Sports
Kevin Dent inducted into the VWSD Athletics Hall of Fame
Kevin Dent was inducted into the Vicksburg-Warren School District Athletics Hall of Fame, recognizing his standout football career at Vicksburg High School and subsequent achievements in college and professional football. The ceremony honored his contributions to local athletics.
VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) —
Kevin Dent has reached some of the highest levels of recognition in football, but his latest honor brought him back to where it all began.
Dent was inducted into the Vicksburg-Warren School District Athletics Hall of Fame on Thursday alongside nine other former athletes and coaches introduced by Athletics Director James Lewis.
“I want to thank my family who allowed me to play this game,” Dent said.
Dent was a standout football player at Vicksburg High School in the 1980s under head coach Jim Sizemore. During Thursday’s ceremony, Dent reflected on the discipline Sizemore instilled in him and his teammates.
“He was really tough on us and we became men,” Dent said. “He made us strong and encouraged us.”
Dent also recognized former coach Alonzo Stevens and the impact he had on his career.
At Vicksburg High, Dent made his presence felt on both sides of the football. At quarterback, he helped lead the Gators to a combined 23-9 record over three seasons. As a senior, he also recorded five interceptions on defense.
In 1984, Dent led Vicksburg to a 10-2 record and a No. 1 ranking in the state. His high school accomplishments also included All-Warren County honors on offense and defense, Player of the Week honors in football and basketball, an All-State football selection, the Most Versatile Award and Outstanding Defensive Player honors. He was also selected to the Mississippi Sports Writers All-Mississippi Team.
Despite being overlooked by many colleges, Dent took his talents to Jackson State University and turned opportunity into success. He led the nation with 10 interceptions in one season and became a key member of the Tigers’ secondary.
Jackson State won 27 of 28 conference games during Dent’s time with the program.
Although his college career brought national recognition, Dent credited Vicksburg with providing the foundation for everything that followed.
“Vicksburg molded me and made me who I am today,” Dent said.
Following his collegiate career, Dent signed as an NFL free agent before going on to play in the World Football League and Arena Football League.
His accomplishments have since earned him induction into the College Football Hall of Fame and Black College Football Hall of Fame.
Now, Dent’s name is permanently etched into the athletic history of his hometown. After receiving honors on some of football’s biggest stages, Thursday’s recognition carried a special meaning because it came from home.
“This here takes the cake because this is my home,” Dent said. “I want to thank my wife and my family and everyone who has been with me because y’all never gave up on me.”
