Leilani Armenta, the first woman to score in a Division I HBCU football game, is taking her talents to the professional level.
Armenta, who played football at Jackson State, announced via social media that she will join the Mississippi Panthers of the Women’s National Football Conference.
Armenta rose to national prominence after becoming the first woman to score in an FCS HBCU football game.
After entering the transfer portal due to uncertainty about her playing future at Jackson State, she ultimately chose to stay and complete her degree, citing the university’s academic strengths.
— Leilani Armenta 🌺 (@LeilaniArmenta) May 31, 2025
“While I never anticipated not playing at Jackson State, the decision was ultimately out of my hands,” Armenta wrote. “My education has always been my primary focus, and Jackson State has provided me with a top-tier academic experience that I am proud of.”
Rather than transfer to another school, Armenta decided to go pro, continuing her advocacy for women in football.
“As someone who has always been and will always be an advocate for women in sports — especially in football — I am honored to represent both my university and the WNFC,” she said.
Armenta emphasized the broader significance of her journey: “This journey is about more than just me. It’s about pushing the boundaries for women in sports, seizing opportunity, and staying true to both purpose and passion.”
