What happened: Kendrick Perkins has agreed to take over as general manager of Jackson State's men's basketball program, according to a report. The former NBA champion is expected to keep his analyst role at ESPN while building ties to the university's broadcast and journalism program. He would work alongside new head coach Trey Johnson and athletic director Ashley Robinson, with school officials yet to make a formal announcement.

Why it matters: The hire pairs a recognizable national voice with a program looking to climb back to relevance. Jackson State has not reached the NCAA Tournament since 2007 and is coming off a losing campaign, so Perkins brings both name recognition and a 14-year NBA résumé to a roster-building role. It also continues an active offseason stretch for Perkins, whose move to Jackson State has been building over recent days.

What to watch: Watch for an official announcement from Jackson State confirming the role and how Perkins splits time between the program and his ESPN duties.