Retired Biloxi High School Head Basketball Coach Jackie Laird’s accolades are undeniable as far as round ball is concerned. Amongst the many are being responsible for the school’s first ever state championships in basketball back in 1989 and 90. It’s what he’s known for off the court that might surprise many. He was one of the first Caucasian men to spend a considerable amount of time in neighborhoods that surround East Biloxi. In the 1980’s he was notorious for just popping into one of the area gymnasiums to check on his players and upcoming talent. The strict disciplinarian that he was demanded that each player carry himself in a dignified manner or reap the consequences of poor decisions by running until your tongue dragged the ground. He provided his players with transportation to appointments, loaned them money, and stood up for them when he felt they were being wronged. His former players feel like the gym should already have bared his name when they built the new school, so this petition will get the school board’s attention.