Taking the stage late Saturday night, the Houston rapper transformed the desert into his own Astroworld, complete with elaborate visuals, a towering stage setup, and a mosh-pit-ready crowd. Opening with “HYAENA” from his Utopia album, Scott wasted no time sending his fans into a frenzy.

The Marching 100 and Sonic Boom of the South performed an original arrangement of Travis Scott’s “4X4” for his Coachella intro. The record features a sample from Tennessee State University and the Aristocrat of Bands, and features The Marching Storm from Prairie View A&M in the music video. Both FAMU and Jackson State responded to Scott’s open invitation in February for an HBCU band to perform a horn arrangement for Coachella.

It was quite the day for the Marching 100, our Vaughn Wilson reports that the other half of the band was at Bragg Stadium on campus Saturday night performing with line dance king “Cupid.”

Back in the desert Scott blended fan favorites like “SICKO MODE,” “goosebumps,” and “Antidote” with newer tracks, including unreleased snippets that sent fans into a frenzy. Pyrotechnics, fire bursts, and surreal lighting elevated the experience, while guest appearances—rumored to include Don Toliver and Playboi Carti—added to the hype.

Scott also paid homage to the late Virgil Abloh with a heartfelt shoutout and visuals honoring the iconic designer. The crowd, a sea of phones and raging fans, stayed locked in for the entire set, proving his grip on festival culture is as strong as ever.

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The relationship marks a new chapter for Chrisean Rock, who recently ended her long and often chaotic romance with rapper Blueface. Interestingly enough, Blueface has his own HBCU connection—he once played quarterback at Fayetteville State University before trading in a football uniform for the stage. Now, it appears Rock has traded one HBCU athlete for another.

Tytan Newton, nicknamed “Figgy,” is a Business Management major at Morgan State University, an HBCU located in Baltimore. He’s set to graduate in May 2025 and aspires to become an engineer. Though he averaged just 1.4 points per game during the 2024-2025 season, he made headlines by scoring 41 points during his JUCO days at Panola College. Newton chose Morgan State simply because he liked the school, and he cites Allen Iverson as his biggest influence.

While social media reactions to the new couple have been mixed, many fans are happy to see Chrisean Rock moving on with someone who seems low-key and grounded. Whether this is a long-term relationship or a temporary flame, the HBCU world is once again brushing shoulders with the entertainment spotlight.

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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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“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Coach Johnetta Hayes to Hornet Nation,” said ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr. “She is a proven leader with a championship pedigree, a two-time SWAC Coach of the Year, and someone who brings a relentless pursuit of excellence both on the court and in the lives of our student-athletes. With her at the helm, we believe Lady Hornets basketball is ready to soar to new heights. Let’s go, Hornet Nation!”

Hayes joins Alabama State following a season as an assistant coach at Rutgers University. She becomes just the third head coach in the history of the Lady Hornets basketball program, succeeding longtime coach Freda Freeman-Jackson, who retired in March after 27 remarkable seasons.

With over a decade of head coaching experience, Hayes has built a reputation for success and program-building. She spent six standout seasons leading Texas Southern University (2013–2019), compiling an 83-24 record in SWAC play and an overall mark of 115-74. During her tenure, TSU captured two SWAC regular-season titles, one SWAC Tournament title, and earned four postseason appearances — including trips to the NCAA Tournament, WNIT, and WBI.

“Today marks an exciting chapter for Alabama State women’s basketball,” said Dr. Cable. “Coach Hayes brings a vision and energy that aligns perfectly with our values and goals. Her dedication to player development and competitive excellence will take our program to new heights while fostering personal growth in our student-athletes.”

“I’m truly honored and grateful to President Ross, Dr. Cable, and Dr. Lavalais for this opportunity,” Hayes said. “Alabama State stands for more than just athletic success — it’s a place that values family, faith, and a championship mindset. I’m excited to join a culture built on these principles and can’t wait to get to work. Now is the time for us to unite as one — SWARMAS1 — and build something special together.”

Hayes most recently served as head coach at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), where she led the Retrievers to a historic turnaround. In 2022-23, her team posted an 11-win improvement, one of the largest turnarounds nationally, and went 10-6 in America East play — the second-best conference record in program history. UMBC advanced to the America East Semifinals for the first time since 2015.

Under Hayes’ leadership at UMBC, Kiara Bell earned America East Defensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year honors, making both the All-Conference Second Team and All-Defensive Team. KK White and Ashia McCalla also received All-Conference recognition, with McCalla named to the Academic All-District Team. The team’s academic performance was equally impressive, achieving a 3.32 GPA in Fall 2022, with several players earning 4.0 GPAs and Dean’s List honors.

Prior to her time at UMBC and Texas Southern, Hayes served on the coaching staff at UNC Wilmington under legendary coach Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, helping the Seahawks to consecutive 20-win seasons and WNIT appearances. She also held assistant coaching roles at North Texas and Prairie View A&M and was head coach at Wiley College from 2006–2008.

A Houston native, Hayes was a standout player at Rice University from 2000–2004. She earned First Team All-WAC honors in 2003 and led the team in scoring, rebounding, blocked shots, and field goal percentage. She ranks third in program history with 142 career blocks and was 16th nationally in blocks per game during the 2002–03 season.

Hayes holds a Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree from Rice and a Master of Education from Prairie View A&M. She is the proud mother of two daughters, Khloe Perry and Zoie Perry.

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“This is indeed a proud day for Grambling State University and an exciting new chapter for our men’s basketball program,” Grambling State AD Dr. Trayvean Scott said at the Friday morning press conference.

Crarey is no stranger to the HBCU landscape. After guiding FAMU to its most wins since 2008 and a postseason berth for the first time since 2019, he has now been entrusted with continuing Grambling’s proud basketball legacy. The new Tigers head coach made it clear: he’s here to build a winner.

“As a builder, I lay the foundation, the new one myself,” Crarey said. “I’m about relationships, then championships… to enhance the brand of Grambling and to win at the highest levels.”

Crarey acknowledged the work of his predecessor, Donte’ Jackson, who led Grambling to multiple SWAC championships. 

“Much respect to my brother, Donte Jackson, aka Tae Jack,” Crarey said. “He built this program with his bare hands. I will continue the tradition on the foundation of his success.”

Crarey gave special thanks to Florida A&M for his opportunity at the Division I level. “A special thank you to President Beard and Robinson at Florida A&M for giving me the opportunity to be a Division I head coach. To Angela Suggs, who I adore — thank you. From day one to the end, you worked for me and I’ll forever be grateful.”

He also acknowledged the support of former FAMU athletic director and current Virginia State AD, Tiffani-Dawn Sykes. “To Gram Fam, Tiffany Dawn Sykes — clap for her. What’s understood doesn’t need to be said. You believed before anyone. And I’ll always love you for it.”

Looking forward, Crarey offered a vision rooted in both competitive excellence and cultural pride. 

“This move was about winning within an organization that believed in my capabilities from day one,” he said. “Today starts our new journey together… What you believe about yourself, others will believe about you too.”

“It’s time to let everyone know the Tigers are here.”

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With support from organizations like the NFL and the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics), HBCUs are now at the forefront of developing competitive women’s flag football programs.

Flag football for high school girls is rapidly emerging as a popular and transformative sport, offering new opportunities and pathways for young female athletes.

