LORMAN, Miss. – Alcorn State University Men's Basketball General Manager and former NBA standout Monta Ellis was honored with the Key to the City of Jackson on Friday, October 9, during a special ceremony recognizing his remarkable basketball career, contributions to the community and enduring connection to his hometown.
The ceremony, held in Jackson, Mississippi, celebrated one of the state's most accomplished basketball figures, whose journey from Jackson's Lanier High School to the National Basketball Association (NBA) and now the leadership of Alcorn State Men's Basketball continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.
The recognition marked a full-circle moment for Ellis, honoring his rise from a highly touted high school standout in Jackson to an accomplished NBA veteran and collegiate athletics leader. The occasion also highlighted his continued commitment to his Mississippi roots and the lasting impact of his accomplishments both on and off the basketball court.
"Monta Ellis has earned the respect of Mississippi through his talent, his work ethic, and the standard he has established throughout his career, and he is now bringing that same championship mindset to Alcorn State," said Director of Athletics, E. Dwayne Robinson. "His leadership is already making an impact on our men's basketball program and our student-athletes, and we believe his presence will be instrumental as we continue to elevate the Braves on and off the court. The City of Jackson awarding Monta the Key to the City is a powerful recognition of his roots, his accomplishments, and the lasting legacy he is building in Mississippi."
A product of Lanier High School, Ellis established himself as one of the nation's premier basketball prospects, leading the Bulldogs to a pair of Mississippi Class 4A state championships. During his prep career, he amassed 4,167 points and earned McDonald's All-American and Mr. Basketball USA honors in 2005.
Ellis entered the NBA directly out of high school when the Golden State Warriors selected him with the 40th overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft. He went on to enjoy a distinguished 12-year professional career with the Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks and Indiana Pacers.
Known for his explosive scoring ability, quickness and dynamic style of play, Ellis finished his NBA career with 14,858 points, 3,856 assists and 2,874 rebounds while averaging 17.8 points per game. He was named the NBA's Most Improved Player in 2007, solidifying his standing among the league's most productive guards.
In August 2026, Ellis returned to his Mississippi roots when Alcorn State University announced his appointment as General Manager of the Braves men's basketball program, bringing more than a decade of professional experience and extensive basketball knowledge to the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) institution.
Working alongside head coach Jake Morton and the Braves basketball staff, Ellis assists with roster construction, player evaluation, recruiting strategies, transfer portal decisions, name, image and likeness (NIL) opportunities, alumni and donor relationships, and overall student-athlete development.
His role also extends beyond basketball operations, serving as a mentor and resource for student-athletes as they prepare for success in the classroom, in competition and throughout their lives.
Friday's Key to the City recognition highlighted not only Ellis' achievements at the highest level of professional basketball but also the pride and inspiration his journey continues to bring to Jackson and communities throughout Mississippi.
As Ellis continues his work with the Braves, the honor represents another milestone in a career rooted in basketball excellence, perseverance and a commitment to creating opportunities for future generations of student-athletes.
For continued coverage of Monta Ellis and Alcorn State Men's Basketball, visit AlcornSports.com and follow Braves Athletics on social media.
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