Deion Sanders shows appreciation for Mama Connie Knight

Colorado Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders never hesitates to remind the world of the most important influence in his life his mother, Connie Knight.

On Wednesday, during a virtual pep rally hosted by BLK & Bold Co-Founders Pernell Cezar and Rod Johnson, Coach Prime again shared heartfelt reflections on how his mother shaped his journey into the version we see today.

When asked about his parental figure, Sanders immediately pointed to the role of Mama Connie and his stepfather, Willie Knight. While he admitted she never attended his high school football games, Sanders explained it wasn’t out of a lack of love, it was because she was working tirelessly to provide for him and his sister.

“My mama, it’s still to this day, is her. Never complain, never took a day off work,” Sanders said. “She never saw me play ball in high school… not that she didn’t want to, she was working.”

Instead of feeling sorry for himself, Sanders turned that absence into motivation. He recalled making a vow as a seven-year-old that he would become successful so his mother would never have to work another day. It's often mentioned in his latest book and something that has become reality.

One of the most meaningful tributes to Connie Knight came in the form of a Nike Air Diamond Turf sneaker. Sanders’ sixth release, the Air DT Max 96 “Love Letter to Connie,” was draped in a deep red symbolic of his respect for her. It was the first time a signature shoe carried the actual name of a player’s mother, cementing her legacy in sneaker history.

For Sanders, it’s not just about his own story but about uplifting others in similar circumstances. During the pep rally, he extended his message to all single mothers and fathers, urging society to offer them a “hand up” rather than letting them struggle alone.

The conversation coincided with BLK & Bold’s release of their 2025 Impact Report, which highlighted over $450k contributed to youth organizations nationwide. Sanders' partnership with the company is going strong and fits seamlessly with that mission, reinforcing his belief in helping to empower the next generation.

At every turn, Sanders reminds the world that behind the 'Prime Time' personality is tireless woman who raised a leader of men.