Alcorn State University Athletics

The Braves compete in NCAA Division I, meaning serious athletics with full scholarships and regional television coverage. With 335 athletes among 2,290 students, about 15% of campus participates in varsity sports. The athletic department awards over $3 million in scholarships annually across 11 sports programs. Alcorn State plays in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, one of the top HBCU leagues in college sports. The school has produced NFL talent, most quarterback Steve McNair who became an NFL MVP. Football games against conference rival Jackson State generate intense campus excitement and strong alumni turnout. The rural Mississippi setting means athletics serve as a major social center for students. Basketball and football draw the largest crowds, with the football program historically competitive within SWAC play.