Formerly known as the USA Gymnastics Collegiate National Championships, the WCGNIC showcases top-tier talent from across the nation. Price, competing for the only HBCU gymnastics team in the field, stood tall against elite competition. She outpaced SEMO’s Taylor Ingle, who finished as the runner-up with a 39.225, and Bridgeport’s Abigail Kenney, who took third with a 38.95.

The HBCU star qualified for all four individual event finals with top-eight finishes across the board, further underscoring her dominance. But Price won’t be representing Fisk alone in the next round. Her teammate Aliyah Reed-Hammon delivered a breakout performance of her own, finishing in the top two on both vault and beam to secure spots in both event finals.

Price’s repeat performance is not just a personal triumph — it’s another powerful chapter in the growth of HBCU gymnastics. Since joining Fisk, she’s been a trailblazer for the sport at historically Black colleges and universities, proving that excellence knows no boundaries. Earlier this year she became the first gymnast from an HBCU to record a perfect score.

“I know that that a lot of little gymnasts, whether they’re a minority or not, look up to us because they see a whole team full of black and brown gymnasts doing the sport that they love, and it can show that you can also do (college gymnastics) as well, as long as you keep working hard and putting your mind to it,” she told Forbes after repeating as champion.

With both Price and Reed-Hammon advancing to the event finals, Fisk University is once again proving that HBCU programs can shine on the national stage in gymnastics. The duo’s success highlights the continuing evolution of a program that has broken barriers and redefined what’s possible in collegiate athletics.

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The recent news comes after Talladega College underwent a self-imposed legal audit to rectify its financial struggles, which included the university missing payroll, a decline in enrollment, and the private four-year institution tackling its deferred payments to vendors.

“We just saw a period where we sort of got off track from the thing that we have done historically,” said Talladega College interim president Walter M. Kimbrough during the school’s recent “State of the College” news conference last week. “The DNA is still there to me. We just got to get back and start being true to the DNA of Talladega College, and if we do that, we’ll be in a good situation.”

Bold Decision

In 2024, Talladega College’s operating budget was only $34 million. In September, Sara Weissman of Inside Higher Ed reported that enrollment decreased by 24% in recent years, the college faced a “significant” amount of debt, and issues with the school’s payroll delayed students’ receipt of financial aid refund checks.

Kimbrough and board chairwoman Rica-Lewis Payton made some “bold” decisions to improve the university’s financial trajectory. In February, the college announced that it was cutting its acrobatics, men’s volleyball, tumbling, men’s and women’s golf, and indoor track programs.

As a result, those cuts have allowed the school to save between $300,000 and $400,000 a month, according to WBRC-TV in Birmingham, Alabama. Kimbrough also stated that the college received a $15 million Hope Credit Union loan to strengthen its financial position and steer a more improved revenue model in the future.

“We have to trust but verify that accountability piece,” Lewis-Payton said, per WBRC-TV. “So, it’s not enough to just tell me; I need to see it. And we’re now putting into place those internal controls and accountability systems and processes.”

As the 157-year-old HBCU continues to progress financially, Kimbrough does not plan to raise tuition rates for students. However, if the rates increase in the future, he said the costs would remain cost-effective for students to earn an excellent education.

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Gibson announced via a post on his Instagram account on Wednesday that he was entering the transfer portal. He followed that with a post on Friday that he had committed to UNO with two years of eligibility remaining.

Gibson made a significant impact on Southern University at New Orleans’ (SUNO) basketball program as a freshman last season. Despite being a 26-year-old with no prior organized basketball experience, the 6-foot-8 forward became a dominant force in the NAIA.

Taking HBCU hoops by storm

In his debut season, Jamal Gibson averaged 21 points and 15.8 rebounds per game, leading the nation in total rebounds and setting multiple program records, including single-season points (579), rebounds (453), and double-doubles (27). Continuing his stellar play into the 2024-2025 season, Gibson maintained his dominance on the court. Notably, he secured his 43rd consecutive double-double with a 26-point, 20-rebound performance against Wilberforce University. His efforts were recognized with multiple conference and national honors. Gibson ended this season reclaiming his POY awards both on offense and defense.

Master P, the renowned New Orleans icon, was appointed President of Basketball Operations for UNO in February.

“As a kid growing up in New Orleans, I can honestly say that basketball changed and saved my life,” Miller stated. “At that time, UNO was one of the best programs in the country. It was all about Privateer Nation, and there was so much excitement on the Lakefront. As President of Basketball Operations, I am committed to bringing back that winning tradition to NOLA’s Team.”

Gibson will join a UNO squad that looks to improve on a dismal 4-27 record this past season.

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DALLAS [March 31, 2025] – The HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) proudly announces the addition of Huston-Tillotson University and Paul Quinn College as full members, effective July 1, 2025. Both institutions will transition from the Red River Conference, bringing the total membership of the HBCUAC to 15 schools. This expansion marks a significant step in the conference’s ongoing commitment to fostering competitive excellence and providing increased championship opportunities for its student-athletes.

“We are thrilled to welcome Huston-Tillotson University and Paul Quinn College to the HBCU Athletic Conference,” said HBCUAC Commissioner Kiki Baker Barnes, PhD. “Both institutions bring a rich tradition of athletic and academic excellence, and their addition strengthens our conference’s mission to elevate HBCU athletics while creating more opportunities for student-athletes to compete at the highest levels.”

Huston-Tillotson University offers a robust athletic program featuring men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, soccer, track and field, baseball, softball, and women’s volleyball. Paul Quinn College competes in men’s and women’s basketball, cross country, soccer, track and field, and women’s volleyball. Their inclusion not only enhances the level of competition within the conference but also paves the way for the addition of men’s and women’s soccer as official HBCUAC championship sports.

“Joining the HBCUAC is a game-changer for HT,” said Huston-Tillotson President Melva K. Wallace. “This move elevates our athletic program, increases our recruiting power, and places our student-athletes in a league where their talent and hard work will be seen and celebrated. It opens the door to stronger rivalries, greater exposure, and the kind of competitive excellence that builds champions on and off the field.”

“The Quinnite Nation is tremendously excited about joining the HBCUAC,” said Paul Quinn President Michael Sorrell. “We understood the conference’s value and appeal from day one and are grateful to have been invited to join. The opportunity to continue our friendly rivalries with Wiley and H-T, have our own streaming platform, and elevate our athletic programs on a national level represents the type of future we want for our students and community.”

With the addition of Huston-Tillotson University and Paul Quinn College, the HBCUAC continues its strategic growth, reinforcing its position as a premier conference for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The introduction of men’s and women’s soccer as championship sports reflects the league’s commitment to expanding athletic opportunities and increasing competitive equity among its member institutions.

Huston-Tillotson Notes

Location: Austin, Texas

Nickname: Rams

Previous Conference: Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC)

President: Dr. Melva K. Wallace

Athletic Director: Thomas Henderson

Number of Sports: Five men’s, six women’s

Huston-Tillotson was established in 1875 and is Austin’s first institution of higher learning

Affiliated with The United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ, and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). HT is a coeducational college of liberal arts and sciences, operating jointly under the auspices of the American Missionary Association of the United Church of Christ, and the Board of Education of The United Methodist Church. Huston-Tillotson College officially changed its name to Huston-Tillotson University on February 28, 2005.

Paul Quinn Notes

Location: Dallas, Texas

Nickname: Tigers

Previous Conference: Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC)

President: Dr. Michael J. Sorrel

Athletic Director: Brian Evans

Number of Sports: Four men’s, five women’s

Founded by the African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1872 in Austin. The college relocated to Dallas in 1990, taking over Bishop College, becoming the only HBCU in the Dallas area

For more information on the HBCU Athletic Conference and its member institutions, visit hbcuac.org.

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Dillard University Bleu Devils

The Dillard Bleu Devils secured their first NAIA tournament berth since 2018 by clinching the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) championship. In a thrilling final, Dillard edged out Philander Smith College with a last-second layup, sealing a 19-11 season record. Entering the tournament as the 15th seed in the Duer Quadrant, they are set to face William Woods University (Mo.), a team riding a 23-game winning streak and boasting a 28-2 record. This matchup presents a formidable challenge for Dillard as they aim to make a deep tournament run. 

Florida Memorial University Lions

The Florida Memorial Lions earned an at-large bid to the tournament after a strong 23-7 season. Despite falling short in the Sun Conference semifinals to eventual champions Ave Maria University, their performance throughout the season secured them the 9th seed in the Naismith Quadrant. They will face Friends University (Kan.) in the opening round, a team that finished as runners-up in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) championship. Florida Memorial’s consistent play and resilience position them well for a competitive tournament showing. 

Langston University Lions

Langston University, an HBCU powerhouse, continues its dominance with a third consecutive Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) tournament title, culminating in a 24-7 record. Their championship game showcased resilience, overcoming a late deficit to secure a 65-62 victory over Nelson University. Senior guard Mario McKinney’s clutch performance and Bryce Monroe’s tournament MVP honors highlight the team’s depth and experience. As the 4th seed in the Naismith Quadrant, Langston faces Saint Mary (Kan.), marking their return to the national tournament after a 12-year hiatus. Langston’s recent success and experience make them a team to watch in this year’s tournament. 

Stillman College Tigers

The Stillman Tigers return to the NAIA tournament for the first time since 2022, earning an at-large bid with an 18-11 record. Despite a semifinal loss in the HBCUAC tournament, their strong regular-season performance secured them the 16th seed in the Liston Quadrant. They are set to compete against LSU Alexandria, the Red River Athletic Conference champions with a formidable 28-2 record. This opening-round game presents a significant challenge for Stillman as they aim to advance further in the tournament. 

Xavier University of Louisiana Gold Rush

The Xavier Gold Rush continue their tradition of excellence with their fifth NAIA tournament appearance in six seasons, holding a 20-9 record. Despite an early exit in the Red River Athletic Conference tournament, their overall performance secured them the 14th seed in the Cramer Quadrant. They will face Ave Maria University (Fla.), the Sun Conference champions. Xavier’s experience and resilience make them a formidable opponent in the tournament. 

The inclusion of these five HBCU teams in the 2025 NAIA Men’s Basketball National Championship highlights the talent and competitiveness within HBCU athletics. As the tournament unfolds, these teams will not only represent their institutions but also the rich legacy of HBCU basketball on the national stage.

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Dillard University (18-7, 15-2) finished as regular season runner-up with a 15-2 record in HBCU Athletic Conference play. Their only setbacks were against Stillman and Tougaloo College. Cassidy Lowe is the star for the Lady Bleu Devils, averaging 16.7 points, 10.7 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game. She has won the last three HBCUAC Defensive Player of the Week awards. The Lady Bleu Devils will play in the quarterfinals at 2 p.m. on February 28 against the winner of No. 7 Rust College (11-15, 9-9) and No. 10 Southern University at New Orleans (8-18, 6-11), which plays at 4 p.m. Wednesday.

Tougaloo College (13-12, 10-7) earned third after a five-win improvement overall and winning four more games than last season in conference play. They went 6-4 against West Division Teams and were 6-2 at home. Makaila Brown won five HBCUAC Weekly Awards and earned NAIA Defensive Player of the Week. The Lady Bulldogs will play in the quarterfinals at 10 a.m. on February 28 against the winner of No. 6 Wiley University (12-13, 8-9) and No. 11 Wilberforce University (11-15, 6-12), which plays at noon on Wednesday.

Rounding out the higher seeds is No. 4 Philander Smith University (16-10, 9-8), which faces No. 13 University of the Virgin Islands (2-16, 2-15) in the opening round at noon on Tuesday. Dasia Turner is averaging 14.8 and 7.7 rebounds per game. No. 5 Fisk University (10-16, 10-8) takes on No. 12 Voorhees University (13-14, 5-13) in the opening round at 4 p.m. Tuesday. Jayla Bibbs and Keeli Burton-Oliver won multiple HBCUAC weekly honors.

The second automatic berth to the NAIA Women’s Basketball National Championship Opening Round will go to the tournament champion or the runner-up if Stillman advances to the championship game. Tickets are available to purchase online on the Tournament Central Page. All of the games will be streamed on the Urban Edge Network. Fans can download the free app to their streaming devices to watch their favorite HBCU teams from the conference.

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Corrinne Tarver is out as head coach, according to a release by the university. Assistant coach Nuriya Mack has been named the interim coach. 

Details of Tarver’s departure were not indicated in the release, but the university noted it will soon begin a national search for the next head coach. Tarver was the first black woman to win an NCAA championship.

