The bold red uniforms of the Jackson State athletic teams, introduced by W.C. Gorden and popularized again by Deion Sanders, may have seen their final days. According to an email sent out by JSU President Dr. Marcus L. Thompson, JSU plans to only use red as an accent color and not as a dominant feature.
HBCU Gameday obtained a copy of the email that appears to be sent to at least a portion of Jackson State alumni. The message from Dr. Thompson was labeled as a JSU community update and was dated April 11, 2024. Two sections within the body of the message addressed the future of the JSU brand moving forward in regard to color scheme. Those two sections are listed below exactly as they appeared in the email.
Embracing Our Identity:
At Jackson State University, our brand is more than just colors and logos — it’s a symbol of our rich heritage and unwavering spirit. As we move forward, let us reaffirm our commitment to our iconic Navy Blue and White. I urge all members of Tiger Nation to proudly display our colors, embodying the essence of our university wherever we go. It is critical to provide a cohesive experience to our various audiences by offering a consistent look and feel wherever JSU is present. Therefore, I am asking Tiger Nation to rededicate yourselves to donning JSU Blue and White predominately.
Looking Ahead:
This summer, we will publish an updated university-style guide to ensure consistency and clarity across all platforms. As we refine the university’s brand identity, we do so with the utmost respect for our cherished history and traditions. This update will emphasize navy blue and white as our official university colors and include red as an accent color. Moving forward, we will exercise caution and limited usage of the red, embracing its role as an accent rather than a dominant feature. Through collaboration with our licensed vendors, we aim to reaffirm our school colors in every aspect of our community, from apparel to digital platforms.
Together, let us honor our past, celebrate our present, and embrace the bright future that lies ahead for Jackson State University. Your unwavering support and dedication propel us forward as we continue to build upon our cherished traditions and forge new paths together at our “dear ole’ college home.”
The Jackson State women huddle up in their red uniforms.
The red uniforms, specifically for Jackson State football, were popularized during the W.C. Gorden era, who coached at JSU from 1976 to 1991. The red unis went dormant for several years until they were popularized once again when Deion Sanders took over as head coach. The uniforms were also popular for the women’s basketball team. Head coach Tomekia Reed voiced her displeasure over the decision via social media on Friday.
When my players see RED that means “SHOWTIME”. This will be hard for us!
“When my players see RED that means “SHOWTIME” This will be hard for us!” she wrote on X.
The idea of where the color red fits into the Jackson State color scheme has been a long standing debate amongst fans. When Deion Sanders reintroduced the red uniforms in 2021, it opened the debate up for an entirely new generation of fans.
But based on the message sent this week from the University president, the debate will rage on as the red jerseys are sacked, at least for the time being.
