Halftime Heroes: SO College Basketball Team Lights Up the USM Halftime Show

During halftime of the USM men’s basketball game vs. James Madison on January 31, the SO College basketball team hit the court to scrimmage, show off their skills, and feel the love from an incredible crowd. With USM cheerleaders firing up the arena and tossing IDS souvenirs into the stands, it was a moment filled with inclusion, teamwork, and pure school spirit.

Huge thanks to USM Assistant Athletic Director of Marketing, Leah Williams, for helping make this unforgettable experience possible.

SO College Southern Miss is a unified sports and student engagement organization that brings college students and Special Olympics athletes together as teammates and peers. Our mission is to promote meaningful inclusion through shared sports, teamwork, leadership, and community building. What began as a small recreational group has grown into a vibrant campus organization that encourages confidence, friendship, and the belief that “everyone belongs on the field/court.”

Our Special Olympics athletes bring unmatched talent and dedication, while our unified partners, including student organizations, Luckyday Scholars, and campus volunteers, bring friendship, encouragement, and shared team spirit. Many individuals have grown together through seasons of practice, celebration, challenge, and triumph. Today, SO College continues to expand, working to introduce future opportunities in fitness, soccer, pickleball, e-sports, and more.

To learn more about SO College Southern Miss, contact Aysha Robertson, Transition Specialist, at 601-266-4612 or aysha.robertson@usm.edu.