At just 17, Ki’Lolo Westerlund is rewriting the playbook for women’s flag football. She landed a starring role in the NFL Flag 50 commercial that aired during Super Bowl LIX—a spot that had her sharing screen time with NFL stars like Myles Garrett, Justin Jefferson, and Marshawn Lynch.

While millions watched her performance on screens worldwide right after halftime,Westerfund was actually at the game in New Orleans with her father, soaking in the live atmosphere and the personal triumph of her achievement.

“It was an honor,” Westerlund said recently in a phone interview withe the New York Times. “That’s kind of when it all hit me. I was emotional. And I was like, ‘Wow, this is happening. This is crazy. All the people around me were like — wait, that’s you.”

Last April, HBCU Alabama State, an FCS program, made history by becoming the first Division I school to launch a women’s flag football program. This groundbreaking move not only expanded opportunities for female athletes but also set the stage for a new era in collegiate sports.

This past offseason, Alabama State took another monumental step by awarding the first-ever DI scholarship in women’s flag football. The scholarship went to Westerlund, a decision that reflects both athletic excellence and a commitment to trailblazing leadership.

Alabama State head coach Jennifer Constable, who spearheaded the initiative, was determined to reward an athlete who could transform the game on the field and serve as a role model off it.

“It was honestly a no-brainer,” Constable said recently. “She was my No. 1 pick to do that. … She’s going to be that person that kids are going to look up to.”

Westerlund’s collegiate journey is just the beginning of a much larger vision. While she’s excited to compete at the collegiate level, her ultimate ambition is to represent her country in the 2028 Olympics.

For her, the Olympic stage isn’t merely about personal achievement—it’s an opportunity to showcase the growing strength and potential of women’s flag football on a global platform.

“Absolutely,” Westerlund said when asked if she believes people are becoming more accepting of girls and women playing football. “They are coming around and trying to understand it.

“And for those that still don’t, they will soon.”

Just as Alabama State broke ground with its program, another HBCU entity is forging a new path.
 
Winston-Salem State University hosted one of the two Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Round-up events on March 5-6 at Civitan Park. This inaugural event brought together top-tier talent from across the conference and highlighted the competitive of the league’s eight programs.

Virginia Union University hosted a second round-up at the end of the month to set up position for the inaugural flag football championship. The round up will be held at Johnson C. Smith University on Friday and Saturday to declare a champion. 

– Story by Tia Greene

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The move to Grambling state comes on the heels of an interesting 50 weeks in Tallahassee. Crarey was initially named as FAMU’s head coach by Tiffani-Dawn Sykes and agreed to a three-year deal. However, the FAMU Board of Trustees pushed his contract into the summer and several board members openly questioned his credentials. A one-year, $150k contract was eventually approved by the BOT in late July.

Crarey led FAMU to a 13-16 record, winning 10 games in the SWAC after the program had won just seven games all the previous year. FAMU attempted to offer Crarey a two-year extension worth up to $170k earlier this year. The posting for the Grambling State job started at $230k.

Before coming to the HBCU ranks, Patrick Crarey built an impressive coaching resume marked by consistent success and player development. Most recently, he led St. Thomas University to back-to-back standout seasons. In 2023-24, the Bobcats finished 22-9, clinched the Sun Conference regular season title, and reached the second round of the NAIA Tournament, ending the season ranked 21st nationally. Crarey was named Sun Conference Coach of the Year, with five of his players earning All-Conference honors and standout Milton Matthews being selected to the NAIA All-American Second Team.

In 2022-23, Crarey guided St. Thomas to a program-record 26 wins and a Round of 16 finish in the NAIA Tournament. His squad set school records in home wins (15-1) and three-pointers made, with Dalon Dean and Milton Matthews becoming the first players in school history to hit 100 threes in a season. Fred Mulbah also set a single-season assist record with 241.

Crarey began his tenure at St. Thomas in 2021-22, producing four All-Conference players and three future professionals. Previously, he spent a decade at Washington Adventist University, where he won a national title in 2014 and earned two Coach of the Year awards while sending numerous players to pro careers across the globe.

Now he will take over a Grambling State program propped up by Jackson, another former NAIA coach that made the transition to success at an HBCU on the Division I level. 

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His arrival marks a new chapter for Fayetteville State, an HBCU program that D’Alessio helped elevate into perennial contenders. In five seasons, D’Alessio guided the Broncos to three CIAA title game appearances, winning the championship in 2022. He departs with a 103-52 record and was named the 2024-25 CIAA and HBCU All-Stars Clarence “Big House” Gaines NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year.

Hoehn, who played at West Liberty and previously served on staff at Nova Southeastern, has earned a reputation for building high-powered offenses and coaching with an aggressive, intelligent defensive approach. He also developed standout HBCU talent, including 2025 CIAA and HBCU Division II Player of the Year Jordan Hines.

Fayetteville State, which emerged as a building basketball program under D’Alessio, now turns to Hoehn to continue the momentum. His passion, player development background, and commitment to fast-paced, disciplined basketball align with the program’s championship aspirations.

As one HBCU coaching era ends, another begins in Cumberland County. 

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Under his leadership, Morehouse College captured three consecutive SIAC East Division Regular Season titles from 2022 through 2024. Whittler developed standout talent, including Kerry Richardson, Cedric Taylor III—who earned both Freshman of the Year and First Team All-SIAC honors—and Brandon Peters, a 2024-25 All-Freshman selection. The 2023-24 team also held the title of the nation’s top defensive squad in NCAA Division II by field goal percentage.

With a 76-40 overall record (.655) and 59-21 conference mark (.734), Whittler holds the highest win total of any Morehouse coach in their first four seasons, and the second-highest winning percentage in program history.

As Morehouse begins a national search for new leadership, this transition marks the end of a significant chapter in HBCU basketball. Whittler’s departure leaves behind a legacy of excellence, both on and off the court, that has helped Morehouse stay amongst the elite in the SIAC and HBCU basketball at the Division II level. 

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Alcorn State is expected to hire Jake Morton as its next head coach, according to a report by Jon Rothstein. The move is the latest in a busy offseason across HBCU basketball, as Morton steps in to replace Landon Bussie, who left last month to take over at Chicago State.

Morton brings a deep resume to the HBCU ranks, having served as an assistant coach at numerous Division I programs and currently completing his first season at Florida State under Leonard Hamilton. His return to head a program aligns with Alcorn’s desire to maintain momentum after Bussie helped make the Braves a consistent force in the SWAC and the broader HBCU basketball landscape.

A former standout at the University of Miami, Morton played for Hamilton from 1989 to 1993, later returning to the Hurricanes as an assistant coach. He helped guide Miami to three straight 20-win seasons and a 2008 NCAA Tournament berth. His coaching path includes stops at East Carolina, Jacksonville State, Coppin State, and even an early stop at HBCU Bowie State, where he began his coaching career in 2000.

Morton’s time at Jacksonville State marked one of the most successful stretches in program history, including an Atlantic Sun regular-season title and an NCAA Tournament appearance. His teams averaged 20 wins per season, a level of consistency Alcorn State fans will welcome.

Alcorn State is aiming to stay competitive in the SWAC and nationally among HBCUs, and Jake Morton’s hiring signals a commitment to experience and proven results. As HBCU programs continue to raise their profiles and invest in high-level coaching talent, Morton’s arrival is both a reunion with his roots and a chance to lead his own program after one year at Florida State. 

