For The E-T
Sarita "Bugg" Cooper-White, a former standout at Delta State University and a legend from Indianola Gentry High School, was inducted into the DSU Athletic Hall of Fame on April 11, during the annual Green-and-White weekend.
The ceremony took place in Jobe Hall, honoring her exceptional contributions to women's basketball at the university. Cooper-White hails from Moorhead.
Cooper-White, who played for Delta State from 2007-2011, was a two-time All-American and a staple of the Gulf South Conference, earning All-Conference honors from 2009 to 2011. She ranks second in program history with 1,027 career points, 249 steals, and 963 assists across 134 games.
"The annual selection and announcement of our Delta State Athletic Hall of Fame class is always a highlight of our year," said Director of Athletics Mike Kinnison. "The inductees for 2025 represent the highest achievements of our former student-athletes, and their accomplishments are evidence of how they have separated themselves to join this elite group."
During her acceptance speech, Cooper-White expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and reflected on her journey. "I want to thank God for everything, especially for helping me understand who I was at a very young age," she said. "I owe so much to the people in my hometown of Moorhead who supported me along the way."
She acknowledged her coaches, teammates, and family, emphasizing the importance of their support throughout her career.
"I couldn't stand here tonight without you. You pushed me to be better," she noted, highlighting the early mornings and late nights spent practicing and competing.
Cooper-White also recognized the role of her family in her success, thanking her parents and siblings for their unwavering support. "To my mom and dad, you are my heroes. All the good things people say about me come from you," she said, her voice filled with emotion.
The 2025 Hall of Fame class induction marks a significant moment for Delta State University, celebrating the achievements of its former athletes and inspiring current student-athletes to strive for excellence.
For more information on the Hall of Fame and the Green-and-White Weekend, visit Delta State University's athletics website.
