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Jim Bibbs, legendary MSU coach, passes away at age 97

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 12, 2026, 5:25 AM

Last updated Oct 12, 2026

Jim Bibbs, legendary MSU coach, passes away at age 97

Summary

Jim Bibbs, the first Black head coach in Michigan State athletics history, has died at the age of 97. MSU athletics confirmed his passing on Saturday, highlighting his 19-year tenure where he coached 52 individual Big Ten champions and 26 All-Americans. Bibbs was renowned for his impact on Spartan athletics and remains the longest-tenured head coach in MSU track and field history. His career included a record-tying performance in the 60-yard dash alongside Jesse Owens, and he is a member of six sports halls of fame, including the MSU Athletics Hall of Fame. Tributes from MSU dignitaries underscored his legacy and influence on countless athletes.

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By the Numbers

•Jim Bibbs coached MSU men’s track and cross country for 19 years.
•He was a pioneer as Michigan State's first Black head coach.
•Bibbs coached numerous All-Americans and Big Ten champions.
•He earned All-American honors in 1951 at Eastern Michigan.
•Bibbs is a member of six different halls of fame.

Latest Updates

5:25 AMYahoo Sports — Legendary MSU Men’s Track and Cross Country coach Jim Bibbs passes away at age 97

What they're saying

"
EAST LANSING, Mich. (WLNS-TV) – Jim Bibbs, the first black head coach in Michigan State athletics history who coached 52 individual Big Ten Champions and 26 All-Americans in a 19-year run leading the MSU men’s track and cross country programs, passed away on Saturday at the age of 97. MSU athletics officially announced Bibbs’ passing […]
— Yahoo Sports

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