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“It’s been the honor of my lifetime to lead the men’s basketball program here at Bluefield State. Throughout the last 4 years we have built something truly special, culminating in our recent appearance in the NCAA DII Atlantic Regional tournament for the first time in nearly 30 years,” Hoehn wrote. 

“To President Capehart and Coach Price, thank you for taking a chance on me and providing the opportunity to lead this program. Your unwavering support and mentorship have been instrumental in both my personal and professional growth. The friendship we’ve developed over these years is something I deeply cherish.”

The former West Liberty star took over the program prior to the 2021-22 season when HBCU squad was competing as an independent. The program went 10-14 that season, before increasing its win total to 13-15 the following year. BSU re-joined the CIAA in the 2023-2024 season, where it finished 9-22 but managed to win two CIAA Tournament games, knocking off defending conference champion Winston-Salem State. Bluefield State took a big leap this past season, going 19-12 and competing in the CIAA championship game. It earned an at-large bid in the NCAA Tournament as well.

Now the HBCU will look to hire another coach to keep it amongst the CIAA elite heading into the 2025-2026 season and beyond. 

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The Washington, D.C. native was lightly recruited prior to coming to Howard, but quickly became as force for the Washington, DC – based HBCU. 

Harper shot 44.7% from the field (182-for-407) and displayed a solid three-point stroke, connecting on 40 of his 99 attempts for a 40.4 percent success rate. He was also reliable at the free-throw line, making 221 of 268 attempts, an impressive 82.5%. Harper was active defensively, recording 31 steals and contributing on the boards with 197 total rebounds. His playmaking ability was evident with 110 assists, while maintaining strong defensive discipline with only five foul-outs.

Harper’s numbers weren’t only outstanding for HBCU basketball and the MEAC but across the NCAA as well. Harper was the 28th ranked scorer in all of Division I basketball, the only HBCU player ranked in the top 50.

While Maryland basketball may be on Blake Harper’s list, it doesn’t appear that he has made a commitment yet. 

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Her success was recognized with several honors, including CIAA Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year and HBCU All-Stars Lonnie Bartley NCAA Division II National Coach of the Year.

“Morgan has always been a place where excellence is not only expected but cultivated—and that is exactly what we see in Coach Nadine Domond,” said Morgan State President David K. Wilson. “She brings a championship mindset, a proven track record of developing women both on and off the court, and a vision that aligns perfectly with our aspirations for the Lady Bears.”

Domond brings experience from every level of basketball. As a player, she starred at the University of Iowa under Hall of Fame coach C. Vivian Stringer, where she was a Second Team All-Big Ten selection, a Big Ten champion, and a three-time NCAA Tournament participant. She also won a silver medal with USA Basketball in 1997 and was selected 19th overall by the New York Liberty in the 1998 WNBA Draft. She later played for the Sacramento Monarchs and was inducted into the Connecticut Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2019.

Her coaching career began at Hampton University, another HBCU, and included stops at Rutgers, Grambling State—where she was named SWAC Coach of the Year in 2015—and most recently, Virginia State.

“Coach Domond brings a level of excellence that is consistent with the direction we are taking our athletic programs at Morgan,” said Dena Freeman-Patton, Morgan’s vice president and director for Intercollegiate Athletics.

“Her success as both a coach and a player, her ability to recruit and connect within the DMV, and her commitment to building young women into champions on and off the court made her the clear choice.”

Domond succeeds longtime head coach Ed Davis Jr., who retired following the 2024–25 season after a 33-year collegiate coaching career. Under Davis, the Lady Bears captured a share of the MEAC regular-season title in 2022 but have yet to earn a Division I NCAA Tournament appearance.

“I’m incredibly honored to join Morgan State University as the next head coach of the Lady Bears,” Domond said. “This opportunity comes at the perfect time—not just in my journey but in the evolution of women’s college basketball and the rise of HBCU programs across the country.”

Her hire is the fourth major coaching selection made by Freeman-Patton since 2022, following appointments in football, wrestling, and acrobatics and tumbling. Morgan State is expected to formally introduce Domond in a press conference on campus in the coming weeks.

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Since taking over the program in 2022, Coach Domond compiled a strong 58-28 overall record, including a 35-14 mark in CIAA play and a dominant 5-1 record against longtime rival Virginia Union. Under her leadership, VSU became a consistent force in the conference, making two CIAA Tournament Semifinal appearances (2023, 2024), a run to the CIAA Finals in 2025, and securing an NCAA Tournament berth for the first time since 2018.

Her first season laid the groundwork, as the Trojans finished 12-16 overall and advanced to the CIAA quarterfinals with an even 8-8 conference record. The program’s resurgence gained full steam in 2023–24, when VSU posted a 23-win season, broke into the top 10 of the WBCA Coaches Poll, and made a return trip to the CIAA semifinals.

CIAA Division Title

This past season, the Trojans matched their 23-win mark, captured the CIAA Northern Division title, and earned their long-awaited NCAA Tournament bid—marking the first time since 2016–18 that the program achieved back-to-back 20-win seasons.

Coach Domond’s impact extended far beyond the win column. Eight Trojans earned All-CIAA honors during her tenure. In 2025, she was named CIAA Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year and was featured on the Coaching Excellence Honor Roll. Carmen Kweti was recognized as the CIAA Defensive Player of the Year, while standout Amesha Miller received the NCAA’s 50th Anniversary Scholarship a season earlier.

Domond also placed a strong emphasis on academics. She coached three Academic All-District selections and mentored both Carmen Kweti and Anii Harris to become Academic All-American finalists, as recognized by the College Sports Communicators (CSC).

Most recently, Coach Domond was selected to coach in the inaugural HBCU Women’s All-Star Game, held April 6 in San Antonio, Texas.

Statement from Tiffani-Dawn B. Sykes, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics:

“We are deeply grateful for the leadership Coach Domond brought to our women’s basketball program. Her influence has been felt not only in the wins she helped produce, but in the personal and academic growth of our student-athletes. She leaves behind a legacy of competitive excellence and mentorship.

The search for our next head coach is underway. We are determined to find a leader who will build on our recent momentum and elevate the program to national prominence. With the support of our administration, alumni, and boosters, we remain fully committed to pushing the Trojans to new heights.”

As VSU begins the next chapter, the impact of Coach Domond’s leadership will remain an enduring part of the program’s foundation.

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Over his five-season run, he amassed a remarkable 103-52 record at FSU—a 66.5% win rate—and holds a career collegiate coaching record of 302-148 spanning over 15 years.

“We are deeply grateful for the leadership and commitment Coach D’Alessio brought to our men’s basketball program,” said Director of Athletics Anthony Bennett. “His accomplishments speak volumes, and his impact has extended well beyond the court. He’s helped elevate the entire Fayetteville State community.”

Under D’Alessio’s guidance, the Broncos reached the CIAA Championship game three times and captured the program’s first conference title in nearly five decades. Fayetteville State also earned two NCAA Regional tournament bids, including a historic run to the semifinal round. Along the way, six players garnered All-CIAA recognition, one was named CIAA Tournament MVP, and the team protected home court with an impressive 53-11 record at Capel Arena.

CIAA Championship Winner

In his first season, D’Alessio led the Broncos to a 24-8 record and came within one point of a CIAA Championship, falling 63-62 in the final.

