It’s not about the win column, it’s about heart.

That message was repeated over and over in celebration of Sacramento State’s men’s basketball head coach Jerome Jenkins, who is coaching his eighth season as the Hornets head coach.

Despite recent losses by the Hornets, it is the fire and energy that Jenkins brings to his team that make them competitive every game.

The tribute to Jenkins was held by the Sacramento State Black Staff and Faculty Association (BSFA) Tuesday evening in the University Union’s Redwood Room.

“The BSFA’s decision to recognize Coach Jenkins came as a result of our wanting to recognize his contributions to the academic success on our (black) basketball players,” said Patricia Holmes, BSFA President.

Jenkins is the third-longest tenured men’s basketball coach in program history and ranks third all-time with 80 career victories.

Since his arrival, Jenkins has led the Hornets to the Big Sky Tournament four times in the last five years and the team has led the conference in steals in every year during Jenkins’ tenure.

Prior to Jenkins receiving the head coaching job, Sac State had never gone to the Big Sky Tournament. Eleven players have graduated with Jenkins as the head coach.

Aside from Jenkins’ family members, many of Jenkins’ current and former players were in attendance, as well as UC Davis men’s basketball coach Gary Stewart.

“It’s a good thing to see him in the spotlight and bring the program to another level,” forward Justin Williams said.

“He deserves it,” forward Jason Davis added.

Much appreciation was given to Jenkins for all the hard work and effort he has put into the program.

Jenkins was applauded for increasing Sac State’s wins per season from 4.1 games prior to his hiring to 10.9 games during the eight years he has coached the team.

Jenkins was very excited to hear that he was being honored that evening.

“It feels good for the hard work recognized for the program,” Jenkins said.

Alexander Villanueva can be reached at [email protected]