“We thank Coach Tarver, who joined Fisk to lead the first HBCU women’s gymnastics program,” the release read. “Under coach Tarver and a partnership with Black Girls Gymnastics, a strong foundation for the gymnastics program was cultivated. Fisk looks forward to a continuation of excellence in academics, athletics, and gymnastics.”

Mack was hired by Tarver as Meet Director and Social Media Manager in 2023 for the program. She has contributed significantly to the team’s success. Nuriya brings a wealth of experience in coaching, athlete development, and event management to the role of interim head coach.

“I am thrilled to lead Fisk’s gymnastics team and continue building upon the team’s success,” Mack said. “It is an honor to guide these student-athletes and contribute to the program’s growth.”

Before joining Fisk, Nuriya served as Lead Coach and Program Director for GYSTARS Gymnastics, where she led competitive teams and directed events such as the Aloha from Memphis and Gymnastics Mobility Meet.

“Fisk has built a strong gymnastics program that has become a beacon of light for the university and young ladies nationwide. The future of Fisk University’s gymnastics program remains bright and dynamic. The university is poised to embrace new leadership and will continue to fervently support our young women who give their all in every competition,” said Valencia Jordan, Athletic Director at Fisk University.

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The junior gymnast scored a perfect 10 in the uneven bars — making her the first gymnast from an HBCU to record a perfect score. 

The meet took place in Philadelphia at Temple University. 

Morgan Price, born in Lebanon, Tennessee, in 2005, began her gymnastics journey at the age of two. She trained at Texas Dreams Gymnastics and was a standout at Coppell High School in Texas. Initially committing to the University of Arkansas, Price made a pivotal decision in 2022 to join Fisk University, contributing to the establishment of the first-ever gymnastics program at a historically Black college or university (HBCU). 

In her freshman year, Price’s exceptional talent was evident. She secured First-Team All-American honors at the 2023 USA Gymnastics Women’s Collegiate National Championships, placing third in the floor exercise and finishing in the top ten in the all-around category.

The following year, Price made history by becoming the first gymnast from an HBCU to win a national title. She clinched the all-around championship at the 2024 USA Gymnastics Women’s Collegiate National Championships with a score of 39.225. 

Beyond her athletic achievements, Price has embraced her role as an ambassador for Fisk University and HBCU gymnastics. She has been featured in national media, including an interview with Gayle King on CBS Mornings, where she discussed her commitment to representing and uplifting HBCUs in collegiate gymnastics. 

Saturday’s history-making performance was the latest, but it is unlikely to be her last. 

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“In making these tough decisions, it is essential to note that a feasibility study was not conducted before establishing these programs,” the school stated in a release. “The decision to establish these programs was made in the spirit of fostering a diverse and inclusive athletic environment. However, early on, such studies would have revealed that these programs were not sustainable under present institutional conditions.”

Less than a year ago, Talladega College was making strides in its first season as a program. Freshman Kyrstin Johnson won a national title in April only to see the program discontinued over the summer. She left the HBCU and is now competing at Temple University. 

“While the conclusion of these programs is difficult, we remain steadfast in our commitment to providing quality education and supporting all students in their endeavors,” the school release said. We extend our deepest gratitude to our athletes, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support and dedication throughout the programs’ history.”

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HBCU Gymnastics Legacy: From Fisk to Talladega

Fisk University holds the distinction of being the first HBCU to establish a gymnastics team, paving the way for increased representation in the sport. Talladega College followed as the second HBCU to sponsor a gymnastics program, providing opportunities for talented athletes like Johnson. However, Talladega’s program was recently shut down due to a lack of funding, underscoring the challenges HBCU athletic programs often face.

During her time at Talladega, Kyrstin Johnson excelled as a four-time First Team All-American and the 2023 USAG National Vault Champion. Her accomplishments cemented her status as one of the top gymnasts in collegiate competition and showcased the level of talent developed within HBCU programs.

Thriving at Temple University

At Temple, Johnson has brought the same determination that made her a star at Talladega. Her recent floor routine, paired with Kendrick Lamar’s anthem “Not Like Us”, captivated audiences online and demonstrated her ability to perform at the highest level. Now majoring in Biology, she balances academic rigor with her athletic career, embodying the values of perseverance and excellence.

Honoring and Advancing HBCU Gymnastics

The loss of Talladega’s gymnastics program is a blow to HBCU athletics, but athletes like Johnson continue to carry the legacy forward. By thriving at Temple, she ensures that the contributions of HBCU gymnastics programs remain recognized and celebrated.

Kristin Johnson’s journey highlights the significance of supporting and expanding gymnastics at HBCUs. Through her performances, she honors her roots while paving the way for future generations of Black gymnasts. Her story is a testament to the resilience of HBCU athletes and the lasting impact they have on the sport.

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Gibson burst onto the scene last season as a 6-8, 26-year-old freshman, immediately establishing himself as one of the most dominant players in NAIA HBCU basketball. He averaged an astonishing 21.5 points and 15.8 rebounds per game, earning widespread recognition and setting the stage for his historic run of double-doubles.

This season, Gibson has built on that incredible debut, averaging 20.2 points and 15.1 rebounds per game. His ability to deliver on both ends of the court has propelled the Knights to a five-game winning streak in conference play. Gibson’s rebounding totals, including a season-high 27 boards against Stillman, highlight his relentless pursuit of the ball, while his efficient scoring—including 70.6% shooting in Friday’s game—keeps defenses on their heels.

Consistency is what sets Gibson apart. Over the past two months, he has recorded at least 10 rebounds and 10 points in every outing, a feat that underscores his ability to rise to the occasion regardless of the opponent. Against some of the toughest competition in HBCU basketball, Gibson’s averages remain steady, proving he is a cornerstone for SUNO’s success.

Friday’s victory also marked another milestone for Gibson, bringing him to 938 career points in just 45 games. With the HBCUAC Crossover on the horizon, he’s poised to hit the 1,000-point mark—a testament to his scoring prowess and efficiency.

HBCU basketball thrives on players like Jamal Gibson, whose consistency and dedication embody the spirit of the game. As SUNO gears up for its next matchup against Rust College, all eyes will remain on Gibson to see if he can extend his record-breaking streak and continue leading the Knights in their quest for conference dominance.

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TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Stillman College announced a transformative $2 million gift to its endowment from Dr. Charles M. Stillman, the great-grandson of the HBCU founder, Reverend Charles Allen Stillman. This generous contribution marks a significant milestone in the college’s mission to ensure its long-term sustainability and to continue fostering excellence in education for generations to come.

The gift, which was presented as part of the Alabama Power Community Giving Reception, highlights the collaborative spirit of philanthropy and community investment in Stillman College’s future. By contributing to the endowment, Dr. Stillman and his wife, Susan, are helping to secure the institution’s financial foundation and ensure that it can continue to serve students for years to come.

“This remarkable gift from Dr. Charles M. Stillman and his wife not only honors the legacy of Rev. Charles A. Stillman but also propels the college toward a stronger and more sustainable future. As part of the funds raised during the Alabama Power Community Giving Reception, it reflects the collective commitment of individuals and organizations who believe in our mission to transform lives through education,” said Kimberly Woodard, Vice President of Institutional Advancement.

Stillman College President Dr. Yolanda W. Page also shared her gratitude for the Stillman family’s long-term giving to the institution, which was founded in 1876 by Dr. Charles Allen Stillman during his time as lead pastor at First Presbyterian Church of Tuscaloosa.

“We are deeply honored by this extraordinary demonstration of faith in Stillman College’s mission. Dr. Charles M. Stillman’s legacy is not only one of familial ties but also of visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the values upon which this institution was founded. This generous gift is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Stillman family and its belief in the power of education to transform lives,” Page said.

The $2 million donation will be strategically invested to ensure the principal remains intact while generating sustainable returns that will support scholarships, faculty development, academic programs, and campus improvements. The endowment’s growth will help Stillman College maintain its competitive edge and expand opportunities for HBCU students to thrive academically and professionally.

Dr. Charles M. Stillman expressed his enthusiasm for supporting the college’s mission: “Stillman College represents the ideals and aspirations my great-grandfather envisioned when he founded this institution nearly 150 years ago. My wife and I are honored to play a role in securing its future and ensuring that generations of students continue to benefit from the transformative power of a Stillman education.”

This historic gift exemplifies the enduring connection between the Stillman family and the HBCU that bears its name. Dr. Charles M. Stillman, who resides in Seattle, Washington, was a longtime member of the Stillman College Board of Trustees and two-term chairman of the board. The gift underscores the importance of endowment growth in preserving the college’s legacy and positioning it for continued success in the evolving landscape of higher education.

For more information about this gift or how to support Stillman College’s mission, contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at advancement@stillman.edu.

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AND1, the legendary basketball brand known for its iconic streetball culture and innovative performance gear, is proud to announce its partnership with Wilberforce University, the oldest historically Black private college and university (HBCU) in the United States owned and operated by African Americans.?This collaboration marks AND1’s first sponsorship of an HBCU athletic program, making it a historic moment for both the brand and the University.  

As part of this exciting partnership, AND1 descended upon the HBCU campus and provided the Wilberforce men’s and women’s basketball teams with a full suite of new gear, including uniforms, travel sweatsuits, practice apparel, travel bags, and even a professional photo shoot! 

Each team member received several pairs of AND1’s performance basketball shoes—the “Attack 3’s” and the “Mad Game” line. Furthermore,?AND1 designed a special Wilberforce player edition sneaker line that players will debut this season, highlighting the pride and spirit of the university. 

“I am incredibly excited about this sponsorship with AND1,” says Wilberforce Women’s Basketball Head Coach Rachel Naughton. “The AND1 sponsorship marks a historic moment for our men’s and women’s basketball program and not only for Wilberforce but for all HBCUs. This partnership signifies recognition of the talent and dedication of our athletes. With AND1’s support, we aim to elevate our program, inspire future generations, and demonstrate that women’s basketball deserves a prominent spotlight. We’re thrilled for what lies ahead!” 

A longtime fan of AND1, Naughton has followed the brand since its streetball inception, collecting mixtapes that are now cherished memorabilia of the streetball movement—a movement that brought amazing energy and creativity to the game. “With AND1 as our sponsor, we are not just receiving equipment; we are welcoming a brand that truly understands and celebrates the game of basketball and its cultural significance,” adds Naughton. 

AND1 Brand Director/ Head of Sports Marketing, Dexter Gordon, “We are honored to partner with Wilberforce University, a pioneer in education and a beacon of cultural heritage. When Coach Rachel Naughton proposed the sponsorship, she highlighted the numerous benefits of our partnership, and we were eager to embrace this opportunity. This collaboration allows us to support and uplift the student-athletes who represent the future of basketball.  Seeing the excitement on the students’ faces as they received their new gear was incredibly rewarding for our team. We look forward to a successful partnership and many great moments on and off the court.”? 

The students at Wilberforce University were thrilled to receive their new gear, expressing their excitement and gratitude for the high-quality equipment and the opportunity to represent their university with pride.? “I’ve never had a basketball shoot like that before for our team media day, and they truly made me feel like a star. Our team is incredibly thankful for the opportunity AND 1 has given us. Thank you so much!” “It was incredible,” says Dayania Johnson, a junior at Wilberforce, who was part of the photo shoot with her teammates. “AND 1 made us feel like superstars!” 

Wilberforce University President Newkirk stated that the partnership with AND1 not only enhances Wilberforce athletic programs but also aligns with the University’s mission to provide students with opportunities that foster growth and excellence. “We are thrilled to work with a brand that shares our values and commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders,” says President Newkirk 

Gordon adds that this partnership is a testament to AND1’s commitment to empower athletes at all levels and foster the growth of basketball within HBCU. “Together, Wilberforce University and AND1 will create a lasting impact on student-athletes and inspire future generations,” says Gordon. ? 

To commemorate this historic partnership, AND1 is producing film and photo content that will document the journey and highlight the impact of this collaboration on the Wilberforce community.? 

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Battle of The Border

In addition to The Conference Challenge, the Classic will host the Battle of the Border, which will showcase the Texas vs. Oklahoma rivalry as Langston University takes on Paul Quinn College. The event is capped off with a College and Career Fair, bringing community engagement alongside elite-level basketball. HBCU+, the leading platform for HBCU sports and culture, will be broadcasting the event live, giving fans nationwide access to all the excitement. 

