JACKSON, Miss. (MSI) — Former NBA center and ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins has agreed to become the general manager of Jackson State University’s men’s basketball program, according to a report Friday by ESPN.com.
Perkins, who spent 14 seasons in the NBA and won a league championship with the Boston Celtics in 2008, has been working as a television analyst for ESPN since 2019. The network reported that Perkins intends to continue in his current television role while also maintaining ties to Jackson State’s broadcast and journalism program.
The deal was first reported by ESPN.com. School officials have not yet made an announcement.
Perkins will work alongside new Jackson State head coach Trey Johnson and athletic director Ashley Robinson. The Tigers went 12-21 last season and have not reached the NCAA Tournament since 2007.
During his NBA career, Perkins played for the Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, New Orleans Pelicans and Cleveland Cavaliers. He won his title with the Celtics in 2008, starting alongside Kevin Garnett, Paul Pierce and Ray Allen.