By Magnolia Mornings, Magnolia Tribune
Jackson State’s Dave Clark has been announced as an inductee into the College Baseball Hall of Fame as one of 21 standouts selected for the Class of 2026.
JSU Athletics said Clark made the journey from a determined young athlete to a standout collegiate performer. His career began with humble beginnings but quickly evolved into one of distinction, particularly during his time at Jackson State University.
Arriving on campus in the fall of 1980, the school said Clark made the most of his opportunity by developing into one of the most dynamic players in program history. By his sophomore season in 1982, Clark had emerged as a national talent, batting .363 while earning The Sporting News All-America honors. That same season, he helped lead Jackson State to Southwestern Athletic Conference championship and a historic milestone as the first HBCU program to qualify for an NCAA Division I Regional.
Clark elevated his performance even further in 1983, delivering a dominant junior campaign in which he batted .378 with 13 home runs. His outstanding play earned him SWAC Most Valuable Player honors. During both his sophomore and junior seasons, Clark was named team MVP. His exceptional collegiate career led to selection in the first round of the 1983 Major League Baseball Draft by the Cleveland organization, where he was chosen 11th overall.