First-Year Head Coach John A. Smith of Huston-Tillotson University stated, “It is such an honor to have our Huston-Tillotson young men participate in this basketball event featuring Historically Black Colleges and Universities with such prestigious tradition on and off the court. Having the HBCU Classic at the Austin Convention Center downtown is a win for fans, providing a centrally located venue that will draw more of a crowd for the student-athletes to perform. We are looking forward to giving our best effort and implementing a playing style to make our alumni and supporters proud as we build foundational blocks in my first year here at HT.” 

Huston-Tillotson Women’s Head Coach Kendall DuCree added, “It’s exciting and an honor to participate in this HBCU Classic. We are not only representing our families and Huston-Tillotson but also the city of Austin. We are looking forward to a great time and experience.”

Mario Davis, Special Initiatives Manager at the Austin Area Urban League, added, “We are thrilled to showcase the Huston-Tillotson Rams on such a prominent stage. This event is about more than basketball – it’s about community, tradition, and empowering our student-athletes both on and off the court. With HBCU+ as our broadcast partner, we’re excited to bring this celebration of HBCU sports to a national audience.” 

The HBCU Live Xperience Basketball Classic offers a unique opportunity for the Austin community to come together, celebrating the rich heritage and athletic excellence of HBCUs, while enjoying a dynamic weekend of basketball. 

About the Austin Area Urban League? 

Founded in 1977, the Austin Area Urban League is a nonprofit organization aimed at enriching the lives of citizens within the greater Central Texas Region. The Austin Area Urban League is one of more than 90 affiliates of the National Urban League providing direct services that impact and improve the lives of thousands in the Central Texas region. Aligning with the Empowerment pillars of the National Urban League, the Austin Area Urban League seeks to meet the needs of underserved populations in the Austin and Central Texas region by focusing on programming and services in the areas of Education and Youth Development, Workforce and Career Development, Health and Wellness, Housing and Community Development, and Justice and Advocacy.? ? 

To learn more about the Austin Urban League and how you can support their programming, visit www.aaul.org.? 

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LORMAN, Miss. – The Talladega College men’s basketball team, an HBCU in the NAIA division, has defeated Alcorn State University, a D1 HBCU in the SWAC, 68-67 in an exhibition game tonight in the closing seconds. The Tornadoes placed three players in double figures in scoring which helped them rally in the second half.

Talladega jumped out to an 11-1 lead in the first half before the Braves hit their first field goal of the game when it came off a three at 14:07 to make it a seven-point game. The Tornadoes responded when Lamont Sams hit a three with just over 13 and a half minutes remaining. With just over 10 minutes left in the half, Talladega used a 9-5 run to push its lead to 20-9, but the Braves chipped away cut the lead to single digits, and trailed, 22-13. Both teams traded points for almost seven minutes with the Tornadoes clinging to a one-point lead at 32-31 with 1:43 left. Alcorn State used a 5-2 run to take a 36-34 lead going into the locker room.

Coming out of the half, the Braves hit a three in less than 30 seconds to go up 39-34, but Arthur Williams answered with a jumper to cut the lead to three for Talladega College. Each team traded baskets for much of the second half with the Braves in front 47-46 with 14:00 left, but Michael Kinnard’s three at 12:56 put the Tornadoes back in front, 49-47. Alcorn State tied things up at 49 off a dunk and then took the lead off a jumper at 11:04. Talladega answered when Shaun Walker tied things at 51 and Jordan Brewer put the team in front 52-51 off a foul shot. The Braves used a 9-0 run to reclaim the lead and go up 60-52 with exactly seven minutes left in the game.  Talladega climbed back into it to find themselves tied at 66 with under 10 seconds left. Down 67-66 with seconds left, Tre Simmons hit back-to-back foul shots for the Tornadoes to give them the win with no time remaining on the clock.

Sams paced all Talladega players with 13 points while going 5-of-8 from the floor and 3-of-4 for three-point range. Teammates Brewer and Kinnard each finished with 11 points. Kinnard also went 3-of-4 from beyond the arc.

Walker led the Tornadoes on the glass as he grabbed 10 boards with seven of them coming on the defensive side.

Wilfred Campbell finished a team-high seven assists while tallying six points.

Talladega men’s basketball kicks off its conference season at home this Saturday at 2 pm against fellow NAIA HBCU Southern University at New Orleans.

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Tuscaloosa, AL — Visit Tuscaloosa has been awarded the bid to host the HBCU Athletic Conference Hope Credit Union Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships for the next two years, the conference office recently announced. The tournament will be held at Stillman College’s Birthright Alumni Hall with a six-day schedule of play from February 25 to March 2, 2025, and from February 24 to March 1, 2026. View the brackets here.

“Visit Tuscaloosa and Stillman College have been great partners and have helped elevate the championship experience for our men’s and women’s basketball tournaments,” said HBCUAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes. “Strategic partnerships like the one with Visit Tuscaloosa are critical to enhancing our brand, and having Stillman as the venue and member of our conference brings more awareness to the place ‘Where Winners Thrive.'”

Building on the success of the 2024 tournament, which marked the inaugural year of this partnership, the event has already proven to be a significant boost for the local economy, generating approximately $750,000 in economic impact. With the addition of three new schools to the conference, including Stillman College as the host, the tournament will feature 13 institutions in 24 total games during the six days. The impact is projected to approach $1 million in the upcoming years.

“Tuscaloosa is honored to continue our partnership with the HBCU Athletic Conference,” said Kelsey Rush, President & CEO of Visit Tuscaloosa. “While hosting this first-class championship experience will bring economic benefits to our community, it also aligns with our desire to partner with local organizations and institutions such as Stillman College to showcase our dynamic community.”

The decision to award the bid to Tuscaloosa reflects the city’s dedication to fostering a welcoming and vibrant environment for athletes, fans, and visitors alike. The Birthright Alumni Hall at Stillman College provides an excellent venue for high-caliber competition at the championships.

“After successfully hosting the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Basketball Championships in 2024, we are excited to extend our host bid and now be able to showcase our Stillman Tigers in the event as first-year members of the newly branded HBCU Athletic Conference,” said Terrance Whittle, Stillman College director of athletics. “Our community thrives on events that bring people together, and we are committed to offering an outstanding experience for all participants and spectators. We invite the Tuscaloosa community and West Alabama to join us in Birthright Alumni Hall throughout the tournament to experience a full week of competitive basketball.”

Visit Tuscaloosa is working closely with Stillman College and other local partners to ensure that the 2025 and 2026 championships will be memorable and impactful. The collaboration aims to showcase Tuscaloosa’s hospitality, enhance the visibility of HBCU athletics, and create lasting positive experiences for everyone involved. Community members wishing to volunteer or businesses looking to support can reach out to Visit Tuscaloosa at (205) 391-9200 or info@visittuscaloosa.com.

SCHEDULE OF PLAY

Tuesday, February 25 (Opening Round)

Game 1, 12 p.m. | Women #4 vs. #13

Game 2, 2 p.m. | Men #4 vs. #13

Game 3, 4 p.m. | Women #5 vs. #12

Game 4, 6 p.m. | Men #5 vs. #12

Wednesday, February 26 (Opening Round)

Game 5, 12 p.m. | Women #6 vs. #11

Game 6, 2 p.m. | Men #6 vs. #11

Game 7, 4 p.m. | Women #7 vs. #10

Game 8, 6 p.m. | Men #7 vs. #10

Thursday, February 28 (Opening Round)

Game 9, 12 p.m. | Women #8 vs. #9

Game 10, 2 p.m. | Men #8 vs. #9

Game 11, 4 p.m. | Women Game 1 Winner vs. Game 3 Winner

Game 12, 6 p.m. | Men Game 2 Winner vs. Game 4 Winner

Friday, February 28 (Quarterfinals)

Game 13, 10 a.m. | Women #1 vs. Game 9 Winner

Game 14, 12 p.m. | Men #1 vs. Game 10 Winner

Game 15, 2 p.m. | Women #2 vs. Game 7 Winner

Game 16, 4 p.m. | Men #2 vs. Game 8 Winner

Game 17, 6 p.m. | Women #3 vs. Game 5 Winner

Game 18, 8 p.m. | Men #3 vs. Game 6 Winner

Saturday, March 1 (Semifinals)
Women’s Games
1 p.m. | Game 11 Winner vs. Game 13 Winner
3 p.m. | Game 15 Winner vs. Game 17 Winner

Men’s Games
5 p.m. | Game 12 Winner vs. Game 14 Winner
7 p.m. | Game 16 Winner vs. Game 18 Winner

Championship Sunday, March 2
Women’s Final | 4 p.m.
Women’s Championship Ceremony | 6 p.m.

Men’s Final | 7 p.m.
Men’s Championship Ceremony | 9 p.m.

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Johnson is headed to Temple University to continue her career. She announced her decision on Monday.

“Next Chapter! Please to announce! I’m an Owl!!!” Johnson posted.

Johnson transferred to Temple following an announcement that the Talladega College gymnastics program was going to be shut down due to funding. The program was just the second HBCU program, coming in one season after the Fisk University squad. 

Kyrstin Johnson thrived in her first year, winning a national title in the vault at the USA Gymnastics Championships. As the first athlete to commit to Talladega’s inaugural gymnastics program, Johnson scored 9.8750, surpassing competitors from Texas Women’s University and Cornell.

Not only did Johnson achieve athletic success –  she also found personal growth and community. Reflecting on her time at Talladega, Johnson highlighted the supportive environment which allowed her the confidence to wear her natural hair.

“It’s something I just started. I feel like now that I’m at Talladega, I can actually be free to be myself,” Johnson told HBCU Gameday in April. “I felt like in J-O (junior olympics), I always had to pull my hair up or put it in a braids. I would see the other girls braiding each other’s hair, doing this, and I would be in the back struggling, trying to take off my bonnet, trying to lay down my edges, and try to make sure the part was straight in the back of my head. But now I can just do a wash and go. Let my hair out and flow and just do my thing out on the floor.”

Months later, however, Kyrstin Johnson has been forced to take her talents elsewhere as the second HBCU gymnastics program has been put on the shelf.

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The Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame, renowned for celebrating exceptional athletes across all sports, is now adding gymnastics to its honored fields, thanks to Morgan. With over 500 inductees to date, the Hall of Fame is about to get even more legendary.

“I’m honored to be inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame,” Morgan shared. “Sports and gymnastics are an essential part of my wellness commitment. It gives me a chance to speak about the importance of movement while being a role model for young girls who share my dream of success in gymnastics.”

Morgan’s story is about commitment, excellence, and HBCU pride. As she heads back to Nashville this weekend, she’s not just returning as a junior at Fisk University; she’s coming back as a two-time First Team All-American and the reigning USAG All-Around National Champion! By the way, Fisk University boasts the first HBCU gymnastics team in the country.

The black-tie event and silent auction will take place at the Omni Nashville. Morgan and other prominent figures such as Scott Hamilton, Chris Burke, Chris Johnson, and Pekka Rinne were recognized.

“Morgan’s induction isn’t just a win for her; it’s also a win for Fisk University, HBCUs, and aspiring gymnasts everywhere. Her accomplishment highlights the amazing talent emerging from HBCUs and motivates the next generation to strive for greatness, showing that no dream is too big to accomplish.”

Read more about Morgan Price winning the national title.

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Talladega College announced on Friday that it was disbanding its gymnastics program. Sunday morning, members of its team released a crowd funding attempt to keep the program alive. Its goal is $499,999.

The following message was posted with the link: 

The Talladega Gymnastics Team – The 2nd HBCU Gymnastics team in the country. The 1st in the state of Alabama. The HBCU with the most National Qualifiers in a year. The 1st HBCU to win a sanctioned NCAA competition. The 1st HBCU with a USAG National Event Title.

With one hour to prepare, the Talladega team was told that the announcement would go public that their team would be no more. Tears in their eyes and sadness in their hearts, they congratulated each other on their accomplishments given the short time that they had. 24 hours later, they decided they weren’t taking no for an answer!

This fundraiser was created to show the world that Dega Gym is here to stay and the community is behind them 100%. We know that our goal is daunting, but without it we will be forced to put our education and athletic careers on hold. It is too late for our team to find homes. More than the aforementioned, we wouldn’t want to if we could. We set forth on a journey to make history and we are not done yet!

We have until July 30, 2024 to show that the community wants to keep this program alive! Let’s unite to keep the dreams of these young women alive. Together, we can make a difference.

