Jinks Coleman, a Devoted LSU Tigers Women’s Basketball Coach of Blessed Memories and Longtime Supporter of the LSU Tigers, is Being Remembered and Celebrated by Fans and the Community for Her Unwavering Dedication and Enthusiasm During Her Lifetime
Jinks Coleman’s name resonates with pride, admiration, and enduring legacy within the LSU Tigers community. A pioneer in women’s athletics and a passionate advocate for the LSU Tigers, Coleman left an indelible mark on Louisiana State University and women’s sports at large. Her passing rekindles memories of a trailblazing coach whose devotion went beyond wins and losses—it extended into the hearts of athletes, fans, and colleagues who now celebrate her memory with gratitude and reverence.
Born with a natural leadership spirit and a love for sports, Coleman stepped into a coaching world where women’s athletics were still fighting for recognition. When she became the head coach of the LSU Tigers women’s basketball team in the 1970s, it marked the beginning of a transformative era. Under her leadership, the Lady Tigers grew in strength, skill, and national reputation. She guided the team through its formative years, helping to lay a foundation for what would become one of the most respected programs in women’s college basketball.
Coleman was not just a coach—she was a mentor, a motivator, and a true advocate for her players. Her coaching style emphasized discipline, integrity, and the value of teamwork, but it was her unshakable enthusiasm that made her a beloved figure. She could often be seen encouraging her players from the sidelines with a bright smile and an ever-hopeful spirit, regardless of the scoreboard. Her passion was contagious, sparking a sense of pride and unity within the LSU community.
In addition to her coaching career, Coleman remained a lifelong supporter of the LSU Tigers across all sports. Whether it was basketball, football, baseball, or track, she was a familiar face at games and events, cheering on the teams with the same fervor she had when leading the Lady Tigers. Fans remember her not just for her wins, but for her presence—a beacon of school pride and unwavering loyalty. Her support never waned, even after stepping away from the coaching role.
Her legacy also lives on in the many athletes she mentored who went on to achieve greatness both on and off the court. Former players recall Coleman as someone who believed in them, even when they didn’t believe in themselves. She instilled in them a sense of confidence, perseverance, and resilience that extended far beyond sports. Many credit her guidance for helping them succeed in their personal and professional lives.
Coleman’s contributions to LSU athletics did not go unnoticed. Over the years, she received numerous accolades for her pioneering work, including honors from the university and athletic associations. However, her most significant reward came from the lasting relationships she built and the lives she touched. For Coleman, coaching was never just about basketball—it was about shaping people, building character, and leaving the world a little better than she found it.
As the LSU community reflects on her life, the stories being shared are filled with warmth, humor, and deep appreciation. From spirited pep talks in the locker room to heartfelt conversations off the court, Jinks Coleman’s memory is rich with moments that showcase her love for LSU and its people. Memorial services and tributes are filled with purple and gold, as fans, former players, and fellow coaches come together to celebrate the life of a woman who gave so much of herself to the sport and the school she loved.
In a time where the impact of women in sports continues to grow, Jinks Coleman stands as a towering figure of inspiration. Her journey helped pave the way for future generations of female athletes and coaches. As LSU continues to build on its storied tradition, it does so on the shoulders of giants like Coleman—visionaries who dared to lead, to uplift, and to believe in the power of sport.
Jinks Coleman may no longer walk among the crowds in Tiger Stadium or coach from the sidelines, but her spirit endures. It lives in every chant of “Geaux Tigers,” in every determined athlete who wears the LSU jersey, and in the hearts of those who knew her. A true legend, she is remembered not just for what she did, but for who she was: a devoted coach, a passionate fan, and a cherished member of the LSU family.