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J.A. Thigpen, Jr. Baseball Annex
Designed as a place where players and families can hang out, the J.A. “Bud” Thigpen, Jr. Baseball Annex has been one of the top additions to the Delta State baseball complex since the annex’s completion in 2005.
The family of the late J.A. “Bud” Thigpen, Jr. made the facility a possible by their generous donation to Delta State Athletics. The Thigpens have a long and storied history with Delta State baseball, so the decision to give something back in return for the memories they created only seemed natural.
Judson Thigpen was a standout reliever for Coach Dave “Boo” Ferriss from 1975-78 and was part of two College World Series teams during his playing days. His son, Jud, led DSU to the program’s first ever NCAA Championship and for his efforts was named the 2004 Rawlings/ABCA NCAA Division II Player of the Year. The 2004 NCAA Division II National Championship trophy is proudly on display at the Thigpen Annex along with various Statesmen baseball memorabilia.
Roy Collins Construction, Inc. of Cleveland constructed the facility, and the Thigpen Annex was officially turned over to the Delta State University Department of Athletics on June 13, 2005. The facility was named in honor of Thigpen’s father, who passed away in 2001.
The first floor of the Annex features a large players’ lounge with a flat-screen television set, couches, chairs and a study area. There is also additional storage space for equipment and supplies. The second floor features the coaches’ offices, coaches’ locker room and rest room facilities.
The J.A. “Bud” Thigpen, Jr. Baseball Annex is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Tours of the facility are available to the public.