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Crutcher started his high school coaching career at Battle Ground Academy in 2013. He went on to coach at his alma mater Hunters Lane, then he had stops at Pearl-Cohn, John Early Middle School and Lebanon High School before finishing up at Whites Creek. Crutcher will officially take over on July 16. A press conference will take place on campus on July 22. 

Crutcher is replacing Kenny Anderson, the former NBA All-Star who resigned following the 2023-2024 season. The Nashville, TN-based HBCU was 33-79 in six seasons under Anderson. The Bulldogs went 14-16 overall, 10-8 in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference this past season. That was the best record during the Anderson era.

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The Alabama-based HBCU stated in a release that it doesn’t have the resources to continue the program. 

“While the decision to discontinue the gymnastics program was undoubtedly difficult, we remain incredibly proud of our gymnasts, coaches, and their remarkable achievements. Their dedication and resilience have set a high standard, and their legacy will continue to inspire, Talladega College Interim President Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough said.

“This strategic move is part of our broader vision to position Talladega College to be stronger and more vibrant on all levels, ensuring that we can continue to provide exceptional opportunities for our students,” he said.

Talladega College became the second HBCU program when it launched in 2023, coming on the heels of the inaugural one at Fisk University which piloted one year earlier. 

The program produced a national champion in its lone season. Freshman Kyrstin Johnson won the USGA national title in vault this spring. She talked about the impact that the HBCU had on her as a person as well as a gymnast. 

“It’s something I just started. I feel like now that I’m at Talladega, I can actually be free to be myself,” Johnson told HBCU Gameday. “I felt like in J-O (junior olympics), I always had to pull my hair up or put it in a braids. I would see the other girls braiding each other’s hair, doing this, and I would be in the back struggling, trying to take off my bonnet, trying to lay down my edges, and try to make sure the part was straight in the back of my head. But now I can just do a wash and go. Let my hair out and flow and just do my thing out on the floor.”

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It was not only a historic win as Stillman’s first NAIA tournament victory in program history, but the first-ever victory by a historical black college and university (HBCU) in the NAIA Softball Opening Round. Stillman (36-13) also matches its single-season program wins record set last year at 36.

“The girls were excited. When we finally got here yesterday, some of the nerves went away. I had a feeling we might start a little slow this morning, and we did, but it’s great to be here. Like we keep preaching, we’re not here to just play two games, and obviously, we’re not now,” said Joel Penfield, Stillman head coach.

Next up will be top-seeded, and NAIA No. 7, Jessup University (36-9) of Rocklin, California. The game will start Day 2 of the Opening Round at 1 p.m. Tuesday at William Carey University’s Joseph & Nancy Fail Field.

“We’re Stillman. It doesn’t matter who they are, we just have to go play our game. That’s the way we’ve always been,” Penfield said. “It’s going to be a fight. We’re looking forward to it.”

The Grenadiers put up a fight early Monday, scoring an unearned run off Tiger starter Lexi McCray in the second inning and an earned run in the third inning for a 2-0 lead. Cassi Roman and Erin Templeman collected an RBI.

Ivey Moerland led off the top of the third inning and dove into the first base bag to beat out Stillman’s first hit of the game, but the runner was left stranded. The Tigers’ first run did not come until the top of the fourth, when Anniston Jones drew a leadoff walk and scored on a Karli Davidson sac fly to left.

The Tigers’ bats came alive with three runs in the fifth and sixth innings.

Katelyn Lankford singled up the middle to start the fifth and was run for by Katelynn Madison. Lauren Haskins later beat out a one-out bunt single. A wild throw advanced both runners into scoring position to set up a sac squeeze by Jones to tie the game, 2-2. Haskins later scored when Bailie Seales scored on an error at third, followed by an RBI single by Madison Bubel to put the Tigers in front, 4-2.

IUS scratched back a run in the bottom of the fifth, on an Autumn Oehlstrom RBI single. McCray (16-5) exited the game in position for the win with only one earned run among three total allowed. She gave up five hits and three walks through 4.1 innings.

Stillman pushed across three more runs in the top of the sixth on a Haskins two-run double and RBI single by Jones. Haskins and Jones finished the game with two RBI apiece, while Haskins and Bubel each had two hits to lead the Tigers’ offense.

Jasmine Wade pitched the final 2.2 scoreless innings to shut down IUS, allowing only one hit for her third save.

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In 2018, the board of trustees of Edward Waters College made a bold move.  They unanimously chose a 37-year-old to lead the school.  While young in age, his experience was just what the doctor ordered for the small AME school on the north side of Jacksonville, Fla. New president Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. came in with experience in the hot key issues for HBCUs which are retention and fundraising.

His career is littered with experience from HBCUs, with varied levels of involvement.  He is a graduate of Albany State University, where he attained his undergraduate degree.  He is also a graduate of the University of Georgia where he earned his juris doctorate.  From there he became board certified in the state of Georgia.

Faison has a vast array of experience at HBCUs

His leadership journey started at Mississippi Valley State University, as Chief of Staff and later Vice President for Institutional Advancement and then to Virginia Union University as Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, and finally to Tuskegee as General Counsel and Vice President for External Affairs before being named President at Edward Waters in 2018.

He came to Edward Waters with a vision…to elevate the university through a combination of solid academic processes and athletics success.

“When we came to the institution in 2018, we began to chart our path comprehensively as an institution,” said Faison.  “From our perspective and conversations with our board and community, we felt we really had a potential niche in utilizing athletics to grow the brand of our institution to increase enrollment; using those revenues to help launch additional academic programs and grow the overall depth and breadth of the institution.”

EWU moved from NAIA to NCAA D-II in 2021

Things began to change in short order.  Led by Faison, Edward Waters would announce in 2021 that EWU was provisionally moving up to NCAA D-II in athletics.  It was the first time in the 155-year history of the school that it had participated at the NCAA level.  On the same day of the public announcement, it was revealed that the Tigers would rejoin the SIAC.  They were members previously in the conference from 1930-1935, before the conference migrated to D-II status in the NCAA.

In a grand announcement, the purple and orange had regained relevance on a national scale like never before.  Not discounting any of the successes of the school previously, but this was a major step into growth for both the athletic department and the university.

Long seen as the little school in Jacksonville, it began to stretch its wings and tiers began to be climbed.  A major renovation to the school’s on-campus football facility was a big piece of the turning point.  The turf field, new grandstands, new press box, and pristine president’s box where he entertains donors during football games grew an exciting game day environment.

In 2021, Faison made the choice to bring in Toriano Morgan to lead the Tiger football team.  Morgan would add well-known veteran coach Brian Jenkins to his staff as offensive coordinator.  The team had struggled mightily even on the NAIA level.  Being reintroduced to the SIAC and introduced to Division-II was a smooth transition for Morgan and his staff.

Academics-wise, the university made a leap in 2021 as well.  Edward Waters College became Edward Waters University.  It was a galactic leap for the school.  Since then, the school’s popularity has skyrocketed.  EWU is now the fastest-growing HBCU in the state of Florida and one of the fastest growing in the country.

Edward Waters football has been steadily building

In 2021 the Tiger football team would finish at 4-7, going 3-7 in conference play.  In 2022 the team saw marginal improvement and ended the season at 5-6, but more importantly 4-4 in SIAC play.  This was the indicator that the program was moving forward.  In 2023, the team had its first winning season in quite some time, going 6-4 for the season and 5-3 in SIAC play.  The two signature wins for the team in 2023 were the upset of Tuskegee at “The Shed” for its homecoming and an exciting last-play defeat of eventual SIAC runners-up Albany State in Jacksonville.

2024 could be a big year for EWU as its three-year probationary status as a member of the SIAC is to be evaluated.  It could result in the dropping of the provisional membership, adding them as a fully-authorized member in one of the big four HBCU conferences.  With the success of the programs and the growth in the image of the school, barring something unforeseen they are expected to be fully admitted.

Not only are the football facilities improving, the school has made a marked investment into its student-athletes.  Additionally, Faison is exceptionally proud of his director of athletics, whom he credits with forging the department forward.  

“I truly believe there has to be a symbiotic synergy between the president and the athletic director.  I selfishly believe I have the best associate vice president and director of athletics in the country here in Dr. Ivana Rich.  The job that she has done to come in and continue this vision…she has come and not only fit in, but taken things to a higher level,” Faison said.

The facilities upgrades at the school include a dedicated student-athlete academic center and a health and wellness center that has expanded the weight room, medical treatment apparatus, and contains a nutrition center.  Edward Waters is certainly in unchartered territory at the time and judging from Faison’s vision and drive, this is just the beginning.

“As we looked around geographically, we’re sitting right in the footprint within a five-hour radius of 90-percent of the institutions that are in the SIAC,” Faison said.  “We were in a good conference in the GCAC, but you didn’t get the same kind of HBCU experience that our students wanted, our alumni wanted, our city wanted.  It made a lot of sense for us, when you’ve got Savannah (GA) an hour-and-a-half away…we needed to make sure that our brand became synonymous with the brands of those institutions (in the SIAC).”  

HBCU Gameday is producing a special for each week in June called “Florida’s Four HBCUs,” where we sit down with each HBCU president in the state of Florida (B-CU, Edward Waters, Florida A&M, and Florida Memorial). Please be on the lookout for those broadcasts as you will hear more of the story from EWU President Dr. A. Zachary Faison.

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“I will enjoy my life, but I will miss everyone at @fiskuniversity ,I have been here for 5 years, and i truly love it,My daughter graduated from here ! I don ‘t know what else to say !!!,” Anderson wrote on X.

Fisk was 33-79 in six seasons under Anderson. The Bulldogs went 14-16 overall, 10-8 in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference this past season. That was the best record during the Anderson era.

“We appreciate (Anderson’s) contributions to the Fisk University men’s basketball team and wish him well in his future pursuits,” first-year Fisk athletic director Valencia Jordan said in a prepared statement.

The 53 year old Anderson played a total of 15 years in the NBA after being drafted second overall by the New Jersey Nets in 1991. He was an NBA All-Star with the Nets in 1994. Over the course of his career he ultimately played for nine different teams in the NBA. He began coaching HBCU basketball in 2018 when he accepted the job at Fisk.

During the time of Anderson’s hire there was a flux of former NBA players taking jobs at HBCU programs. Darrell Walker, Juan Dixon and George Lynch signaled some of the high profile hires.

At Georgia Tech he was a famed member of “Lethal Weapon 3” featuring himself, Dennis Scott and Brian Oliver.

Jordan said Fisk will conduct a nationwide search for a new coach.

“We are committed to finding a leader who will build upon the program’s foundation and achieve continued success on and off the court,” she said.

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“It’s different. Because in high school I was homeschooled – so I wasn’t really around people a lot,” Johnson said in an exclusive interview with HBCU Gameday. “I’ve always just been going to my house doing homework – then practice so it’s just like a routine like every day.”

Kyrstin Johnson is definitely making the adjustment look easy. The Baltimore, MD gymnast is the newly minted USAG national champion in the vault. Not bad for a first-year student at a first year program. But as we learned in our interview, Johnson is a fast learner. 

Self-taught, with inspiration

Johnson was always doing gymnastics – whether she was in a gym or not. She didn’t get active in the sport until she was 10 because her parents were dissuaded from getting her involved due to time and cost. But even at that age, she had a passion for the sport that could not be ignored. 

“Before starting gymnastics, I was self-taught,” she said. “I was flipping everywhere. So it couldn’t have been ignored. So I’m glad to be where I am. It’s a blessing.”

Eventually, her parents gave in and her path to becoming a national champion was there. Despite growing up in the Baltimore area, she says she didn’t have a lot of black role models around her, so Gabby Douglas and Trinity Thomas became her inspirations. Attending an HBCU was something Johnson says she wasn’t sure would happen because when she started high school there were no HBCUs.

Then came Fisk University, which began competing in 2023. Johnson was initially verbally committed there. But then Talladega College announced it would be fielding a program and Johnson felt that it would be a better academic fit for her needs. So she became the first gymnast to commit to TC. 

In addition to having a place to compete in gymnastics with people who look like her and having academic programs that fit her goal to be a veterinarian, she has also found community at Talladega. 

“Now I’m always surrounded by people getting to know people it’s like a family,” Johnson said. “Plus I’m loving the band and watching the fraternities, and sororities.”

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She was asked by Gayle King why she chose to come to Fisk University when she had an offer from Arkansas, she didn’t hesitate to answer. 