After the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the following season, Fayetteville State returned stronger than ever. In 2022, the Broncos claimed the CIAA Championship in Baltimore with a thrilling 65-62 win over Virginia Union—earning their first NCAA Atlantic Region Tournament appearance since 1993.

FSU returned to the semifinals in 2023 and again reached the championship game in 2024, narrowly losing 54-51 to Lincoln (PA).

In what would be his final season, D’Alessio led the Broncos to another NCAA Atlantic Region Tournament berth, where they advanced to the semifinals. He also served as an assistant coach for the HBCU All-Stars’ Bob Love team, which went on to win the event.

Though the chapter has closed on D’Alessio’s time at Fayetteville State, his legacy is cemented—one defined by resilience, achievement, and a winning culture.

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LARAMIE, Wyo. – Head football coach Jay Sawvel announced the addition of running back coach Gary Harrell to the Wyoming Cowboys’ coaching staff. Harrell comes to Wyoming after serving as the running back coach at Colorado since the 2023 season. Harrell is an HBCU alum and former head coach at his alma mater, Howard University.

“Coach Harrell really stood out during the interview process with his experience with the position and his overall experience as a coach which includes time as a head coach at his Alma Mater,” Sawvel said. “He is well-respected with a great sense for the game offensively, and we are excited to have him here at the University of Wyoming and excited to get him in the room and out on the field with our team.”

Affectionately known as “The Flea,” Harrell is a native of Miami, Fla., and played collegiately at Howard University. Where he is a member of the Hall of Fame at the HBCU. He spent two seasons in the NFL and spent time in the World League and the Canadian Football League. He also served as head coach at his alma mater.

The Flea in the Mountains

“I’m very excited for this next step and excited to be amongst this staff,” Harrell said. “I have heard great things about the atmosphere here at the University of Wyoming and excited for this opportunity to bring my energy and work with this great group of young men.”

He was named running back coach at Colorado in December of 2022. He helped lead the Buffs to the 2024 Alamo Bowl.  Prior to his time in Boulder, Harrell coached at SWAC HBCU Jackson State. Joining the program in November of 2020 after serving as running backs coach for a season at Alabama State.

Prior to joining Alabama State, he served as a coach for two years under Lane Kiffin at Florida Atlantic. He joined the Florida Atlantic staff in January of 2017. His attention was given to the wide receivers, who rotated throughout the season. Seeing the quarterbacks utilize a total of nine receivers. Senior Kalib Woods was named the Conference USA Championship MVP, and Willie Wright was the team’s most consistent wideout, leading the Owls with 56 catches and a total of six touchdowns. Following the year, Wright earned a spot on the Conference USA All-Freshman team.

Prior to his time at Florida Atlantic, Gary Harrell was the head coach at Howard, starting in 2011. He served as Howard’s head coach for five seasons. During his tenure, student-athletes worked under the premise that athletics and academics were evaluated equally. In 2012, the D.C. Touchdown Club honored Harrell as the Local College Coach of the Year. During his time at Howard, he finished with a 20-36 overall record, including a 7-4 mark in 2012.

HBCU Coaching Stripes

Prior to his time at Howard, Harrell spent two seasons as the offensive coordinator for Bowie State, from 2009-10. He began at Morgan State in 2008 and remained there through 2009 before seizing the opportunity to move from a position coach with the Rattlers to an offensive coordinator position at Bowie State. While at Morgan State, he was part of a team that finished 6-6 in 2008 and 6-5 in 2009.

Harrell started his career coaching Howard’s wide receivers from 2002-04. He served as a Texas Southern assistant coach for wide receivers from 2004-06. Harrell returned to the East Coast as an assistant coach in 2006.

“The Flea” played two NFL seasons, seeing action in four games in 1994 and ’95 with the New York Giants. He also played one season (March 1996-June 1996) for the World League’s Frankfurt Galaxy and two seasons in the Canadian Football League with the Montreal Alouettes (1996-97).

Harrell was a four-year letter winner as a wide receiver and punt return specialist at Howard. He started every game for Howard’s undefeated 1993 team and was a member of the MEAC Championship team that same season. Harrell holds the Howard record for most receptions in a game (13) and in a career (184). He was inducted into the Howard University Hall of Fame in 2005 and also received a proclamation from the City of Miami declaring it Gary “Flea” Harrell Day. Prior to attending Howard, he was a varsity athlete for Miami’s Northwestern High School.

Harrell earned his degree in Marketing from Howard in 1994. 

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The 2024 season was a rollercoaster for JCSU football. The Golden Bulls started 8-0 and quickly became one of the hottest teams in HBCU football, drawing national attention with their dominant defense and explosive offense. However, the team stumbled down the stretch, losing their final two games and narrowly missing both the CIAA championship game and a potential NCAA Division II playoff berth. The late-season heartbreak has only fueled the returning players. Guys like Brevin Caldwell, who knows the Golden Bulls’ 2025 campaign is his last chance to bring a championship back to the Queen City for JCSU.

WATCH: Brick x Brick with JCSU Football | Spring Ball ’25 | First Day Out

The Charlotte, NC native stars in the premiere episode of the new spring season of Brick x Brick with JCSU Football. HBCU Gameday’s behind-the-scenes docuseries has covered the HBCU football program’s rebuild during Maurice Flower’s tenure in Charlotte.

In the mic-’d-up portion of the episode, Caldwell showcases his determination and professional mindset. He gives viewers a glimpse into the work ethic of a top HBCU football player, as he’s one of the first players on the field before practice in the “First Day Out” episode of the series.

HBCU to NFL

“I’m aspiring for a professional opportunity,” said Caldwell on Brick x Brick. “So it’s just being a pro at everything I do, man. The way that I train, the way that I practice, the way that I live, the way I eat. Taking that professional mindset, applying it here while I’m a senior, and just dominate. So that’s all I can do. And then I try to spread that energy to my teammates.”

That drive is a defining trait of the former West Charlotte High School standout, who arrived at JCSU with big goals and has steadily grown into a leader both on and off the field. Since joining the Golden Bulls, Brevin Caldwell has developed into one of the CIAA’s premier receivers. Over the past two seasons, he has posted multiple 100-yard games and has consistently been one of the top targets in the conference thanks to his route discipline, sure hands, and ability to stretch the field.

“I feel like we pieced it together (last year), man. We found ways to beat really good opponents, obviously let two slip away at the very end. But, you know, that’s what this year is for.” Caldwell has some unfinished business on the personal side too, as his omission from the AFCA DII All-America team is also fueling the 6 foot 1, 185 lb receiver during the offseason. “I feel like I missed out on All-American last year. I was AFCA All-Region. One out of eight guys and four guys got selected for All-American. I wasn’t, you know, a part of the cut.”

CIAA’s Best

During his time at JCSU, Caldwell has built a reputation as one of the top wideouts in the conference. Known for his precise route-running and strong hands, he’s been a consistent threat in the Golden Bulls’ offense. In his career, Caldwell has totaled 180 receptions for 2,286 yards and 14 touchdowns. His standout 2024 performance earned him First team All-CIAA honors and Team Offensive MVP.

But this spring, with a new quarterback under center, the stakes—and potential—are even higher. Enter Fort Valley State transfer Kelvin Durham, one of the top Division II HBCU football quarterbacks in the country. The dynamic dual-threat veteran brings a versatile skill set and big-play ability to the JCSU offense. Caldwell and Durham have already begun to develop chemistry. Developing a connection could be the key to unlocking the full potential of the Golden Bulls’ passing attack in 2025.

