Legendary Grambling State Baseball Coach Wilbert Ellis to be Inducted into Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame

Legendary former head Grambling State Baseball coach Wilbert Ellis will be honored with induction into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame as part of the 2024 Induction Class. The ceremony is set to take place from June 20-22 in Natchitoches, La.

Ellis, who will receive the prestigious Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, is only the second person to be recognized with this honor. The Ambassador Award, presented by the Louisiana Sports Writers Association, was first given to network broadcaster Tim Brando in 2020. This award acknowledges long-term exemplary contributions to the perception of Louisiana by an individual with ties to the state’s sports landscape.

With an impressive coaching career spanning 43 years, Ellis took over as head coach of the Tigers in 1977 and achieved a remarkable 701-478-2 record in 26 seasons. He led Grambling State to three SWAC Championships and three NCAA Tournament appearances before retiring in 2003. Ellis, whose No. 31 jersey was retired last season, is highly regarded by his peers and players.

Grambling State baseball head coach Davin Pierre praised Ellis, calling him an icon and a living legend. Pierre highlighted Ellis’s values, love for Christ, and his impact on the community. Ellis has previously been inducted into the American Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame, the SWAC Hall of Fame, and the Grambling Legends Hall of Fame.

Ellis will join a distinguished group of inductees in the LSHOF Class of 2024, including Drew Brees, Seimone Augustus, and Daniel Cormier. The 65th Induction Celebration will culminate with the enshrinement of Ellis and the other honorees at the Hall of Fame’s home in Natchitoches. Tickets for the events can be purchased on the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame website.