By Ahmad Smith
An unfortunate incident being covered by national news and sports media, including ESPN, Yahoo Sports, and NBC News, involves Oma, Mississippi native and starting Missouri Tigers football running back Ahmad Hardy, who was shot at a concert near Hattiesburg, Mississippi, on Mother’s Day weekend.
More updates are expected as many wait to hear whether Hardy will be able to return to football practice and games.
Mizzou Athletics released the following public statement regarding the incident:
“Mizzou Football student-athlete Ahmad Hardy was the victim of a shooting at a concert in Mississippi early Sunday and is in stable condition. Ahmad is deeply loved by his teammates, coaches, family and fans. We will continue to stand beside him and his family through this difficult time, offering our love, prayers, strength and support.
“A timeline for his return to football activities is unknown at this time. Mizzou Athletics will provide more information on his status when it becomes available.”
Hardy is currently viewed as having a promising future at Mizzou after leading the SEC with 1,649 rushing yards during the 2025 season. He also earned Sun Belt Conference Freshman of the Year honors while playing at the University of Louisiana-Monroe in 2024.
My opinion is simply that this is a sensitive situation, and our hearts in Mississippi remain with this young man and his family. Ahmad’s story is one many Mississippians can relate to.
Last fall, he delivered one of his best performances against Mississippi State, rushing for more than 300 yards. That performance came not far from the remarkable 400-yard rushing game he had while playing at Lawrence County High School in Copiah County.
During a postgame press conference following Mizzou’s Senior Day victory over Mississippi State, Hardy was asked, “Does this game feel personal for you?”
Hardy responded:
“This game is personal. I’m from Mississippi. I didn’t get a lot of college offers or opportunities. But I told the seniors that I was playing for them.”
We are all praying for your speedy recovery and hopeful return to the football field, young man, as you continue inspiring people across your home state of Mississippi.