Brevin Caldwell on Brick x Brick with JCSU Football | Spring Ball ’25 | First Day Out

“I’ve taken it upon myself to hone in on that chemistry. All the hours that aren’t seen behind closed doors. As soon as he got here, he hit me up. And, you know, we’ve been working ever since. He’s a great natural passer, man, the touch on the deep balls. I mean, I don’t think it gets too much better.”

Caldwell’s attitude seems to resonate with his coaches and teammates as well. He sets a standard for what it means to be a senior leader at an HBCU football program.

“This year, you know, especially this spring is just focusing on the little things that I feel like I could have done better last season. Everybody’s trying to fine-tune their game before the fall. But, you know, I’m here on a mission. Like I said, it’s a professional mindset, and so I’m trying to get myself ready for the pro level, you know. And I know taking those little steps, you know, everything every day is our is our motto. That’s how I’m going to get there. ” Caldwell says in the premiere episode of a special four-episode Spring Ball ’25 season of the ‘HBCU Hard Knocks’ style series on HBCU Gameday.

Brick x Brick, produced by Filmmaker and HBCU Gameday Partner Wali Pitt, gives fans an all-access look into the culture, grind, and brotherhood of JCSU football. As Caldwell anchors the first episode, his journey reflects the dedication, resilience, and pride found within the HBCU sports community. New episodes of Brick x Brick with JCSU Football premiere weekly on the HBCUGameday.com homepage, the Gameday app, and the HBCU Gameday YouTube Channel. Brick x Brick will also air on Fox Soul, Sundays at 7 PM as part of on HBCU Gameday’s flagship show on the Fox affiliated network.

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Coach Rome, who played collegiately at the University of North Carolina, was chosen from a competitive pool of over 230 applicants that included former NFL players and coaches at every level. But what set him apart was his proven ability to build and elevate programs at HBCUs, along with his commitment to mentorship and community engagement.

“Being selected to build Chicago State’s football program is an honor, and I’m grateful for the trust that President Scott, Dr. Carroll and the entire university have placed in me,” said Rome. “Our visions are aligned. We’re not just building a football team—we’re building something that reflects the pride of the South Side and draws from the legacy of HBCU excellence.”

CSU Athletic Director Dr. Monique Carroll echoed the excitement. “When we began this journey, we were committed to finding a leader who understands not only football, but the cultural and community significance of what we’re doing,” she said. “Coach Rome’s HBCU background and success made him the ideal fit for this role. Today is a historic day for CSU and for Chicago.”

As part of CSU’s vision to bring football to the South Side, an exploratory committee featuring community leaders, former Chicago Bears, high school coaches, and business leaders helped shape the direction of the new program. That spirit of inclusion will continue as Rome begins laying the foundation for the team.

“The future starts now,” said Coach Rome. “Chicago is getting a Division I football team, and it will be rooted in the spirit, culture, and pride that HBCUs have championed for generations. We are ready to get going.”

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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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TJ Madlock was fouled with 12.4 seconds left and missed the front end of a one-and-one that could have broken the 68-68 tie. However, Saint Francis turned the ball over on the ensuing possession giving Alabama State the ball back with 3.4 seconds remaining. Alabama State threw the ball the length of the court for a wild play that ended up with the ball being tipped to Amarr Knox, who made the game-winning layup with 1 second remaining.

The play was one of many dramatic finishes in this year’s tournament, which was won by the University of Florida on Monday night. So did the play merit a spot in the prestigious “One Shining Moment” recap video that airs at the conclusion of the tournament?

One Shining Moment answer

Yes it did.

The play was edited down to five seconds and can be seen from the- 38-:43 second mark of the 3:02 long video. Mathematically speaking, 2.75 percent of the video featured Alabama State. So as it stands the official visual story of the 2025 NCAA Tournament can not be told without including the champions from the SWAC. You can see the video here.

Knox was featured in an Alabama State jersey in the storied video but we may never see him in the SWAC or HBCU basketball again. A week after hitting the game-winning shot Knox entered the transfer portal. The latest check of his social media accounts doesn’t have any information about Knox committing to a new school. He can return to Alabama State if he chooses but the expectation in today’s basketball culture is that he will not.

But for One Shining Moment, Amarr Knox and the Alabama State Hornets left us with one final reminder of 2025 that an HBCU can create its own magic in the Madness of March.

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There’s a prevailing narrative in college athletics that equal investment should automatically mean equal treatment — regardless of outcomes, market interest, or sustainability. It’s a narrative rooted in good intentions but one that often ignores the economic and biological realities that shape how the public consumes sports. As someone who is leading an HBCU institution that proudly supports women’s athletics — including hiring the first woman Athletics Director in the 158-year history of Edward Waters University — I believe in women’s sports. And I believe in investing in them. But I also believe in honest, data-driven leadership.

At Edward Waters University, we’ve made historic strides. We’ve launched brand-new women’s athletic programs in golf, tennis, and soccer — all firsts for our HBCU institution. Women’s flag football is next on the horizon, and we’re building the infrastructure to support it. These aren’t symbolic gestures. They’re real investments backed by real commitment — and they reflect our belief that women deserve the opportunity to compete, develop, and win.

But belief in equity shouldn’t mean we ignore reality. The simple fact is that, to date, men’s collegiate athletics — particularly football and basketball — generate the lion’s share of revenue that funds not just men’s sports but also women’s programs, scholarships, facilities, and operations. This isn’t sexism — it’s economics.

Yes, biology plays a role. Men and women are built differently, and on average, men have greater physical explosiveness, which creates a different kind of spectator experience. Yes, culture also plays a role. Boys are encouraged to play sports from a young age. That’s changing — slowly — and should continue to evolve. But even in the most gender-progressive societies, men still participate in and consume sports at higher rates than women. That matters.

Dr. Ivana Rich, EWU Director of Athletics, left, with EWU President Dr. A. Zachary Faison.

This doesn’t mean women’s sports shouldn’t be funded or promoted—quite the opposite. But it does mean we must think strategically, not sentimentally. Equal treatment doesn’t mean equal spending—it means providing the resources and support commensurate with each sport’s current and potential reach.

For example, women’s collegiate basketball is undeniably surging in popularity — and it has earned every bit of that spotlight through extraordinary talent, storytelling, and competitive excellence. The numbers don’t lie: record-breaking television ratings, sellout crowds, and a surge in mainstream media coverage are all clear indicators of a sport with real market traction. That’s not charity — that’s ROI. It’s time for the NCAA and its corporate partners to respond with real, sustained financial investment and to move decisively toward full parity in the women’s tournament experience — in facilities, marketing, media coverage, and fan engagement. Women’s college basketball student-athletes, their fans, and the stakeholders of the women’s game deserve a championship experience that reflects the quality of the product and the passion of its audience.

My passion for equity in women’s athletics is deeply tied to my broader commitment to justice and opportunity as the president of Edward Waters University — Florida’s first HBCU and a forerunner in access and social uplift. HBCU institutions like ours have always stood at the forefront of challenging inequity and expanding opportunity, often doing more with less. That legacy demands that we not only speak about fairness but that we lead by example. In the same way we’ve fought for access and dignity for Black students, we must also advocate for the full recognition and investment in women’s athletics — particularly for women of color who too often remain on the margins of both visibility and support.

