Leilani Armenta, the Jackson State kicker who made history as the first woman to score a point in a Division I HBCU football game, has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal
Her exit marks the end of a groundbreaking chapter in Black College Football and JSU.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to JSU alumni and fans who have supported me through my journey,” she wrote in a social media post. “Thank you to my teammates and coaches. I have entered the transfer portal and I am excited for the future.”
I want to extend my sincere gratitude and appreciation to JSU alumni and fans who have supported me through my journey.
Thank you to my teammates and coaches.
I have entered the transfer portal and I am excited for the future. pic.twitter.com/D37o641xxU
— Leilani Armenta 🌺 (@LeilaniArmenta) April 22, 2025
Armenta, a native of Ventura, California, first joined the Jackson State football program in 2023 as a backup kicker, stepping in after a wave of injuries left the Tigers in need of help at the position.
Originally recruited for the women’s soccer team, Armenta’s transition to football was both unexpected and historic.
In October 2023, she etched her name in the record books by converting three extra points during Jackson State’s 40-14 victory over Arkansas-Pine Bluff, becoming the first woman to score in an HBCU football game.
Her impact extended beyond the stat sheet. Armenta’s presence on the field represented a milestone for women in college football, especially at a high-profile HBCU program.
Leilani Armenta’s (@LeilaniArmenta) first extra point to make HBCU D1 History as seen on ESPN+🏈🏈
She made her XP debut after an early JSU missed PAT, and kicked every XP from there on, nailing all three of her tries. #TheeILove
Bad day for a certain crowd. pic.twitter.com/FSBLANR5dd
— Bradley Davis (@DdavisBradley) October 29, 2023
Over two seasons, she scored four points for the Tigers, with three in 2023 and one in 2024, and inspired countless fans and athletes by breaking barriers and showing that women can compete at the highest levels of college football.
As she explores new opportunities, Armenta is reportedly seeking to continue her collegiate career as a dual-sport athlete, hoping to play both football and soccer at her next institution.
Whether she remains on the gridiron, returns full-time to the soccer pitch, or balances both, her legacy at Jackson State is secure.
