The LSU Athletics family is in a state of mourning as Hall of Fame football player Joe Tuminello and women’s basketball standout Danielle Ballard have died.
Tuminello was a football star for the Tigers from 1952-1955 before coaching the freshman team in 1956 that went undefeated and included future Heisman Trophy winner Billy Cannon. While playing at LSU, Tuminello was named an All-SEC player three times, including first-team honors as a senior in 1955.
After his playing career, he spent time coaching at the Academy of the Immaculate Conception and Port Barre High School from 1958-1977. Later, he became the principal at Melville High School before being the personnel director for St. Landry Parish School District.
“My dad exemplified what it was to be a true LSU Tiger, both on and off the field,” his sons Joey and Al Tuminello said. “The numerous awards he received were very meaningful, but he felt his greatest award was the friendship of comradeship with fellow players and coaches.
“He had a positive impact on so many lives as a coach and administrator—far too many to mention. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.”
Ballard tragically passed away after an accident in Memphis. She played for Nikki Fargas and the Tigers from 2012-2015 where she averaged 12.1 points, 6.8 rebounds and 2.8 assists a game in her career while earning first-team All-SEC honors in 2015.
While in Baton Rouge, the Shelby County, Tennessee, led LSU to back-to-back Sweet 16 appearances in the NCAA Tournament.
LSU released the following statement on Ballard’s death:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Danielle. She meant a great deal to our program and was such a big part of our women’s basketball family. It’s difficult to understand why this happened to someone who was so full of life and had so much promise. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.”