That balance — between principled support and pragmatic stewardship — is where real leadership lives. I will continue to champion women’s athletics not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because I believe in their transformative power when given a real chance to flourish. We can support women’s sports with authenticity and intention without ignoring the economic realities that undergird the business of high-level collegiate and professional athletics.

True equity is not about ignoring differences — it’s about honoring excellence wherever it rises and ensuring that when women show the world they can compete, we’re not the ones standing in the way. The time for performative action is over. The time for real investment — grounded in data, driven by results, and fueled by belief — is now.

A. Zachary Faison Jr., J.D. 

President & CEO 

Edward Waters University 

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BALTIMORE, Md. – The Penn Relays Carnival is gearing up to celebrate a new class of legends. It is announcing the inductees for its prestigious 2025 Wall of Fame. This year’s honorees comprise four exceptional individuals and two remarkable relay teams, including a record-breaking HBCU relay team from Morgan State. Their contributions to the Carnival have left an indelible mark on the event’s rich history. 

The formal induction ceremony is set to be a highlight of the 2025 Penn Relays. It will take place on the final day, Saturday, April 26th, at the iconic Franklin Field. Providing a fitting stage to recognize and celebrate these athletes’ outstanding achievements.

Morgan State’s fabled 1950 record-breaking 4×440 yard Championship of America relay team will be inducted into the Penn Relays Wall of Fame. The HBCU foursome consisted of Samuel LaBeach, Robert Tyler, William Brown, and George Rhoden.

Record Breakers

In 1950, Morgan’s sensational quartet ran off with the prize race at the Penn Relay Carnival in the record-breaking time of 3:13.6, breaking the previous Penn Relays record of 3:14.8 that had stood since 1939. The team featured LaBeach (49.9), Tyler (48.7), Brown (47.5), and Rhoden (47.5), giving Morgan its first victory at the Penn Relays and vindicated themselves for a disqualification that had deprived them of the same honor in 1949.

In 1949, the Morgan foursome’s track prowess was undeniable, having decisively outpaced a formidable field, including Cornell, NYU, Georgetown, Army, Manhattan, and Villanova. However, a controversial ruling snatched victory from their grasp. Despite finishing behind the Morgan team. NYU was awarded the win based on a claim that LaBeach, a member of the Morgan quartet, had illegally used his hands on the initial turn. Allegedly jeopardizing his team’s qualification. The sting of the decision was amplified by the significant margin of victory. NYU, timed at 3:15.6, trailed the Bears by approximately 20 yards. Giving rise to the presumption Morgan must have done close to a 3.14 for their triumph.

After Morgan’s 1950 breakthrough victory, the Bears established a dynasty, claiming four more 4×440 titles over the next 32 years.  This period solidified Morgan’s reputation as a sprinting relay national powerhouse in collegiate track throughout the 1950s.

Nationwide Attention

The HBCU team continued to win at the prestigious Melrose Games in New York City and other meets throughout the country. The historic four ran a 3:09.4 at the Los Angeles Coliseum Relays, two seconds off the World Record. Morgan State College gained widespread recognition. Sports Illustrated, Time Magazine, Ebony Magazine, and the Afro-American Newspaper featured the team in their publications. The foursome became goodwill ambassadors for Morgan, both nationally and internationally.

The Penn Relays Wall of Fame was created in 1994 to celebrate the Carnival’s 100th running. The class of 2025 brings the number of inductees to 130 individuals and 117 relay teams. This year’s individuals and relay squads were selected by a panel of Penn Relays experts. Inductees are honored solely for their accomplishments at the Penn Relays; achievements in any other meets are not considered. The Penn Relays office will accept nominations of relay teams and individuals at any time and from any interested party. 

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Here’s how the HBCU trail unfolds: Mississippi Valley State, an HBCU in the SWAC, defeated fellow HBCU Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Pine Bluff then beat Texas Southern, another proud HBCU program. Texas Southern took down Alabama A&M, another SWAC HBCU, who then beat Coastal Carolina. From there, the chain runs through Georgia State, Tulsa, and Temple before reaching Memphis, which beat Missouri—who, incredibly, handed Florida one of its rare losses during the season.

So, by the twisted logic of “team A beat team B” all the way up the ladder, Mississippi Valley State—again, the 364th team out of 364—can lay a humorous, if entirely unofficial, claim to being part of the national title conversation.

This chaotic chain reminds us of the deep interconnectedness of college basketball and how, on any given night, even a struggling HBCU can topple a giant—or at least someone who eventually helps topple a giant. While it doesn’t change the standings, it highlights the competitive spirit alive across all levels, including the HBCU ranks.

In a season where parity ruled and madness reigned, it’s only fitting that four different HBCUs helped form a chain that connects college basketball’s basement to its summit.

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Alex Valbuena, a 6-foot, 275-pound offensive lineman from Antioch, Tennessee, has been a dedicated member of the Tennessee State University (TSU) Tigers football team. After redshirting his freshman year in 2022, Valbuena played as a redshirt freshman in 2023 and continued as a redshirt sophomore in 2024. Throughout his tenure, he has worn jersey number 51 and primarily played the guard position. Notably, Valbuena started in the game against Southeast Missouri State on November 23, 2024. Prior to his collegiate career, he attended Lipscomb Academy in Nashville, where he earned first-team all-conference and all-state honors.

300 pound plus commitment for Jackson State

Ace Meadows, a 6-foot-7, 310-pound offensive lineman from Trenton, Tennessee, began his football journey at Peabody High School. There, he distinguished himself as a top offensive lineman recruit, earning recognition on the All-West Tennessee high school football team in 2023. In December 2023, Meadows committed to TSU, influenced by the leadership of head coach Eddie George, whom he described as “one of the most humble men I’ve ever met.” Meadows entered TSU as a freshman in 2024.

In the 2024 season, the Tennessee State Tigers’ offense demonstrated a balanced approach, averaging 190.0 rushing yards and 165.5 passing yards per game, culminating in an average of 355.5 total yards per game. The team scored 28 touchdowns—17 rushing and 10 passing—contributing to a total of 220 points for the season.

Eddie George left Tennessee State at the end of the 2024 season to take the head coaching job at Bowling Green. Jackson State won the 2024 HBCU National Championship with a victory over South Carolina State.

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 “They’re doing some things when it comes to the resources they have and what they’re trying to build up. That’s the name of the game now. Kids want to be paid and it’s not as much about the other stuff like it was. The dynamic is changing,” Jackson told the paper. “That’s not to say GSU wasn’t willing to do it.” 

When pressed, however, Jackson suggested Grambling State’s stance on NIL, revenue sharing, pay-for-play, etc. were all still unclear. 

“It was described to me that, ‘Oh, well we’re doing a study, and we’ll see what we can do,” Jackson said. “But to be honest, I don’t know what it looked like going forward. I never got an exact answer on how that would work. It was up in the air. Like I said, they were doing a study.”

Jackson coached at Grambling State for eight seasons after being hired by Dr. Paul Bryant — the same man who just hired him at Alabama A&M. He did go out of his way to try to quiet any rumors of bad blood between himself and his former boss, GSU AD Treyvean Scott.

“He helped me elevate the program to its highest point ever. I have no problem with him. He’s a good man,” Jackson said. “I felt like we worked well together. It was a tough decision to leave.”

