EUGENE, Oregon – The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff's track and field legacy continues to thrive on the national stage, as standout sophomore Jordan Pierre delivered a personal-best time of 45.44 seconds in the men's 400-meter semifinal to advance to the NCAA Outdoor Championships Finals at Hayward Field.

Pierre's performance, one of the top times recorded this season across the country, secured his spot among the nation's elite in Friday's championship race. His rise reflects the consistent success of Head Coach Chris McCoy, who has now guided at least one UAPB student-athlete to the NCAA National Championships in seven of the past ten years.

"Jordan's growth this season has been incredible," said Coach McCoy. "He's trusted the process, trained with purpose, and now he's earned the chance to compete for a national title."

While the Golden Lions' 4x100-meter relay team came up short in qualifying for the finals, their season was nothing short of historic. The team, composed of Dwight Henry, Jared Sylvester, Avindale Smith, and Ross Walrond, shattered a school and 37 year old Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) record, posting a season-best time of 39.27 seconds. That mark was good enough to finish 14th in the nation, a rare feat for an HBCU program competing at this level.

"This relay group left their mark. What they accomplished speaks volumes about their dedication and their belief in one another," McCoy added. "They've elevated the standard for our program."

All eyes now turn to Friday, June 13 at 6:02 PM PT, when Pierre will take the track with the goal of bringing a national title back to Pine Bluff. The race will be broadcast live on ESPN.