“I’ve always wanted to go to an HBCU because I know that back then, African-Americans weren’t even allowed to go to the same schools as white people,” Price said matter-of-factly in her Fisk University sweatshirt.  “So I just feel like it’s an honor and kind of living out my legacy and being able to show able to show my talents and do it at an HBCU is so honoring to me.”

Yes, but why not go to a more established program, Gayle King asked?  

“I knew I would also be making history,” she said. “I was like well – might as well just make history no matter what happens.”

Despite her amazing recent achievement, Price spent most of her time on national TV talking about others.

Price acknowledged she came from an athletic family. Her late father, Chris, was a baseball player with the Kansas City Royals. Her mother, Marsha, was a cheerleader at Vanderbilt. 

“She is a widow and she had to raise all three girls by herself – and my brother,” Morgan said, with her mother beaming from the side of the stage. “So just to see her…she’s a very hard-working mom. She has taught me everything that I know today, so I’m just thankful for her.”

She also spoke about how it felt to have a head coach in Corrine Tarver who was the first black woman to win a national title in the “all-around” event she won last week. 

“I thought it was honoring also just to have an African-American coach,” Price said. “Because I’ve never had an African-American coach ever and I’ve done the sport since I was two years old.”

Not only did Morgan Price experience a lack of black coaches as a young gymnast – she also lacked black teammates outside her sisters. Now, Price says, she has a team full of young ladies whom she can connect with on a more intimate level. 

“Now it’s like I have a team full of African-American and Latina girls so it’s like I can always call on someone to do either my hair, my toes, my lashes – literally anything,” Price said. “I know my teammates can do it for me.”

Price revealed that her ultimate goal isn’t to compete for the Olympics.

“My ultimate goal is to win another title – and to be an HBCU gymnastics coach,” Price said. 

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Johnson posted the highest score of the day on vault, a 9.8750, to take the title ahead of Texas Women’s University’s Kaitlyn Hoiland and Cornell’s Sydney Beers, who tied for second (9.8250). She joined Fisk University’s Morgan Price, just a sophomore herself, as historic first national champions to come from the HBCU ranks. 

“I could not have asked or even dreamed of this type of season,” Johnson tweeted on X after her victory. “I’M ONLY A FRESHIE!!!”

Finishing behind gold medalist Maggie Slife of Air Force (9.900), Johnson also tied with Gayla Griswold of Lindenwood for silver on floor exercise with a 9.8625. She was named first-team All-American on the floor exercise, balance beam and vault. 

Kyrstin Johnson was one of several Talladga gymnasts who achieved All-American status. Alexa Chuy received first-team status in the all-around and second-team status in the floor exercise. Alondra Maldonado received first-team honors on the balance beam and Kiora Peart-Williams received the same honors on the vault.

Not bad for a first-year program and just the second in HBCU history. 

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History was made at Hollinger Fieldhouse in West Chester, PA on Friday night.

Morgan Price arrived at Fisk in the fall of 2022 with much fanfare as she was a part of the inaugural squad of gymnasts at the Nashville, TN squad that would become the first in HBCU history. Price was a highly-decorated prospect who had initially committed to Arkansas, where her sister competed as well. But with the news that Fisk University was putting together an HBCU squad, she chose to take the road less traveled. 

Price has been a star on the mat since the day she arrived, and garnered a lot of attention. Her coach, Corrinne Tarver, told HBCU Gameday in 2023 that she has taken on an ambassador role for the team and her university. 

“I think that’s the best part about Morgan is – she’s incredible,” Tarver said. “Even though she’s scoring well, she’s up there and everyone wants to interview her and she’s just kind of that face – I guess you can say to some extent  – of Fisk.”

“I mean, I think we have a lot of faces, but Morgan is definitely one of them. But she’s really humble and she’s out there for her team. That’s what she cares about, is helping her teammates, helping this program to grow and get better.”

And now, Price has a national championship in her back pocket. But she also has the chance for more hardware. She will compete on Vault, Bars & Floor on Sunday, April 14 in the Individual Event Finals.

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The 2024 NAIA Tournament brackets are out and several HBCUs are amongst the field.

Langston University (30-1 overall) got the number one seed in the Duer Quadrant. The back-to-back SAC champions will take on no. 16 seed Bellevue (Neb.) as the host team.

Located in the same bracket is Tougaloo (MS) College. The regular season champion of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) picked up a no. 10 seed after being upset in its conference tournament. It will face off against no. 7 seed Tennessee Southern in Marion, IN.

Florida Memorial University picked up a No. 2 seed in the Naismith Bracket. The Sun Conference champion will take on no. 15 Evangel of Missouri.

Texas College picked up a no. 9 seed in the Cramer Quadrant. It will face off against no. 8 Point Park (PA) in Henderson, Tennessee. 

Philander Smith picked up a no. 15 seed after winning the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference title. It will take on Cumberlands, the no. 2 seed and the host team in the first and second rounds. 

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Stillman Athletics Returns to its Roots
Stillman College’s move to the GCAC is a return to an HBCU conference after previously competing off-and-on in the NCAA’s historical black Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) from 1978-2016. Stillman returned to its NAIA athletics origins in 2016 and has competed in the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) from 2018 through the end of the current 2023-24 season.

Director of Athletics Terrance Whittle said the Tigers are excited to join the GCAC as its newest member in the 2024-25 academic year.    

“The move marks a historical moment in the life of Stillman College as we are glad to be joining the only HBCU conference in the NAIA. We believe our athletics footprint, geographical location, institutional values, academic standards, and historical lineage align with the GCAC standards,” said Whittle, who is also the head baseball coach. “We look forward to Stillman’s championship programs reigniting past conference rivalries and creating new rivalries. We want to thank the Council of Presidents and Commissioner Dr. Baker Barnes for the opportunity to join this historical conference as we continue to uplift and educate our communities and our students.”

Fielding 11 intercollegiate athletics teams, Stillman College’s addition to the GCAC, along with Voorhees, furthers the GCAC’s goal to add softball as a championship sport in 2025. Stillman will also become the first GCAC member to field bowling programs.

The Tigers’ return to the NAIA in 2016 has been fruitful, with eight NAIA postseason appearances and more than a dozen individual or team conference championships across the department since 2018. Through Stillman College’s more than 60 years of athletics history, the Tigers have produced more than 20 conference team championships across four sports, numerous individual conference track & field titles, and 30 national tournament appearances across five sports. National championships have been won by individuals in men’s outdoor track and field, and men’s basketball was declared the 2021 HBCU Small College National Champion. Four sports programs have had student-athletes become professional athletes, including 2016 Olympic Gold Medalist Jeff Henderson (track & field).

The move to the GCAC is a return to conference rivalries with former SIAC opponents Rust College and Fisk University from the 1970s-80s, in addition to former NAIA rivalries from the 1960s against Dillard University, Philander Smith University, Talladega College and Tougaloo College. Talladega and Stillman both competed in the SSAC in 2022-23.

A New Partnership
With the entry into the GCAC comes great fanfare as Stillman College has been selected as the host site of the GCAC 2024 Hope Credit Union Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships in early 2024. The tournament is the collaboration between the college and Visit Tuscaloosa, the local tourism destination marketing organization.    

“We are excited for Stillman College, as well as our executive director of sports, Stan Adams, on the announcement of the 2024 GCAC Basketball Championships,” said Kelsey Rush, president and CEO of Visit Tuscaloosa, a destination marketing organization. “Together, they successfully demonstrated why Tuscaloosa is a premier location for this tournament and we hope it is the beginning of a long-standing relationship.  We look forward to welcoming players and fans to our community as we deliver an elite-level tournament experience.”

Page agreed that the partnership between Stillman College and Visit Tuscaloosa has been a welcomed one.

“When I arrived in Tuscaloosa three months ago, I stated that Stillman would be a contributing member of the Tuscaloosa community,” Page said. “Being a co-sponsor of this conference tournament demonstrates that Stillman is poised to impact the city’s economy positively. I sincerely hope the Tuscaloosa community will support the tournament.”

Rush estimates the economic impact on the Tuscaloosa community to be in the neighborhood of $750,000.

As part of the championship experience, the GCAC will host its HBCU Admission Fair on Stillman’s campus, giving students from the area the opportunity to learn about HBCU culture, academics, and athletics. Students will also receive admission into the tournament the day(s) of the fair.

“Bringing on Stillman as a new member in 2024 and having them partner as a host for the 2024 tournament allows us to lay strong foundations in the communities we hold our championships,” said Baker Barnes. “Our HBCU Admission Fair brings every school to our championship and gives youth the opportunity to explore the possibilities of their future,” Baker Barnes continued. “Hosting a championship in Tuscaloosa also provides the community with an up-close view on our culture while impacting the local economy. Our schools and fans come to town and patronize stores, restaurants, hotels and other attractions. It’s more than athletics. It’s about connecting with and uplifting our communities.”

The GCAC Hope Credit Union Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships will also be broadcast on HBCU+, the livestream platform of the GCAC’s media rights partner Urban Edge Network. The broadcasts raked in over three-quarters of a million views during the 2023 championships, highlighted by back-to-back one-point title games on both the women’s and men’s sides.

“The GCAC continues to rise and create an atmosphere of excellence at all of our events,” stated Baker Barnes. “The success of our championships is due to having strong partners like Visit Tuscaloosa and our member schools. I want to thank Kelsey and the Visit Tuscaloosa team for bidding to be one of our partners and create another memorable experience for our members and fans.”

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“The landscape of athletics is changing, and we are working hard to stay ahead of the curve,” said GCAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes. “I want to thank President Hopkins for his visionary leadership and desire to join hands to create a greater impact within the HBCU space. We are just scratching the surface of what our conference is doing to grow and expand, and I’m elated to have Voorhees as one of our members.”

Founded in 1897, Voorhees University has a rich history of academic excellence and a proud tradition of athletics. The decision to join the GCAC underscores Voorhees’ commitment to providing its student-athletes with a competitive and enriching collegiate experience within the realm of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

Dr. Ronnie Hopkins, President of Voorhees University, says his institution has taken a step to advance the nation’s first HBCU founded by an African-American woman, Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, to the next level of excellence. “Voorhees University is honored and thrilled to join the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference, recognized as one of the most progressive conferences in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). We believe this move not only enhances the conference’s geographic diversity but also creates new avenues for collaboration and competition. We look forward to fostering meaningful relationships with our fellow member institutions and furthering the GCAC’s mission of developing student-athletes academically, athletically, and personally.”

The Gulf Coast Athletic Conference, recognized as one of the most progressive conferences in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), is comprised solely of HBCUs. This expansion comes shortly after the recent approval of Wilberforce University (Ohio) as another distinguished member of the GCAC, further solidifying the conference’s commitment to growth and excellence.

Voorhees University’s addition to the GCAC not only enhances the conference’s geographic diversity but also brings new opportunities for collaboration and competition. The move will foster meaningful relationships between Voorhees and the existing member institutions while promoting the GCAC’s mission of advancing the development of student-athletes academically, athletically, and personally.

Charlene Johnson, Voorhees University Vice President for Student Affairs and Director of Athletics has been intentional about engaging Voorhees with other HBCUs, athletically and academically. “The Gulf Coast Athletic Conference has a long-standing commitment to nurturing well-rounded student-athletes who excel both on and off the field. Voorhees University shares these core values, making this partnership a natural fit. We are excited about the opportunities this membership brings and the chance to contribute to the GCAC’s tradition of excellence. Voorhees University is poised to embrace the exciting opportunities that lie ahead and continue our journey of excellence.”

The Gulf Coast Athletic Conference takes pride in its dedication to nurturing well-rounded student-athletes who excel both on and off the field. Voorhees University’s core values align seamlessly with those of the GCAC, making this partnership a natural fit.

The addition of Voorhees University, and the recent announcement of Wilberforce University, to the GCAC signifies a bold step toward shaping the future of HBCU athletics within the NAIA. The GCAC is poised to continue its tradition of excellence while embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

For more information about Voorhees University visit voorhees.edu.

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“We are elated to have Wilberforce in our conference,” said GCAC Commissioner Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes. “Adding members strengthens our ability to execute every aspect of our strategic plan and own the narrative of HBCU excellence.”

As the only Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) conference within the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), the GCAC represents a vibrant community of like-minded institutions committed to empowering student-athletes through exceptional educational experiences.

