Mississippi 2026 Regular Session

Mississippi Senate Bill SR99

Introduced
3/24/26  
Refer
3/24/26  

Caption

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING LEGENDARY BASKETBALL COACH STEVE KNIGHT AS HE RETIRES AFTER A 44-YEAR CAREER AS MEN'S BASKETBALL COACH AT WILLIAM CAREY UNIVERSITY AND HIS 800TH CAREER VICTORY.

Impact

The resolution highlights not only his coaching achievements but also his administrative role as Athletic Director at William Carey University, where he expanded the athletic program significantly from just five sports offerings to 17. Knight's influence at the university led to substantial growth in student-athlete development, making contributions that will resonate beyond his retirement. His ability to foster talent and guide student-athletes has been pivotal in shaping the future of many young men, many of whom have gone on to excel in various professional fields.

Summary

Senate Resolution 99 recognizes legendary basketball coach Steve Knight as he prepares to retire after a remarkable 44-year career at William Carey University. With a coaching record that includes 819 career wins, Knight stands as Mississippi's all-time winningest college basketball coach, making significant contributions to his team's success over the decades. His leadership brought the Crusaders multiple Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) championships and numerous appearances in the NAIA National Tournament, cementing his legacy in college basketball history.

Contention

While the resolution primarily celebrates Coach Knight's achievements, it implicitly raises discussions about the challenges and pressures faced by collegiate coaches. His career epitomizes dedication and excellence in a highly competitive environment, where the balance between winning and nurturing individuals can often lead to contention over coaching styles and expectations. Nevertheless, the overwhelming sentiment around his retirement is one of admiration and respect, reflecting a successful tenure that many aspire to emulate.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MS SR54

Commend Coahoma County High School Head Basketball Coach Derrick Moore for 900th career victory.

MS SR84

Commend legendary USM Lady Eagles Women's Basketball Head Coach upon the occasion of her retirement and induction into Legends Club.

MS SR129

Remembering the legendary NBA basketball career of "Slick" Watts from Rolling Fork, Mississippi, and extending condolences.

MS SC538

Recognize outstanding basketball career of Gentry High School and DSU star Sarita Cooper-White.

MS SR148

Commend Ole Miss Basketball Coach Chris Beard for winning the 2025 National Coach of the Year Award.

MS SR142

Commend career of Jim Ellis upon his retirement as the Mississippi State University Baseball announcer.

MS HC34

Jim Ellis; commend career upon his retirement as the Mississippi State University Baseball announcer.

MS HR125

Northwest MS Community College Baseball Coach Mark Carson; commend on becoming winningest coach in program history.

MS SR66

Extend condolences of Senate on the passing of legendary Alcorn State University Tennis Coach Anthony Bruce Dodgen.

MS SR43

Congratulate Co-Lin Coach Glenn Davis on his retirement as longest-serving Co-Lin football coach.

Similar Bills

AR SR35

To Recognize University Of Central Arkansas And National Basketball Association Star Scottie Pippen For His Achievements And For His Contributions To His Community, The State Of Arkansas, The Nation, And The World.

AR HR1064

To Recognize University Of Central Arkansas And National Basketball Association Star Scottie Pippen For His Achievements And For His Contributions To His Community, The State Of Arkansas, The Nation, And The World.

MS HR107

Michael "Mike" Hood, Jr.; congratulate upon being named Class 5A "Mr. Basketball".

VA HJR211

Commending the Randolph-Macon College women's basketball team.

SC S1142

Walhalla High School Girls Basketball

VA HJ211

Commending the Randolph-Macon College women's basketball team.

MS HR164

Sam Funches of Germantown High School; commend on being named MHSAA Class 7A Mississippi Mr. Basketball.

LA HR201

Commends Ahmad Hudson of the Ruston High School boys basketball team on being named 2026 Mr. Basketball in Louisiana