One of the most electrifying playmakers in CIAA history, Jerome “Biggie” Bell starred at Virginia State University from 1974–79, lettering four years and earning All-CIAA honors. Known as “The Magician,” Bell was celebrated for his exceptional court vision, creativity, and leadership as the catalyst of the famed “Showtime Trojans.”
A four-year starter, Bell earned Co-Rookie of the Year honors as a freshman and went on to become one of the most accomplished point guards in Virginia basketball history. He remains Virginia State’s all-time leader in career assists (791), single-season assists (329), and single-game assists (24), the latter set against Shaw in 1975. He also holds the CIAA Tournament single-game assist record and is the all-time assist leader in CIAA Tournament history.
Bell helped lead the Trojans to the 1975–76 CIAA Championship and guided Virginia State to its highest-ever national ranking of No. 3 in NCAA Division II. His accolades include All-VCAA, All-NAIA, All-CIAA, All-CIAA Tournament Team, and Honorable Mention All-American recognition. He also made history as the recipient of the inaugural CIAA Tournament Hustle Award.
Bell’s impact has been recognized with induction into the Virginia State University Hall of Fame and the John Marshall High School Hall of Fame. Remembered as one of the CIAA’s greatest passers and playmakers, Jerome “Biggie” Bell’s legacy remains a benchmark of excellence within the conference.