Grambling Legends Class of 2025 Inducted
An inspiring celebration welcomed the Grambling Legends Hall of Fame Class of 2025, featuring star athletes and memorable speeches.
It was a star-studded evening as sports legends descended on the Fredrick C. Hobdy Center this past Saturday night to help welcome the newest class of inductees into the Grambling Legends Sports Hall of Fame. Former Hall of Fame inductees like Doug Williams, Everson Walls and Mike Williams were on hand to celebrate and pay homage to their fellow comrades.
The event kicked off with Santoria Black, who served as Master of Ceremony, recognizing the former inductees which drew a warm round of applause as they entered. When the 17th induction class made their way into the room, there was an even greater response.
Moving swiftly through the welcomes by various dignitaries, Michael J. Williams, Grambling Legends president, extended words of thanks and appreciation to Ruby Higgins for the 16 years of working with the Legends organization that hosts the event each year as well as Ray Higgins who, was also recognized for his hard work with the organization and support for his mother.
The inductees this year were:
BENNIE THOMPSON
2025 Football Inductee
Grambling State Defensive Star & Two-Time Pro Bowler
In honor of a Grambling State University career distinguished by 133 tackles, seven interceptions, and All-SWAC recognition. Celebrated for translating his talent and work ethic into an NFL legacy as a feared special teams leader and two-time Pro Bowl selection. A testament to the strength and spirit of Grambling.
CYNTHIA GREEN
2025 Track & Field Inductee
Grambling State NCAA Champion & Olympian
Celebrating an exceptional career at Grambling State University, where she claimed NCAA All-America honors, a national title, and set an indoor record in the 500m dash. Honored for representing Grambling and Jamaica on the Olympic stage and serving as an enduring role model for student-athletes.
CEDRIC SHAW
2025 Baseball Inductee
Grambling State Ace Pitcher & MLB Professional
Commemorating an outstanding career as a 1st Team All-SWAC pitcher and key contributor to Grambling State University baseball. Honored for a professional journey across Major League Baseball organizations, demonstrating resilience, talent, and unwavering commitment to Grambling excellence.
CALVIN SPEARS
2025 Football Inductee
Grambling State University All-SWAC Legend & Defensive Standout
In recognition of becoming the first player in Grambling State University history to earn All-Southwestern Athletic Conference honors four consecutive seasons. Celebrated for leading the Tigers to two SWAC Championships and a Black College National Championship. Honored for outstanding skill, leadership, and dedication that set a standard of excellence for Grambling football.
JERRY GORDON
2025 Football Inductee
Grambling State All-Time Leading Receiver & USFL Professional
In tribute to an extraordinary career as Grambling State University’s all-time leading receiver upon graduation, with 111 receptions for 1,998 yards and 23 touchdowns. Celebrated for shattering records under Coach Eddie Robinson and inspiring generations through his achievements on the collegiate and professional stage.
RANDY HYMES
2025 Football Inductee
Grambling State Multi-Sport Star & NFL Wide Receiver
Honoring a remarkable career as a three-sport letterman in football, basketball, and track at Grambling State University. Recognized for carrying his talent and determination into the NFL, where he contributed as a versatile receiver and special teams asset. A true example of Grambling pride and perseverance.
MARTIN LEMELLE, SR.
2025 Basketball Inductee
Grambling State All-SWAC Basketball Star, Coach & Mentor
Recognized for leading the Southwestern Athletic Conference in assists and total assists, establishing himself among the conference’s elite point guards. Honoring his lasting impact as a student-athlete, coach, and admissions professional whose leadership shaped Grambling State University basketball and inspired future generations.
Cynthia Green, the only female inductee of the 2025 Class and the only track and field athlete, said she was exited when she first found out she was chosen. “I was excited, you know. For me, being in the Hall of Fame was mostly for athletes that I thought were exceptional, who played professional sports and so forth, so when I heard that I was being honored, it was quite exciting. It’s an accomplishment to be included alongside so many great athletes.”
Randy Hymes who spent six years playing for the Baltimore Ravens said this recognition is meaningful for him because it gives him a platform to use for recruiting when he talks to student athletes. “There’s so much history, legacy and tradition [here at Grambling] and this just helps to keep that tradition going.”
He also said he would tell student athletes, “Don’t get distracted because life is not easy. It’s challenging. It gets difficult. Your coach is going to yell at you. You’re going to be tested on and off the field, but don’t get discouraged, don’t get distracted, just stay the course and leave the rest to history.”
Green also had parting words for students. “If there’s something you want to do, just get out and do it. You may not think you have the talent but you never know until you try… If you have the discipline to get up, get off the couch, go out and do things, then bigger things can happen than you even imagined.”