Mississippi Christian University to Induct Eight into Sports Hall of Fame during Bicentennial Homecoming
Eight former student-athletes will be inducted into the Mississippi Christian University Sports Hall of Fame during a Bicentennial Homecoming banquet scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday in Anderson Hall at the B.C. Rogers Student Center, according to a university news release.
The inductees include Drew Brooks, Blaine Crim, Thomas Matthews, Courtney Shires, Brooke Smitherman, James “JT” Trimble, Lance Wedgeworth, and Mike Williams. Attendees will include teammates, family members, friends, university officials, and members of the Hall of Fame advisory committee.
MC President Blake Thompson, Athletic Director Kenny Bizot, and others will participate in honoring the inductees, who made significant impacts during their careers. Bizot highlighted their contributions, stating their achievements are part of the university’s athletic history and emphasizing the importance of athletics in fostering character and community.
More than 250 individuals have been inducted into the Hall of Fame since its inception. Jake Donald, the university’s director of alumni and family engagement, noted that nominees are carefully selected by a committee of former athletes and Hall of Famers. The committee typically chooses six to eight inductees annually.
In addition to the induction ceremony, athletic awards will be presented to current students. Tickets for the event are available online.
The 2026 Hall of Fame class features notable athletes including:
Drew Brooks, a former men’s tennis player, who earned multiple all-conference honors and led MC to ASC championships. He later became a business executive and community volunteer.
Blaine Crim, who helped lead the baseball team to a conference championship and played professionally for the Texas Rangers, Colorado Rockies, and in Korea.
Thomas Matthews, a basketball player and coach, who played professionally in Portugal and has extensive high school coaching experience.
Courtney Shires, a standout women’s soccer player who now practices medicine after earning her M.D. and completing residency and fellowship training.
Brooke Smitherman, a two-time All-American in softball, who now works in supply chain management.
James “JT” Trimble, a former track and football athlete who became a high school coach and teacher for more than three decades.
Lance Wedgeworth, an all-conference football player and longtime insurance agent recognized for his community service and leadership.
Mike Williams, a former football standout who played in the NFL after a successful college career at MC.
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