[Photo: Instagram]
Tomekia Reed, the celebrated head coach of the Jackson State women’s basketball team, is leaving her position to join the Charlotte 49ers. The official announcement, posted on social media by the UNC Charlotte women’s basketball program, marks the end of a transformative era for Reed and Jackson State. Her tenure with the Tigers has been nothing short of remarkable, with multiple championships and high accolades marking her journey.
In her six seasons at Jackson State, Reed achieved considerable success, earning four Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Coach of the Year awards and three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Coach of the Year honors. Under her leadership, the Tigers reached the NCAA tournament in 2021, 2022, and 2024, achieving a feat that put Jackson State on the national radar. Her departure to UNC Charlotte, which competes in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), represents a significant step in her coaching career.
During her tenure, Reed’s coaching style and commitment to her players were instrumental in propelling Jackson State to the forefront of women’s collegiate basketball. She fostered a culture of excellence, discipline, and resilience, leading the Tigers to five SWAC regular-season titles and three SWAC tournament titles. Her ability to bring out the best in her players earned her widespread recognition and respect within the basketball community.
This past season, Reed guided the Tigers to the NCAA tournament, where they faced the formidable UConn Huskies, ranked third nationally. Although Jackson State fell short in that game, the team’s journey to the tournament demonstrated the remarkable progress Reed had made with the program. Her players competed with tenacity and skill, reflecting the strong foundation she had built.
Reed’s move to the Charlotte 49ers represents a new challenge and an opportunity for her to continue her impressive coaching career at a higher level. The UNC Charlotte program is eager to benefit from Reed’s expertise and leadership, anticipating that her winning mindset will lead to significant success in the American Conference.
For Jackson State, Reed’s departure raises questions about the future of the women’s basketball program. While her successor has yet to be named, the Tigers are left with a legacy of achievement that will undoubtedly influence their search for a new head coach. Whoever takes the reins at Jackson State will have big shoes to fill, given Reed’s accomplishments and the high standards she set during her tenure.
The Jackson State community, along with fans and supporters, will remember Reed’s time with the Tigers as a period of remarkable growth and success. As she embarks on her new journey with the Charlotte 49ers, there is a shared sentiment of gratitude for her contributions to Jackson State and a sense of anticipation for what she will achieve in her new role. Reed’s legacy as a transformative coach and leader is assured, and her journey with the 49ers is eagerly awaited.