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THE HILL I Alabama A&M University (AAMU) Athletics and Deloitte’s U.S. College Athletics practice have entered into a groundbreaking alliance, marking the first collaboration of its kind between Deloitte and a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). This innovative alliance will position Alabama A&M Athletics for long-term success by sharpening its strategic vision and enhancing its fundraising capabilities.

Deloitte, recognized as the world’s largest professional services firm, will work closely with AAMU Athletics leadership, coaches, and university stakeholders to define strategic priorities that align with the department’s long-term vision and establish a high-level implementation action plan to drive measurable progress. In addition, Deloitte will review and analyze the current state of Alabama A&M’s fundraising operations and develop a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen future initiatives.

The strength of the Alabama A&M University and Deloitte brands, combined with a shared commitment to innovation, leadership, and excellence, will guide this alliance. Deloitte’s involvement will ensure that Alabama A&M Athletics remains competitive and well-positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics.

Key areas of focus for Deloitte’s support include, but not limited to:

• Defining strategic priorities aligned with the AAMU Athletics vision
• Establishing a high-level implementation action plan
• Reviewing and analyzing the current state of fundraising operations
• Developing a future-state roadmap with key activities to drive enhanced fundraising outcomes

This alliance underscores Alabama A&M’s commitment to building a championship-caliber athletics program that delivers first-class experiences for its student-athletes, elevates the Bulldog brand nationally, and strengthens the University’s impact throughout Huntsville, the state of Alabama, and beyond.

“This alliance with Deloitte is a transformational step for Alabama A&M Athletics,” said Director of Athletics Dr. Paul A. Bryant. “As the first HBCU to collaborate with Deloitte in this capacity, we are proud to be leading the way. Deloitte’s expertise will help us sharpen our strategic vision, elevate our fundraising efforts, and ensure we are positioned for sustainable success. This is a pivotal moment for our department, our university, and our Bulldog family.”

“We are honored to collaborate with Alabama A&M University Athletics through this historic alliance,” said ShaVonne M. Cammack, Manager, Core Business Operations, Government & Public Services at Deloitte. “At Deloitte, we believe in the power of strategic collaborations to drive meaningful change, and it is especially rewarding to support an institution with such a rich legacy and bright future. Together, we will work to strengthen AAMU’s foundation for growth, innovation, and long-term success.”

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Alabama State led the way with a jaw-dropping 25-9 win over Alabama A&M in a seven-inning game on Saturday, capping off a sweep in which the Hornets scored 49 runs in total across three games. Bethune-Cookman also showed consistency at the plate, defeating Mississippi Valley State with double-digit outputs in two of three games, including a 15-5 victory on Saturday.

Florida A&M swept Jackson State while scoring 11 runs in back-to-back games after a more modest 7-3 win to open the series. Texas Southern erupted for 20 runs in one of its two wins over Alcorn State, showcasing serious offensive depth.

Runs show up in Rivalries

Even one of the top HBCU rivalries—Grambling State vs. Southern—was packed with fireworks. Southern edged out Grambling in two high-scoring affairs, 15-14 and 16-12, solidifying the Jaguars as one of the hottest hitting teams in the league. Southern’s Cardell Thibodeaux is the second-leading batter in NCAA Division I baseball with a .470 batting average.

There were only three games where the winning team didn’t reach double figures: Florida A&M beating Jackson State 7-3, Texas Southern with a 5-1 win over Alcorn State and Bethune-Cookman’s 6-5 win over Mississippi Valley State.

Four of the top 50 NCAA D1 teams in batting average are from the SWAC: Alabama State (13th, .322), Mississippi Valley State (33rd, .310), Southern University (40th, .308), Bethune-Cookman (41st, .308).

With SWAC play heating up, this weekend’s scoring spree signals a shift in momentum toward teams with elite hitting depth—and serves as a warning to any pitching staff not on top of its game.

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“All you’ve got to do is spot the ball with this team,” said head coach T.C. Taylor. “They’ll get after it anywhere.”

JSU, coming off a 2024 Celebration Bowl championship, are already focused on the 2025 season, which opens at home against Hampton on August 30. Senior quarterback Jacobian Morgan, who passed for 2,236 yards and 21 touchdowns last season, led first-team reps during the scrimmage. Though Morgan is the likely starter, competition remains with returners Cam’Ron McCoy, Parker Stofa, Ethan Terrell, and transfer Tyreke Starks. Taylor said another quarterback will transfer in this summer.

Replacing standout running back Irv Mulligan (1,245 yards, 13 TDs) won’t be easy, but Jackson State has depth. 2024 SWAC Freshman of the Year Travis Terrell Jr. took most of the first-team reps. He posted over 1,400 all-purpose yards last season. Emari Matthews and Nate Blount IV are also expected to contribute, as Taylor mentioned six to seven backs are in the mix.

Defensively, JSU returns key pieces like lineman Jeremiah Williams and linebacker Reid Pulliam. The unit ranked among the SWAC’s best in 2024, forcing 24 turnovers and recording 37 sacks. Transfers Khamauri Rogers (Mississippi State) and Carmelo Jones (Baylor) add to an already strong defense.

“We’re catching on fast,” Williams said. “We get better every day.”

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Salisbury, NC | Livingstone College opened its first Home Depot Innovations Lounge on March 26 in the W. J. Walls Student Center. Livingstone President Dr. Anthony J. Davis welcomed HBCU students into the new space, which was the College’s former student center. The space is outfitted with new furniture and technology and has dedicated spaces for student collaboration.

“I am moved, truly moved to see the students here today…this is what it’s all about,” Davis said. “On the campus of Livingstone College, one of the things that we are definitely being intentional about is making sure that our students are our first priority.”

One of Few

According to Dr. Orlando Lewis, Livingstone’s Vice President for Student Affairs, “this is the first year that Home Depot offered its student innovation lounge program grant. We were one of a few colleges to receive it.” The $59,000 grant included $34,000
 for renovations – including new flooring, doors, and freshly painted walls – and a $25,000 furniture package.

This is not the first time the HBCU has received funding from Home Depot’s “Retool Your School” program grant. In 2018, the college received $30,000 to renovate its campus pavilion and another $30,000 in 2021 to develop and implement a high-profile Podcast
 Café, the first of its kind in the State of North Carolina.

Lewis added that this year’s grant guarantees student internships and scholarships, providing them with opportunities for growth and learning. “This will become a lounge for students to innovate, ideate, and collaborate,” Lewis said.

The space also features a commissioned mural painted by artist Phillip Osborne to represent all sides of the student experience at Livingstone.

“I just wanted to embody the many different elements within the innovation center as well as the college itself,” said Osborne, who incorporated some of the most important experiences of HBCU student life: academics, football, civic engagement, Greek life,
 and extracurricular activities.

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The Gaines Center opened next door in 1978, with a seating capacity of 2,500 – and a student body that was already just over 2,000. Just like its older counterpart, Gaines Center was incapable of accommodating swollen crowds against rivals – which in those days included North Carolina A&T as well as North Carolina Central – meaning WSSU would once again be forced to use the Coliseum at least a few times a year.

When Winston-Salem State attempted to move up to Division I during Turner’s tenure in the mid-2000s, WSSU rarely played games in the Gaines Center. Most of its games were played 15 minutes away at the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum or at the smaller annex complex, which seats 4,000. After that move failed, the department of athletics moved to almost exclusively playing games on campus in the Gaines Center. 

