Six former LSU athletes were inducted into the Hall of Fame

BATON ROUGE, La. On Friday, Sept. 19, LSU added six names to its Athletics Hall of Fame, honouring great players and coaches whose exploits shaped the university’s sports legacy.

The new inductees include four-time women’s basketball All-American Temeka Johnson, LSU’s career three-point field goal leader Cornelia Gayden, men’s basketball star Ronald Dupree, national champion golf coach J. Perry Cole, legendary LSU men’s basketball coach John Brady and national champion gymnast Rheagan Courville Branton.

Johnson was one of the nation’s best point guards during her career, leading LSU to its first two Final Four appearances. She stated that the recognition is a reflection of the support she has had throughout her life.

“I did not come here alone. The coaching staff, coaches throughout my entire career, teammates, siblings, parents, grandparents, this is an award for everyone who contributed to who I am as a woman.”

Branton, a 23-time All-American gymnast, was also honoured. She was instrumental in elevating LSU gymnastics to one of the nation’s best programs.

“To see what it’s grown into, to know that I was a part of it, and to be recognised tonight in front of my friends and family, it just feels surreal. “It’s my wildest dream,” Branton explained.

Each inductee was given a commemorative ring, and their names will be permanently recorded in LSU history.

For Johnson, being a Tiger means more than just victories and honours.

“Family, Sue Gunter, Bob Starkey, those who supported me through blood, sweat, and tears to the two Final Fours, passion, desire, I could go on and on. “I’m excited, and yes, I bleed purple and gold, and I’m glad my career took that turn,” Johnson remarked.