Jackson Celebrates New Inductees to the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame
Jackson, Mississippi, was buzzing with excitement this Tuesday as the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame revealed its newest induction class—the Class of 2025! Eight remarkable athletes, coaches, and contributors to the state’s sports scene have been chosen to join this prestigious group, each with an inspiring story and a legacy that touches many.
Meet the Class of 2025
This year’s inductees include Scott Berry, Steve Freeman, Mike Justice, Dexter McCluster, Derrick Nix, Steve Rives, Robbie Webb, and Mo Williams. Each of these talented individuals has made significant contributions to their respective sports, and their passion for athletics shines through in their personal journeys.
Starting off, Scott Berry served as the head baseball coach at Southern Miss for an impressive 14 years. During his tenure, he led the Golden Eagles to nine NCAA Tournament appearances. After wrapping up his coaching career in 2023, he transitioned to become the Assistant Athletic Director for Community Relations. Berry expressed his gratitude, saying, “It is just a humbly honored day for me, and I share it with all the players and coaches along the way…” His 34 years in Mississippi have had an impact on many young athletes.
A Legacy in Football
Steve Freeman made a name for himself as a defensive back for Mississippi State from 1971 to 1974, later spending 13 seasons in the NFL, representing teams like the New England Patriots and Minnesota Vikings. Post-football, he took up officiating and has been a staple in the NFL since 2001, showcasing his dedication to the sport off the field.
Mike Justice stands out as a legendary high school football coach, boasting a record of 297-98 and four state championships over his impressive 35-year career. He coached at various schools, including Calhoun City, and his influence on young players is remarkable.
Stars Who Shined Bright
Moving to an all-purpose powerhouse in college, Dexter McCluster played at Ole Miss from 2006 to 2009 and holds the second-most all-purpose yards in Rebel history with 4,089. He enjoyed a seven-season stint in the NFL with teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, and his joy at the induction announcement was contagious: “Today is amazing, just being a part of something so special,” he enthused.
Derrick Nix, another Southern Miss alumnus, dazzled as a running back, amassing over 1,000 rushing yards each season he played. While health issues forced an early retirement, Nix has remained involved in the sport as a college football coach at various institutions.
Coaching Excellence and Golf Ingenuity
On the hardwood, Steve Rives impressed with a remarkable coaching record, achieving over 700 wins at different levels, including inspiring generations at Jackson Prep and Delta State. His recent call about the induction had him overcome with emotion, stating, “I’d only observed this from the outside looking in, and now I’m in, and I’m very proud of this.”
Robbie Webb, known as the “Godfather of Golf,” has made his mark as a former Southern Miss golfer who significantly contributed to junior golf development in Mississippi. His efforts are recognized with an award named in his honor, a testament to his commitment to nurturing young talents.
Hoops and Dreams
Lastly, we have Mo Williams, who transitioned from a standout player at Murrah High School to an NBA champion with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2015-16 season. Currently the head coach of Jackson State men’s basketball, Williams reflected on the special day: “This day means everything to me… it really puts into perspective the work you put in in the past.”
A Day to Remember
The Class of 2025 will officially be inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame on August 2, 2025, and it promises to be an emotional gathering filled with celebration and reminiscing about the hard work and perseverance these individuals have shown throughout their careers.
