Lamar University boasts a proud roster of accomplished alumni who have achieved national and international prominence across professional sports, entertainment, politics, and industry. Among its most celebrated graduates are legendary NFL head coach Bum Phillips, iconic rock-and-roll musician and songwriter The Big Bopper (J.P. Richardson), former U.S. Congressman Nick Lampson, and professional basketball standout Mike James, all of whom built the foundations of their successful careers after studying in Beaumont, Texas.