Angel Jackson Makes History as Second HBCU Player to Be Drafted in 20 Years

Angel Jackson was just drafted into the WNBA, and she’s already making history!

Jackson was the second-ever player from an HBCU to be drafted by the WNBA, Black Enterprise reports. The 6-foot-6 center from Jackson State University in Mississippi was picked No. 36 in the third round by the back-to-back champion Las Vegas Aces during the WNBA draft on April 15, the final selection overall and the only draftee from an HBCU to be selected during the night.

Made her dreams a reality? @hooper_angel15 is headed to the @LVAces as the 36th pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft! pic.twitter.com/YH16re2Pjz

— Jackson State Women’s Basketball (@GoJSUTigersWBB) April 16, 2024

The first time an HBCU player was drafted was nearly 20 years ago when the Washington Mystics selected Andrea Gardner, who played for the team in 2008.

She originally began her collegiate career with the University of Southern California before transferring to the Mississippi HBCU, where she led the Jackson State Tigers to two regular season championships in a row.

“I am proud that we are able to do great things right in our HBCU community,” Jackson State coach Tomekia Reed said. “I know Angel will do a great job once she lands in Vegas. She loves the game and has worked hard for this moment. I plan on being there with her for a brief moment when she touches in Vegas. I’m so happy her dream has come true. I am one proud coach.”

Jackson State boasts two WNBA draftees from an HBCU. Ameshya Williams-Holliday was selected by the Indiana Fever during the 2022 Draft.

If Jackson makes it to the official roster, she will begin her history-making career with the WNBA when the season opens on May 14.