Wilberforce University President Vann R. Newkirk expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Currently, Wilberforce University has few regional rivalries. This impacts fan interest and the ability of the University to garner the interest of students. Joining an all-HBCU conference allows graduates of the institution to rekindle relations with schools that the University historically had rivalries. It also allows us to tap into regional HBCU alumni bases and thus increase our ability to earn a few dollars to support our athletic programs. Finally, for our students, it allows them to participate against similarly funded programs and to attend games against familiar teams.”

Under the visionary leadership of Dr. KiKi Baker Barnes, the first Black woman commissioner, the GCAC has undergone a remarkable revival and expansion, growing from six in 2021 to ten members in 2023. This growth has solidified the conference’s standing as a beacon of excellence, fostering a nurturing environment that embraces diversity, inclusivity, and high achievement.

 “We don’t expect to earn millions like the big schools, but we know that at our level every penny counts, and running an athletic program is a business,” stated President Newkirk. “This move will energize our alumni base which in turn will help us to increase attendance and overall interest in the University.”

Wilberforce University, founded in 1856, is the nation’s oldest, private, historically black University owned and operated by African Americans. By joining the GCAC, Wilberforce University will engage in spirited competition against other exceptional HBCUs, further showcasing the remarkable talent and resilience of its student-athletes. 

“We are excited about being a part of the GCAC,” said Wilberforce Director of Athletics John Hill. “Wilberforce has excellence, and joining the GCAC gives us the opportunity to display that. We are building on a multitude of levels and this energy is one of those levels. We want to engage further and this is a way to bridge the gap between the university and the community.”

As Wilberforce University joins the GCAC, a new chapter of excellence is poised to unfold. This partnership promises to bring forth an array of exciting athletic competitions, foster academic growth, and empower student-athletes to reach their full potential, both on and off the field.

For more information about Bulldogs Athletics, visit wilberforcebulldogs.com. To learn more about the GCAC, visit gcaconf.com.

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Former Florida State star and NFL quarterback Danny Kanell took issue with Sanders saying that he wasn’t a ‘Nole, noting that he graduated from Talladega College. 

“Wow,” Kanell tweeted in response to a video of Sanders answering the question. “The lack of respect for the school that gave him his start is wild. The same school that retired his jersey. The same school that let him be Prime. There is a way to handle this question and this ain’t it.”

Sanders took the time to address Kannell on Twitter. 

“My man ain’t Nobody let me be me! I was Him and still is,” Sanders tweeted. “Your jersey only get retired if you’re a Dogg and 1 of the greatest ever and I was. Ain’t nobody give me nothing, I took it and earned it. Stay out of Grown folks business u have no idea what is what. The Truth hurts my man. I got time!”

The former Jackson State head football coach famously played his college football at Tallahasee’s non-HBCU in the 1980s, playing under the legendary Bobby Bowden before embarking on NFL and MLB careers and becoming a household name. Over the years he has represented Florida State in media and even in recruiting battles. But he never got his degree from Florida State, where he reportedly wanted to take over as head football coach. 

Instead, Sanders got his degree from Talladega College, a small private HBCU in Alabama. He then went on to become a head coach at Jackson State, leading that program to back-to-back SWAC titles before taking over as head coach at Colorado. 

Deion Sanders downplaying his affiliation with Florida State and claiming Talladega received blowback from a lot of Florida State fans, but clearly he’s made his proclamation and he’s not

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An on-site reporter decided to interject with a statement rather than a question.

“I’ve got to check you, though, because those Hall of Famers were all Hurricanes like myself – and you’re a ‘Nole my friend.”

Deion Sanders stopped her and asked if anyone knew where he graduated from. Another media member responded correctly that he had graduated from Talladega College.

“I graduated from an HBCU, so I’m still a who?” Sanders shot back at the reporter.

“But you’re still a ‘Nole?” She retorted.

“So I’m a who?” Sanders said with a laugh. “I’m a who? I thought it was where you graduated from, isn’t it.”

Sanders graduated from Talladega College in August of 2020 – just before taking the head coaching job at Jackson State.

“Why do you keep calling me that instead of where I graduated from,” Sanders said. I’m an HBCU grad.”

Sanders went on to explain that both Sapp and Irvin are from Florida just like him and that their ties are deeper than where they played college football. But he made sure to clarify where he got his degree from.

“Talladega,” Sanders said before leaving the platform. “That’s where I graduated from.”

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This concert also featured numerous artists like EGOT holder Jennifer Hudson, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Ledisi, Maverick City Music, and the list goes on.

But before diving into the rest of the article, let’s pause for a quick history lesson.

What is Juneteenth?

June 19 commemorates the emancipation of all enslaved African Americans in the United States, specifically in Galveston, TX. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that all slaves in Confederate territories were to be freed. However, not everyone heard the news.

Two years later, on June 19, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that the enslaved people there were finally free; well they were already ready free but like I said before it took them a while to get the notice. But better late than never.

In light of the grand holiday, President Biden and the First Lady hosted their Juneteenth Concert at the White House on Tuesday, June 13. This concert featured numerous artists like EGOT holder Jennifer Hudson, Cliff “Method Man” Smith, Ledisi, Maverick City Music, and the list goes on.

But most importantly, four HBCUs took over the South Lawn to perform and celebrate Juneteenth. Fisk Jubilee Singers, Hampton University Concert Choir, The Magnificent Marching Machine from Morgran State, and Tennessee State’s Aristocrat of Bands all put on a show.

Fisk Jubilee Singers and Aristocrat of Bands

These two-Tennessee HBCUs are known for making a statement wherever they go. Originally formed in 1871, the Fisk Jubilee Singers utilize their harmonic voices to sing Negro Spirituals across the globe. The Grammy-winning group includes vocal artists and students at Fisk University.

The Fisk Jubilee Singers broke racial barriers in the late 19th century, and entertained royalty in Europe while raising funds for their school. They were featured in a PBS documentary in 1999 and made history with a journey to Ghana in 2007. One of their most notable accomplishments was in 2008; receiving the National Medal of Arts from President George W. Bush.

Fresh from its performance at CMF Fest, Tennessee State’s Aristocrat of Bands packed up again for Washington, DC. This isn’t the first time the band performed at the White House. Back in 2016, the Grammy-winning marching band was invited by former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama.

This band created history by becoming the first-ever marching band to grace the stage at the renowned Grand Ole Opry.

In a press release from Tennesse State, assistant band director Larry Jenkins said that these moments will be cherished forever by the students and band members.

“From CMA fest to going to the White House, it is out of this world when it comes to the impact this makes nationally and internationally,” Jenkins said. “This gives the students the opportunity to literally make history and have something else to put on their resumes, make connections, and represent the university at the highest level.”

The Magnificent Marching Machine

These past few years, Morgan State’s Magnificent Marching Machine has performed showcased its talents in various high-profile events recently. Aside from its performance for the President, this 152-member band was seen at the 93rd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the 2022 NBA HBCU Classic, and the 2023 Honda Battle of the Bands.

In an interview from The Baltimore Banner, drum major Travis Jones said performing in the Juneteenth concert was another opportunity for HBCUs to be presented to the world one more time. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase the band and to showcase Morgan State’s talent,” said Travis Jones. “Before all this attention, HBCUs weren’t getting the light they deserve until bad things happened. But now, we can reflect and look at all the good things that have happened.”

Hampton University Concert Choir

The Hampton University Concert Choir has earned a well-deserved reputation for its remarkable vocal abilities and captivating performances. With a focus on choral masterworks by renowned American composers, they have established themselves as a distinguished ensemble.

In an article for Hampton University, choir director Omar Dickenson was over the moon about the opportunity to perform in front of President Biden. “This performance not only represents a significant milestone in our journey but also symbolizes the power of music to bring people together, celebrate our shared culture, and honor the rich contributions of the Black community,” said Dickenson. “We are deeply thankful to the President and First Lady for their recognition of the importance of Juneteenth and Black Music Month. We eagerly anticipate delivering a soul-stirring and unforgettable performance that will resonate with audiences, inspire unity, and leave a lasting impact on this momentous occasion.”

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Funded by a $3 million contribution from Roland G. Parrish, a Dallas, TX philanthropist and businessman. This center is a two-story building with a total area of 10,605 square feet.

Through his company, Parrish Restaurants Ltd., the CEO owns 25 McDonalds in Dallas and surrounding areas. In 2021 and 2022, Parrish Restaurant Ltd. was the Dallas Business Journal’s, second largest Black-owned firm in North Texas.

“Fisk is a winning team. To me, it’s the same positive vibe you get from an athletic team being successful. Here we have a mix of an educational institution and business-savvy individuals who’ve come together to create a win-win situation for the university,” Parrish said. 

In an interview with Nashville Business Journal Parrish said as he visited Fisk University, it was the school’s leadership that ignited his wanting to be a part of the team pushing Fisk’s growth. “Fisk is a winning team. To me, it’s the same positive vibe you get from an athletic team being successful. Here we have a mix of an educational institution and business-savvy individuals who’ve come together to create a win-win situation for the university,” Parrish said.

For Fisk, the Center for career planning and Development provides tailored career guidance, resources, and pragmatic services to enhance students’ competitiveness in the job market by equipping them with the essential skills.

This new building is just the tip of the iceberg for Fisk; the university is planning to add multiple additions to the campus.

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Three members of the team – Morgan Price, Liberty Mora, and Zyia Coleman – were named First-Team All-American gymnasts this weekend at the 2023 USA Gymnastics Women’s Collegiate National Championships in Denton, Texas.

Price, a freshman who turned down an SEC scholarship, finished her freshman season in spectacular fashion. Her near-perfect score of 9.9 led the semifinal round. She tied Texas Woman’s University’s Alixandra Pierce for third place with a score of 9.850. She also placed in the top 10 in the all-around, scoring 39.125.

Mora, a freshman from McKinney Texas, finished in a three-way tie for third place on the balance beam with Madison Rush (Lindenwood) and Emily Six (Texas Woman’s) with a score of 9.838.

Atlanta native Zyia Coleman finished 13th in the floor exercise with a score of 9.6.

The Fisk University Gymnastics squad competed this year as the only HBCU gymnastics team. But when the next season starts it will be joined by Talladega College, as the Alabama School announced it will be fielding a team in 2024. 

For now, though, it appears gymnastics at HBCUs is off to a very promising start.

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The Fisk University gymnastics team has qualified for the 2023 USA Gymnastics Collegiate Women’s Championships. The qualifiers from the Fisk Women’s Gymnastics team will feature Morgan Price (FR/Lebanon, TN), Aliyah Reed-Hammon (FR/Milwaukee, WI), Kiara Richmon (SO/Atlanta, GA), Liberty Mora (FR/Mckinney, TX ), and Zyia Coleman (FR/Atlanta, GA). The Lady Gymdogs will compete in the national championship from April 6-8, 2023, at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Texas.

The eight teams participating in the championship have been announced, with Lindenwood University taking the top seed. Host Texas Woman’s University is the reigning national champion and enters as the second seed. The teams’ seeding is determined by their overall National Qualifying Score (NQS).

Fisk Gymdogs will begin competition on April 6, with the first session featuring Lindenwood, Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU), Air Force, and Brown. In Session Two, Texas Woman’s University, Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO), Yale, and West Chester will compete. Along with the team competition, individual qualifiers from USA Gymnastics member schools will also be vying for individual national championship titles.

In a recent interview discussing the team’s upcoming documentary, Fisk University Executive Vice President Jens Frederiksen said that the Lady Gymdogs is a representation of Fisk’s efforts in social justice and impact. “Fisk University has always been at the forefront of social justice and impact from W.E.B DuBois, to Diane Nash, and Nikki Giovanni. This remarkable gymnastics team continues this unique legacy by paving the way for the next generation of HBCU athletics and Black gymnasts.”

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Grant’s incredible 19-year playing career is only matched by his impressive business success post-retirement. His many ventures span everything from sports broadcasting to real estate and the launch of a private equity mezzanine fund: Penta Capital. From his time at Duke University, Grant has been a global household name and his competitiveness, perseverance, and commitment to community and family has been nothing short of exemplary. A true believer in community investment, Grant’s contributions to charity work, academic scholarships, and national initiatives for healthier lifestyles have consistently demonstrated his servant heart. This spirit of servant leadership is profoundly aligned with Fisk’s unprecedented legacy of social justice and dedication to a better future.

