For the first time in 27 years, a new face will be leading Alabama State’s women’s basketball team.
Longtime Hornets coach Freda Freeman-Jackson announced her retirement as the program’s leader after serving in the role since the 1998-99 basketball season.
“As I stand here, reflecting on this incredible journey at Alabama State University, my heart is full of gratitude,” she said in a release. “This program, this university, and this community have been my home, family, and purpose for so many years. Hornet Nation, you are one of a kind. Your energy, passion, and unwavering support fueled us every step of the way. This program is what it is because of you.”
Freeman-Jackson piled up 373 victories in her 27 years as Alabama State’s head basketball coach, garnering four Southwestern Conference tournament titles, three regular season titles, three NCAA tournament appearances and a trip to the WNIT.
The longtime coach helped lead the Hornets to their first NCAA tournament appearance in the 2002–03 season, also leading Alabama State to back-to-back postseason appearances in the 2015 and 2016 NCAA tournaments.
She was induced into the SWAC Hall of Fame in 2019 and Alabama State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2023.
Freeman-Jackson was a player from 1982-1984 and began her coaching career as the head coach at Loachapoka High School. She later joined her alma mater as a graduate assistant before as an assistant on Ron Mitchell’s staff.
“Coach Freda Freeman Jackson’s 27 years of unwavering dedication at Alabama State University has shaped the future of countless student-athletes,” Alabama State vice president and director of athletics Jason Cable said in a release. “Her remarkable achievements, including multiple SWAC championships, induction into the SWAC Hall Fame, and the Alabama State Hall of Fame, speak to her talent, passion and leadership.
“Her legacy will inspire generations to come. Thank you for your phenomenal impact; you are an Alabama State treasure!”