graduated Cum Laude from Texas Southern University's Graduate School in 2010, reflecting her dedication to both her education and her sport.
Professionally, Tamika has received numerous accolades, including being named District Coach of the Year for two consecutive years (2014 and 2015) as a 6A Varsity Volleyball Coach in Houston. Currently serving as the Athletic Director at Northland Christian School, her leadership and expertise have been recognized by the American Volleyball Coaches Association, honoring her for achieving over 200 wins as a head high school coach. Newman's commitment to her craft is further demonstrated by her participation in prestigious coaching internships and programs, such as the Big XII Diversity Internship and the Big 10 Coaches Outstanding Achievement.
Beyond her coaching and athletic accomplishments, Newman is a published author, having co-written four books, two of which became Amazon Bestsellers. She is also the owner of Grit and Grind Athletics LLC, which provides quality training in underserved areas across the country.
Tamika's commitment to community service is evident through her extensive volunteer work. She has contributed over 100 hours at the Houston Food Bank and is an active member of The Living Word Church. As a community relations chair for the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association and a member of the Texas High School Coaches Association, she continues to advocate for sports and education.
Newman has maintained a strong connection with Prairie View A&M University, supporting various initiatives, including donating to volleyball's digital fundraising efforts and hosting speaking events for the athletic department. She served as an Assistant Volleyball Coach for the 2019 and 2020 seasons, helping lead the team to the SWAC Championship game and coaching five All-Conference players during her tenure.
Tamika Newman's legacy as a dedicated athlete, coach, and community leader exemplifies her commitment to excellence and service. Her induction into the Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame honors her exceptional achievements and lasting impact on the university and its athletic programs.
Alphonse Provo Bio:
Provo, a native of Houston, Texas, is celebrated for his remarkable achievements both on the field and in his professional career. After graduating from Ross Shaw Sterling High School, he received an academic scholarship to Prairie View A&M University, where he made a significant impact on the football program from 1991 to 1994.
During his time at PVAMU, Alphonse was a four-year starter and letterman, playing as an Inside Linebacker. He served as team captain for three of those seasons under Coach Ronald Beard. Provo made an immediate impact in his freshman year, earning the SWAC Newcomer of the Year award in 1991. He ranked fourth in the conference in tackles and second on his team. His performance continued to shine as he ranked third in the SWAC in tackles and first on his team in 1992, and repeated this feat in 1994. Notably, in 1993, Alphonse set a PVAMU record with 28 tackles in a single game against Arkansas Pine Bluff, with 21 of those being solo tackles. His excellence on the field earned him the title of PVAMU Defensive Player of the Year in both 1992 and 1994.
After graduating with a bachelor's degree, Alphonse entered the insurance industry, where he has excelled, holding various positions ranging from Claims Representative to Vice President of Claims. His leadership skills extend beyond the workplace; he has been a dedicated board member of Hopewell Supportive Services since 2019 and is a member of the National Alliance of Mental Illness since 2020. Additionally, Alphonse is actively involved in his community through his church, the Word of God Christian Fellowship.
Alphonse remains a strong supporter of PVAMU athletics, making monetary donations to the football program and sponsoring Friends of Bubba. As a former season ticket holder, he attends various games throughout the season to support multiple sports.
Now residing in Cypress, Texas, Alphonse is happily married and the proud father of one son. His dedication to both his professional career and his community reflects the values instilled in him during his time at Prairie View A&M University. Alphonse Provo's induction into the Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame honors his exceptional achievements and enduring legacy.
Women's Basketball Team Bio:
The 2006-2007 Prairie View A&M University women's basketball team etched its name in history as the first squad to win both the SWAC regular season title and the SWAC Championship. With a record of 19-14 and a conference season record of 14-4, this remarkable team showcased exceptional talent, teamwork, and determination. Key players included Tournament MVP Candice Thomas, who delivered outstanding performances throughout the championship, and Freshman of the Year Gaati Werema, recognized for her impressive contributions on the court. Werema and Shavoone Smith earned SWAC First Team honors, while Candice Thomas received Second Team recognition. Twila Hutchinson was honored with a spot on the SWAC Third Team, highlighting the depth of talent on the roster. The team also celebrated academic excellence, with Angel Smith being named to the All-SWAC Academic Team and honored as Female Athlete of the Year. This commitment to both athletics and academics exemplified the values of Prairie View A&M University. The roster included notable players such as Twila Hutchinson, Karessa Sauls, Gisele Price, Chelsea Marshall, Krystal Williams, Domonique Warrior, Eryn Scott, Dominiquea Holman, and Tanesha Barefield. The team was expertly guided by coaches Cynthia Cooper-Dyke and Toyelle Wilson, whose leadership and vision were instrumental in the team's success. The 2006-2007 women's basketball team not only set a high standard for future generations but also made a lasting impact on the program and the university. Their legacy continues to inspire current and aspiring athletes, embodying the spirit of teamwork, perseverance, and excellence. The induction of the 2006-2007 Prairie View A&M Women's Basketball Team into the Sports Hall of Fame honors their groundbreaking achievements and the profound influence they have had on the Prairie View A&M University community. Their historic season remains a defining moment in the legacy of women's basketball at the university.
Women's 2018 Softball Team Bio:
The 2018 Prairie View A&M University Women's Softball Team achieved a historic milestone, winning the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Championship for the first time in 20 years. This championship marked only the second in the program's history, with the previous title won in 1998. Under the guidance of Head Coach Vernon Bland, the Lady Panthers showcased exceptional resilience, winning six consecutive elimination games to secure the title. With an overall record of 20-23 and a conference record of 11-6, the team made a remarkable run in the SWAC Tournament. The championship games against Alabama State were thrilling contests, with the Lady Panthers triumphing 5-3 in Game 1 and narrowly clinching victory with a 4-3 score in Game 2. Laurisa "Yaya" Hernandez was a standout performer, earning SWAC Tournament MVP honors after an impressive performance at the plate, going 10-for-21 with 10 RBIs throughout the tournament. She was joined on the All-Tournament Team by her teammates Crystal Castillo, Destinee Williams, and Kylar Ward-Flowers, highlighting the collective effort that led to the team's success. The roster included notable athletes such as Amada Ford, Gabrielle Roberts (Fonesca), Kellady Johnson, Kimberly Hernandez, Kelsey Rozypal (Coronado), Keona Hunter, and many more. The coaching staff, which included Assistant Coaches Joseph Lane and Jasmine S. Becks, played a crucial role in developing the talent and teamwork that propelled the Lady Panthers to victory. Following their championship win, the Lady Panthers earned a spot in the NCAA Tournament, further solidifying their legacy as one of the premier programs in SWAC history. The 2018 team not only exemplified determination and skill on the field but also fostered a sense of pride within the Prairie View A&M University community. Their historic championship run and the bonds forged during their journey continue to inspire future generations of athletes at PVAMU, making the 2018 Women's Softball Team a deserving inductee into the Prairie View A&M Sports Hall of Fame.
The athletics department will recognize the class of 2024 at halftime on Saturday, February 9, during the Prairie View A&M—Florida A&M football game.
Tickets for the PVAMU Sports Hall of Fame dinner and football game can be purchased online at www.pvpanthers.com/tickets.