Grant Hill is married to six-time Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Tamia and they are the loving parents of two daughters. Together, they created the Grant Hill and Tamia Foundation where they continue to be recognized for their philanthropic leadership. Grant and Tamia have solidified their lasting relationship with a mission statement through their family brand — the Hill Brand — which stands for intelligence, integrity, character, leadership, triumph over adversity, grace, charisma, family, success, credibility, and likeability. 

Finally, Grant Hill is one of the world’s premier collectors of African American art with the aim of drawing attention to this deeply underappreciated facet of the artistic canon. Between their mission, their love of music and the arts, and a commitment to leadership and success, Grant and Tamia are deeply aligned with the brand of excellence that has defined Fisk University’s liberal arts education for more than 155 years.

Like everyone else, Grant has followed the amazing upswing at Fisk and the University’s unprecedented enrollment growth, record-breaking student outcomes, and new buildings.

“Fisk’s contributions to the fabric of American life are unparalleled and the future looks exciting,” said Grant. “I look forward to meeting the outstanding students and am honored to serve as this year’s commencement speaker.”  

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The Fisk Lady Gymdogs won their first home match against Greenville University with a score of 190.575 to 183.875. The match took place at Belmont University and was attended by more than 1200 fans. Freshman Morgan Price (FR/Lebanon, TN) was the star of the night, taking first place in the all-around with a score of 39.175.

Price also dominated on the vault with a score of 9.875, followed closely by Aliyah Reed-Hammon (FR/Milwaukee, WI) with 9.700. On the bars, Price led the night with a score of 9.950, followed by Kiara Richmon (SO/Atlanta, GA) with 9.775. Freshman Liberty Mora (FR/Mckinney, TX ) took the top score on the beam for Fisk with 9.775, followed closely by Reed-Hammon with 9.675.

Morgan Price finished the night strong with a standout performance on the floor routine and a score of 9.875. This win was particularly significant for the first-year Fisk Lady Gymdogs, who closed out their first year with a historic win showing to be a force. The team will now head to USA Gymnastics Nationals in Denton, Texas on April 6th.

Price and the Fisk Lady Gymdogs are proving that HBCUs deserve a space on the college gymnast mat.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — In a game where 6-seed Tougaloo (32-1) trailed 10-seed St. Thomas (26-8) the entire first half, the Bulldogs outscored the Bobcats 42-33 in the second half to punch their ticket to the NAIA Men’s Basketball Championship Quarterfinals. The Bulldogs will take on NAIA top-seed College of Idaho Wednesday, March 15 at 1 p.m. CT at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City. [Box score]

Tougaloo got off to a slow start, missing field goals in the paint and close jump shots, and St. Thomas (Fla.) jumped out to an early 13-4 lead. As with games throughout the season, the Bulldogs continued crashing the boards, grabbing key rebounds to claw their way back into the game.

Tougaloo went on a 5-2 run and pulled within four points (20-24). The Bobcats grabbed a quick offensive board after a missed three, but a turnover led to Bulldog points as De’Arius Henyard drained a jumper to make the 24-22 in favor of St Thomas. Tougaloo tied the game at 24 with six minutes to play in the half, but the Bobcats jumped back in front on a three-pointer by Milton Matthews.  

While it seemed there was a lid on the basket in the first half, De’Arius Henyard connected on a three with 2:31 to play in the half, tying the game at 29. The Bulldogs and Bobcats traded missed shots until James Harris III drained a three. Tougaloo responded immediately with a three-pointer from the corner by Cameron Woodall, and the game was tied at 32 with just over a minute to play in the first period. The Bobcats’ Justyn Rogers hit a quick three with one minute to play, giving St. Thomas a 35-32 edge going into halftime.

The second stanza started much like the first, as St. Thomas extended their lead to nine (41-32) at the 17:29 mark. This was familiar territory for the Bulldogs, as they were down by nine in two previous NAIA contests (SAGU, Texas A&M Texarkana). Rebounding became the difference-maker in the second half. With each push by the Bobcats to extend their lead, Tougaloo grabbed offensive and defensive rebounds and hit on shots they were missing in the first half, keeping the excitement high and the score close.

With the score tied at 54, Copeland hit a three-pointer and was fouled by Fred Mulbah. Converting the free-throw, GCAC Player of the Year lifted the Bulldogs to a 58-55 lead, which they would not relinquish.

Tougaloo scored another 16 points, sparked by suffocating defensive play, to defeat St. Thomas 74-68 in Monday’s matinee.

D’Andre Johnson led St. Thomas with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Milton Matthews chipped in 13 points, and Rogers grabbed 11 boards. Mulbah had a game-high five assists.

Copeland led all scorers with 20 points and added six rebounds. The Bulldogs shot 60% from the floor in the second half, with 18 of Copeland’s 20 points coming in the second period. Henyard shot 6-of-8 from the floor for 14 points. He, along with Antonio Patterson added six rebounds each.

Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. CT for Wednesday’s NAIA tournament matchup against College of Idaho. Tickets are on sale at the door and online, and the game will be broadcast live on the NAIA Network.

Watch Coach Strothers’ interview on HBCULP+ where he discusses the game, his team’s grit, and how conference play prepared his team for this tournament.

Post-game Quotes from Tougaloo Head Coach Eric Strothers

On the win…
“This is a big win for Tougaloo College. It’s the furthest they’ve made it [in the tournament], so it’s big for my players, it’s big for the State of Mississippi, it’s big for the GCAC, and we’re just enjoying the moment right now.”

On being team of two halves…
“When you have great players like Cam Copeland, Antwan Beans, Darryl Jones, Trajan Fielder… I have great players surrounding me and they make the adjustments. We play the first have and then we come in and make the adjustments. They know what I want. We practice this stuff every day, and we get better and better at it. We’re getting better and better as a team, and they understand how to finish and win games.”

On the win streak…
“They know we start every day 0-0. We take that method into every game. All we try to do every game is go 1-0. So today, we’re 1-0. We’re not 31 and whatever, we are 1-0 today. Tomorrow, we’re going to start over and be back to 0-0. That keeps the team focused, not thinking about the record, but trying to get to the next win.”

On the team’s focus for the next game…
“We just want to play our game. We play our game and don’t let other people push us into their game. I’m looking at two really good teams right now [College of Idaho vs. LSU Shreveport], and both of them are [seeded] higher than we are. They have some good players and coaches, and the only thing we can do is play our game on Wednesday. I’m counting on my team to do what they need to do to get the win.”

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NEW ORLEANS, La. — Wednesday evening, in front of a revved-up crowd in New Orleans at Loyola, Tougaloo Bulldogs punched their ticket to the 2023 NAIA Men’s Basketball Championship Round of 16 after defeating Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) 75-62. The win marks the 18th in a row for the Bulldogs. 

The hotly contested matchup came on the heels of SAGU upsetting the No. 3 seed and NAIA defending champions Loyola (La.), and saw Tougaloo suffer an early, 12-point deficit in the first half. The Bulldogs went on an 8-2 run before Trajan Fielder pulled up and drained a three to pull Tougaloo within four (20-24). SAGU turned over the ball and Fielder’s hand stayed hot as he knocked down a jumper. On SAGU’s next possession, Darryl Jones tallied a blocked shot on SAGU’s Philbert Weekes and Fielder hit a transition three-pointer to give the Bulldogs a 25-24 edge with 5:51 to play in the first half. Tougaloo ended the first stanza of play on a 11-6 run to take a 36-30 lead at the half.

The Bulldogs and Lions traded three-pointers to start the second half, and the Lions would pull within three (43-46), but Tougaloo stayed on top, knocking down three-pointers and cashing in on SAGU missed shots. Fielder nailed another three-pointer with 8:42 to play in the game to give the Bulldogs a 60-49 lead. Defensive pressure and second-chance points lifted Tougaloo in the final few minutes of the contest, and they sealed the 75-62 win to advance to the men’s Round of 16 in Kansas City, Mo.

Fielder led all scorers with 25 points, including 5-of-6 from beyond the arc. The Bulldogs shot an impressive 40% in threes and 40% from the field for the game. SAGU’s Weekes and Tougaloo’s Darryl Jones snatched a game-high 14 rebounds each, while Cameron Copeland (Tougaloo) sparked the offense with a career-high 16 assists.

Tougaloo heads to Kansas City, Mo. for a matinee contest against No. 10 seed St. Thomas (Fla.) Monday, March 13. Tip-off is set for 1 p.m. CT. Tickets are available online and at the door. Media are invited to apply for credentials to cover the Bulldogs’ title run.

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The Lady Bearcats would open the game with tough defense and used back-to-back jumpers from Niya McGuire to take an early lead. However, the Lady Panthers would respond quickly with points from Elaijha Brown to turn the top of the contest into a defensive battle. McGuire was on fire from the opening tip, opening up an 8-2 run for Rust as the quarter moved toward the midpoint. After the media timeout, the Lady Panthers finally started to gain momentum with the help of a quick jumper from the top of the arc by Dasia Turner, cutting the lead to four, 10-6. The quarter would conclude with Philander Smith going on a 5-3 run to finish the quarter with a score of 11-7. 

The second frame was similar to the first, as the Lady Bearcats continued their intensive defensive effort toward their opponent, but Philander Smith remained within striking distance. Turner’s shots at the charity stripe would narrow the Lady Panthers’ deficit down to a single field goal. The Lady Panthers struggled to connect on shots under the Lady Bearcats’ tight defense until a contested mid-range jumper by Meleana Williams followed by free throws from First Team All-GCAC selection Myia Yelder would cut the lead to one. The Lady Bearcats worked to answer but an 11-5 run by Philander Smith would move them ahead, 18-16. The final minutes before the half saw the momentum swing back and forth before the Lady Panthers would finish the quarter on a 7-4 run to enter the half leading, 23-20. 

After the break, consecutive baskets from both teams kept Philander Smith’s lead to three. Katie Blackmon would hit a free throw to give a narrow advantage to the Lady Panthers, 25-23. They eventually put together a 14-10 run to close out the third quarter with a six-point lead, 39-33. 

The final frame would go down to the wire with the title in reach for both squads. They traded triples through the midpoint of the quarter, each looking to create a large scoring gap in their favor. Philander Smith struck first around the five-minute mark, putting together a 5-0 run and forcing a crucial turnover. The flurry saw Rust burn a timeout to get settled. With just 2:15 left in regulation, the Lady Bearcats buried a three-pointer to take the lead, 47-45, bringing Kroger Gymnasium to its feet. However, a trip to the foul line by Lady Panthers’ Turner would be enough to knot the score on the next possession. 

Rust College drew up a critical play that drew a charging foul, putting the ball back in its hands with just over a minute left. Philander Smith’s Turner worked hard through traffic under the basket to make a contested putback shot before being fouled and connecting on the resulting free throw. Both teams called for consecutive timeouts, including the Lady Bearcats’ final one, with just 27 ticks left on the clock, and the score at 50-47, to prepare for the end of the contest. A foul by the Lady Panthers sent Rust’s Shuntorri Rodgers to the line where she hit the front of a pair of shots at the stripe. With the teams now separated by a single point, 50-49, and 21 seconds on the clock, Philander Smith called its final timeout with possession of the ball and a path to the title on the line. The Lady Bearcats fouled to extend play but Yelder missed both shots at the charity stripe with 14.8 seconds left. Rust inbounded the ball but made a quick turnover with 11.1 seconds left. Crucial back-to-back turnovers from each team handed the ball back to Rust College for the final possession with 8.4 seconds remaining. A putback jumper by Blackmon put Rust ahead by one, 51-50, which would become the final score as time expired, giving the team its back-to-back-to-back GCAC Tournament title.

Philander Smith saw three players reach double figures led by Turner with 13. She was followed by Williams with 11 points. Yelder posted a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds. McGuire was the lone Lady Bearcat in double digits with 14 points. Blackmon collected a game-high 13 boards.

With the victory, the Rust College Lady Bearcats earned an automatic berth to the 42nd annual Women’s Basketball NAIA National Championship Tournament. First and second round games are slated for campus sites, March 7-8. The selection show will be held on Thursday, March 2 at 6 p.m.CT on the NAIA YouTube Channel. For more information, visit www.naia.org.

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The Lady Bearcats of Rust College secured the No. 1 seed finishing the regular season 12-2 in conference play and will face No. 8 seed Southern University at New Orleans (1-13) Lady Knights.

