Nikki McCray

Nikki McCray

Former Bulldog Head Coach Nikki McCray-Penson Passes Away

The Mississippi State family mourns the loss of former women's basketball head coach Nikki McCray-Penson.

Nikki McCray was a respected and beloved figure in the world of women's basketball. Her passion for the game and dedication to her players made her a standout coach and mentor. McCray-Penson's coaching career began at the collegiate level, where she served as an assistant coach at Western Kentucky University. She then went on to join the coaching staff at the University of South Carolina, where she helped lead the Gamecocks to three consecutive NCAA Final Four appearances.

In 2017, McCray-Penson was named the head coach of the Mississippi State Bulldogs women's basketball team. Under her leadership, the Bulldogs continued their success, reaching the NCAA Tournament in each of her four seasons at the helm. McCray-Penson's impact extended beyond the basketball court, as she was known for her commitment to developing her players both athletically and personally.

The passing of Nikki McCray-Penson is a tremendous loss for the basketball community. Her legacy as a coach and mentor will continue to inspire future generations of athletes. Our thoughts and condolences go out to her family, friends, and the entire Mississippi State community during this difficult time.