$60 million gift from Howard family for state-of-the-art indoor athletic practice facility

Mississippi State University (MSU) unveiled ambitious plans for a state-of-the-art indoor practice facility, bearing the name of a beloved and celebrated figure in the university’s athletic history, Billy W. Howard Sr.

The projected $60 million facility is expected to open in the summer of 2028 and is a testament to Howard’s enduring legacy and that of his family, particularly his wife, Linda.

Billy Howard Sr., a distinguished alumnus who graduated in 1946, is renowned for his remarkable athletic prowess.

Excelling in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and track, he earned the affectionate nickname “Iron Man” due to his remarkable ability to play nearly every minute of every football game during his time at MSU.

This dedication and tenacity not only exemplified his commitment to the game but also laid the groundwork for future generations of Mississippi State student-athletes.

The naming gift from Howard Industries, a prominent company based in Laurel, signifies the Howard family’s long-standing commitment to supporting their alma mater and its athletic programs.

Billy and Linda Howard’s involvement in this project reflects their vision for enhancing the university’s athletic facilities and ensuring that current and future athletes have access to top-notch training environments.

In her own right, Linda Howard has been a steadfast supporter of education and athletics, deeply committed to the values of teamwork, perseverance, and excellence that sports foster in young athletes.

As the facility’s design phase unfolds, with the collaboration of renowned architectural firms CDFL and HOK, excitement is building among the MSU community. The new indoor practice facility will span an impressive 110,000 square feet and feature specialized areas dedicated to injury prevention and recovery, showcasing a modern approach to athlete care and training. Renovations are also planned for the adjacent Leo Seal Jr. Football Complex, further enhancing the athletic landscape at Mississippi State.

Head coach Jeff Lebby expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Howard family: “Words cannot truly express how incredibly grateful we are to Howard Industries and the entire Howard family for making this vision a reality.

This new indoor facility will allow us to train more effectively as we compete against the best in the country week in and week out.” His remarks underscore the critical role that this facility will play in enhancing the training regimen of MSU athletes and reinforcing the program’s competitive edge.

The impending groundbreaking, scheduled for 2027, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of Mississippi State’s athletic programs.

With the Howard family involved as both benefactors and inspirational figures, the new indoor practice facility is poised to become a beacon of excellence, embodying the spirit of resilience and the pursuit of greatness that defines MSU athletics.

Through their connection to the university, the Howards continue to inspire future generations of student-athletes to strive for success both on and off the field.