The battle for No. 2 came down to the wire, with Fisk edging out Philander Smith on the final day of conference play this weekend through the conference tiebreaker ruling. The Lady Bulldogs (11-3) take on No. 7 Oakwood (3-11). The No. 3 spot belongs to Philander Smith (11-3), and they take on the host school No. 6 Tougaloo. Rounding out the women’s bracket are the No. 4 Wiley Lady Wildcats (7-7), battling No. 5 Dillard Lady Bleu Devils (6-8).

On the men’s side, Tougaloo’s Bulldogs look to defend their tournament title. Capping off a perfect 14-0 season in the GCAC, the Bulldogs solidified the regular season title and No. 1 seed and take on No. 8 Southern University at New Orleans (0-14).

Philander Smith (10-4) comes in at No. 2 and takes on No. 7 Oakwood (2-12). Dillard Bleu Devils (9-5) enter the tournament No. 3 and on a three-game win-streak. They battle No. 6 Fisk while No. 4 Wiley (8-6) takes on No. 5 Rust (7-7).

All games will be broadcast on HBCU League Pass+ on the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference channel (02) as well as all member school channels. Download the HBCU League Pass+ mobile app and follow all the action.

For up-to-date information, on the 2023 Hope Credit Union GCAC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championship Presented by Hank Aaron Sports Academy, including matchups, visit bit.ly/gcac-tournament-central.

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Talladega College Vice President and Athletic Director Michael Grant announced that Talladega College President Gregory J. Vincent and the Board of Trustees made the decision to pursue NCAA membership, and the college has submitted its application.

“This is a strategic and transformative move that will strengthen our athletic programs and elevate our brand,” said Grant. “Most importantly, joining NCAA Division II will benefit our student-athletes by expanding opportunities for them to train, compete and reach their full potential in academics and athletics.” 

“In every major decision that we make, we consider how the decision will impact our students and how it aligns with our commitment to being a student-centered institution.  NCAA Division ll shares our values and dedication to excellence in academics and sports,” said President Vincent.  “After extensive research and careful consideration, we have determined that the NCAA would be an excellent fit for Talladega College.”

One of the charter members of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) in 1913, the Tornadoes will explore a return to the SIAC membership for most of its current 18 competitive teams. Plans are underway to add at least three new sports teams.

Currently, Talladega College competes in the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Talladega joined the SSAC in 2021 after spending most of the previous two decades in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference of the NAIA.

Founded in 1867, Talladega College is Alabama’s first private historically black liberal arts college. The institution was recognized as #13 in the nation for social mobility by U.S. News and World Report in 2022 and named one of Princeton Review’s 2023 Best Colleges Region by Region.

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By Chris Megginson

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Bailey Talley and Khalil Johnson combined for 62 points and 30 rebounds Thursday night as Stillman College took down the defending NAIA Men’s Basketball National Champions, No. 14 Loyola University, 103-95, in double overtime. The win came in front of a loud crowd on Greek Night in Birthright Alumni Hall. 

Johnson sniped seven 3-pointers and finished with 32 points to lead all players, while Talley came off the bench to score 30 points, snag 21 rebounds and block three shots. It is the first time in the current Stillman men’s basketball NAIA era to have two players score 30 points on the same night. 

The biggest three of the night for Johnson may have been the one with 49 seconds left in double overtime to give Stillman a 97-92 lead. 

He blocked a shot on defense to set up the possession. On the next defensive possession, Talley swatted his third block of the game, which helped lead to a dunk on the other end of the floor to cap the stat line by the junior from Covington, Louisiana. 

Stillman College closed the game on an 11-3 run in the final 2:21 of action. 

The Tigers exceeded their goal of 50 rebounds in a game, logging 53 boards to Loyola’s 34. Talley’s 21 boards were not only a lifetime high, but pass Leon Hampton (19 rebounds vs Rust College, Dec. 2018) for the most by a Stillman Tiger in the program’s modern NAIA era. 

The game was tested throughout, with 21 ties and 17 lead changes in 50 minutes of action. Loyola led at the half, 42-41, helped in part by 14 free throw attempts, compared to the Tigers’ three. Talley led the Tigers with 11 first-half points to counter Jalen Galloway’s 14 for Loyola. 

Coming out of halftime, Johnson hit a 3 to answer a basket by Galloway and tie the game, 44-44. Marcus Bates Jr then hit a layup to give Stillman a 46-44 lead. The Tigers did not give up their lead again, despite several ties down the stretch. With 7:39 to play in regulation, Stillman posted its largest lead of the night, 76-65, as Devin Merriweather jumped out of his left New Balance shoe while hitting a fadeaway for the Tigers’ 11-point lead. Loyola chipped away to work the game even, 84-84, on a made layup and free throw by Matthew Mondesir with 57 seconds left in regulation. 

In the first overtime, Johnson hit three free throws and a 3-pointer to give Stillman a 90-84 lead, but Loyola fought back with a pair of 3s by Michael Harden. Neither team could break the tie in the final 43 seconds with Harden missing a jumper at the buzzer to send the game to a second OT. 

The double 30-point performance is the first for Stillman College since at least its NCAA days. The closest in the current NAIA era was when Merriweather scored 29 to go along with Trey Petty’s 35 points during a 2021 win over Blue Mountain College. 

Galloway finished the game with 26 points to lead Loyola, while Harden scored 23. 

The Tigers also won the game at the free throw line, hitting 21-of-24 attempts. Loyola made only 14-of-23, including 4-of-9 in the final 30 minutes of action. 

With two games to play, Stillman (15-11, 11-7) returns to a tie for third position in the SSAC standings after losses by the University of Mobile and Dalton State College on Thursday. The Tigers will travel to No. 17 Faulkner University on Tuesday, Feb. 14 for a 7:30 p.m. tip, before closing out the regular season at home Saturday, Feb. 18 for Homecoming against Talladega College. 

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Stillman opened the season with a 26-2 win over Oakwood at John Hunt Park, then pieced together the 21-0 shutout. The combined 47-2 day is the Tigers’ best since shutting out Lane College by a combined 53-0 in a doubleheader sweep on March 9, 2013. That was also the day of the Tigers’ last two no-hitters, including a perfect game by former Tiger Joey Flaletta.

The no-hitter is the second NAIA no-hitter of the season, following a Feb. 4 no-hitter by Southwest Christian over Dillard University. It is the fifth in college baseball for the 2023 season.

GAME 1: STILLMAN 26, OAKWOOD 2

Nine different Stillman players had one hit apiece in the season-opener, while Stillman drew 16 walks to help produce its 26 runs in the first game. The Tigers’ 26 runs are the most in Stillman’s current NAIA era and most since scoring 36 and 29 runs in back-to-back games against Lane College in 2013.

Sieas Elliot hit the first home run of the season for the Tigers in the top of the seventh. Collins had a three-run triple in the game to join TJ Blackmon with three RBIs each to lead the Tigers.

Griff Minor (1-0) led a four-man rotation on the mound, allowing one run off two hits. He struck out six through three innings. Justin Cummings pitched two innings, Isidro Jimenez and Cody Clark each threw one inning.

GAME 2: STILLMAN 21, OAKWOOD 0

Leadoff hitter Tre’en Dorsett hit 3-for-4 with a walk and four RBI in his first appearance of the season. Blackmon collected two more RBI in the game to finish with five on the day. Cummings and Cole Odom each had two hits, while Odom drove in three runs and Cummings had two RBI.

In the combined no-hit pitching performance, Steven Oates (1-0) pitched the first three innings on the mound. He struck out eight with his only blemish being a hit batter. Hayes Brown struck out four, walked one and hit one. Collins closed the last two innings, striking out all six batters faced.

NEXT: Stillman (2-0) will host Tuskegee University on Saturday, Feb. 11 for a non-conference HBCU doubleheader in its home opener at Tiger Field.

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The series will follow college gymnastics’ only all BIPOC team as they navigate the pressures of their first season while challenging the stereotypes and norms in women’s athletics. With no university gym of their own, Coach Corrinne Tarver and her gymnastics team at Fisk University, consisting primarily of first-year college students, aim to take on the best in NCAA gymnastics without mitigating or changing who they are as women of color. The series features unprecedented access to the coaches, student-athletes, parents, and administrators at Fisk University and the trials and triumphs of HBCU sports.

The team includes several Division-I athletes who de-committed from high-profile programs. Just four months after the team’s first practice, Fisk University became the first historically Black university gymnastics squad to compete at the NCAA level, taking the mat at the 2023 Super 16 gymnastics invitational in Las Vegas, NV. 17-year-old Morgan Price, a Fisk University freshman, competed in all four individual events, earning the meet’s highest score (9.9) on the vault.

“This is the most aspirational coming-of-age sports story of the year. We have not seen this before and its happening in real-time. My work as a filmmaker has always and will always be about unpacking and centering stories of extraordinary Black women as they navigate the intersection of race, gender, and class. Watching this unfold in gymnastics will be a blueprint and a lesson for equity and access, said Riley Draper.

Coach Tarver said, “I am so honored to see this story brought to light in a documentary series. Following this team as it makes history and sharing the courage and fearless nature these student-athletes bring to the mat every day is inspiring to all.”

Fisk University Executive Vice President Jens Frederiksen said, “Fisk University has always been at the forefront of social justice and impact from W.E.B DuBois, to Diane Nash, and Nikki Giovanni. This remarkable gymnastics team continues this unique legacy by paving the way for the next generation of HBCU athletics and Black gymnasts.”

The gymnastics program at Fisk University is the brainchild of impassioned mother, Terricka Cromartie. “Creating a safe and inclusive space for female athletes of color to compete and thrive was of great importance to me,” said Cromartie. Cromartie’s uncle, Frank Simmons, a Fisk University trustee, said “From the beginning, we wanted every black or brown girl who wanted to have an HBCU experience to not have to choose between gymnastics and her culture.”

Riley Draper is repped by CAA, Management 360 and Lichter Grossman Nichols Adler Feldman & Clark. Lyon is repped by Lichter Grossman Nichols Adler Feldman & Clark. Larry Kopeikin of Kopeikin Law repped Gail Lyon.

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UMES senior guard DaShawn Phillips stole a long pass into the NCCU backcourt and hit a twisting layup to tie the game at 58 as he was fouled with 22.4 seconds to play. He sank the free throw to give UMES its only lead of the game. Phillips’ points were the last of an 8-0 Hawks’ run to close out the game after trailing 58-51 with 1:22 left. 

NC Central leads and gets last chance

After an NCCU timeout, guard Justin Wright dribbled the clock down before trying a contested driving layup with just :01 second left. NCCU got its hands on the rebound as the clock expired. 

The matchup was between teams with identical 10-8 overall, and 3-1 MEAC marks. They were two of five conference teams tied at the top of the league with 3-1 records. 

NCCU (10-9, 3-2) led early 9-0, had a 33-20 halftime lead and maintained a double-digit lead halfway through the second half. UMES (11-8, 4-1) closed to within 46-41 on a Phillips 3-pointer at the 8:55 mark. But NCCU built the lead back to nine at 54-45, on an inside basket by 7-foot center Brenden Medley-Bacon. 

MDES closes in a flurry

Donchevell Nugent’s 3-pointer with 3:36 left cut the NCCU lead to 56-48. UMES closed to 56-51 on a two Nathaniel Pollard Jr. free throws. But Eric Boone then beat the shot clock to score on a runner in the lane to push the lead to 58-51. 

Zion Styles swished a 3-pointer with 40.5 seconds left to cut the lead to 58-54. Pollard then stole an NCCU pass at midcourt and drove for a basket to pull the Hawks within 58-56 with :28 ticks on the clock. 

NCCU called timeout and then threw the ball deep into the backcourt that Phillips intercepted for the game-winning play. 

NC Central’s downfall

NCCU was done in by 24 turnovers, none more costly than the final one that decided the game. Justin Wright had 19 points to lead the Eagles. Medley-Bacon had 11 points, seven of the Eagies first nine points to open the game. Eric Boone added nine points and a game-high 13 rebounds.

Styles and Nugent both had 13 points to lead MDES. Pollard had nine points and led the Hawks off the boards with nine rebounds. MDES has never won an MEAC title. The Hawks have now won four straight MEAC contests after losing its conference opener to Norfolk State. The Hawks had 12 steals in the game.

In another match of conference leaders in Baltimore Monday, Morgan State led wire to wire in knocking off two-time defending champion Norfolk State, 77-71. Howard won at Coppin State, 90-76. Howard, Morgan State and UMES are now tied at the top of the MEAC with 4-1 conference records. 

NCCU is at Howard Saturday. UMES will host Coppin State Saturday.

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