However, the resurgence of the men’s basketball program during the Cleo Hill Jr. era meant crowds of students lined up hours prior to basketball double-headers for contests against CIAA rivals. Alumni and other supporters often found themselves waiting outside to get in, often having to be turned away from the stuffy gymnasium. Twice in the past three basketball seasons, WSSU has had to rent the LJVM Coliseum, which is now owned by Wake Forest University.

In addition to athletics, a gymnasium/arena could also alleviate the need for the HBCU to rent out the coliseum for its commencement ceremonies.

The effective date for the bill is July 1, 2025, should it pass the NC legislature. 

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“I don’t think Jackson State or Colorado had a winning history before I got there,” Sanders told the media. “It’s just another day in the office, another year in the office for me. It’s the same thing over and over and that’s what I enjoy about it. Because I understand how to approach different situations and what to do different.”

While anyone who knows anything about HBCU football in particular and college football in general knows that Jackson State’s program DOES have a long-term winning history, it’s recent history prior his arrival with his father Deion Sanders wasn’t very good. JSU had a 15-19 record in the four seasons prior to Shedeur Sanders becoming its star quarterback. Sanders took over the team as starting quarterback upon arrival and led JSU to a 23-3 record with back-to-back SWAC titles in 2021 and 2022.

Sanders, of course, then left Jackson State to join his father at Colorado. He turned around another proud college program that had an even worse record over its preceding four seasons, going 15-33 before Sanders showed up. Colorado went 13-12 as Shedeur Sanders played even better at the highest level of college football than he had at an HBCU.

Records aside, Sanders’ focus is getting prepared for his professional career as he looks to be one of the top players taken in the NFL Draft.

“I’m just thankful for the opportunity and whoever drafts me — whatever pick — it truly don’t matter to me. Because I know in myself who I am and I know what I bring to the table,” Sanders said. “So whoever sees the value in that will be very lucky to get me.” 

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With a hoard of re-aligning, transfers, and coaching changes, the SIAC is virtually wide open this season.  Albany State wants to stake its claim on the title by rebuilding and improving the program.  With a solid core of veterans, Quinn Gray could be in a position to return Albany State to the pinnacle of the SIAC, which was last reached by Gabe Giardina.

The ASU Coliseum was the site of the Blue & Gold game. It was a festive atmosphere as the university was hosting an open house for visiting families interested in attending the plush southern Georgia campus. With a full squad of cheerleaders and an impressive 346-member band playing, it was the perfect opportunity for the players to display what they had worked on for 15 days.

The first half belonged to the “Dirty Blue” defense.  Led by cornerback Deven Foster, the defense thwarted most attempts by the offense.  It would lead to the offense only scoring on field goals in the first half.  Foster picked off a pass and ran it down to the offense’s one-yard line before being tackled.

The second half belonged to the offense. All-SIAC quarterback Isaiah Knowles got things in gear, and the offense scored some touchdowns. Uncharacteristically, Quinn Gray had all quarterbacks except Knowles as live targets in the game.  

Albany State senior kicker Kyle Wright was spot-on all game.  He nailed every field goal attempt and did a great job performing in swirling wind conditions.  “Kyle has done a tremendous job for us in the kicking game when it comes down to field goals and putting points on the board when we aren’t able to put the ball in the end zone,” Gray said.   “He understands situations and what his role is when it comes down to putting points on the board. We call him Mr. Automatic.”

Gray commended the play of his team as he used the Spring to evaluate the talent and what holes might need to be filled for the Fall.  “Defense played a tremendous first half today and rightfully so.  We’ve been at each other all spring and, and here in the Blue and Gold game we really just simplified a lot of things and didn’t, really call everything that we could simply because it is on national TV but at the end of the day, we had enough in that we can put on a good show for the folks and then also get the work that we were trying to get, but defense flew around, pretty good,” Gray said.

Gray went on to explain the live quarterbacks in the game.  Knowles wore a white jersey to indicate that he was not live, but backups were in play.  “We wanted to make the quarterbacks besides Isaiah live because you’re talking about, Jayden Kenney who played his last meaningful snap in high school in fall of 2023.  So with that you’re talking about a guy who hadn’t really seen or felt the hit in a year and a half.  So we wanted to make those, those two guys live just to see how they react and what they do with the football in terms of decision making.  It was fairly good for us obviously there’s some things we need to clean up, but overall I’m happy with the way it turned out most importantly we’re healthy,” Gray said.

Quinn Gray has overhauled his defensive line position with a coach he experienced at both Delaware State and Alcorn State.  “Damon Francis came over from, Fort Valley, who was, who was with myself, Coach Cash, and Matt Brown at Alcorn State, back in 2021.  Francis has been doing this for the last 30 plus years.  His mindset and the way he coaches and the way he teaches our guys has our guys playing with a different mindset in terms of how we attack and I think we did too much thinking versus reacting and attacking last year and I and it’s evident in what you see on the field now,” Gray Concluded

With the era of coaches and players moving around fluidly on all NCAA levels, the landscape of college football has rapidly changed, and that holds true for Division II as well.  Gray has a philosophy in dealing with all that is going on. “As the cliche, you gotta focus on you, right?  We can’t necessarily focus on what’s going on in and around the SIAC.  We can only handle what we’ve got in front of us, and that’s an opportunity for us to get better as a team with our spring season,” Gray concluded.

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A former top-100 recruit from DeSoto High School in Texas, Powell initially committed to Arkansas before enrolling at NCAT, becoming the highest-rated prospect in the history of the Greensboro, North Carolina, HBCU.

Powell redshirted his first year (2021-22) due to injury and debuted in the 2022-23 season. He played 30 games, averaging 8.0 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, earning a spot on the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) All-Rookie Team. Notably, he recorded double-doubles against Hampton and Towson and scored a season-high 20 points against College of Charleston. ?

Seeking new opportunities, Powell transferred to Sacramento State for the 2023-24 season. There, he led the Hornets with 12.1 points and 7.0 rebounds per game, starting 23 of 29 games. His performance included the program’s second Division I-era triple-double with 13 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists against Bethesda. ?

In June 2024, Powell joined Georgia Tech, bringing two years of eligibility to the Yellow Jackets. During the 2024-25 season, he made significant contributions, including a career-high 26 points and six three-pointers in a victory over Pittsburgh on February 25, 2025. Throughout the season, Powell maintained averages of 12.2 points and 5.4 rebounds per game, demonstrating his ability to compete at the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) level.

Reinhart reports that the $750K NIL signing is roughly 30 percent of the Hoyas’ NIL funds.

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Airing live on ESPN2, Johnson dropped a game high 21 points on 9-of-13 shooting, adding four rebounds and two steals to her totals to win the game’s MVP award.

Johnson scored her first four points of the game early on in the second quarter, highlighted by a fastbreak layup to give Team Miller a 24-23 lead. She put the team on her back midway through the second half, scoring back-to-back baskets that included a steal and layup.

The HBCU guard shined in the fourth quarter, scoring five straight points highlighted by an and-one layup with 8:47 left in the game.

Johnson kept the scoring spree going, knocking one in from way behind the 3-point line to give Team Miller a 66-56 lead.

Johnson followed it up by draining the game-winning 3-pointer from the right side of the arc, allowing team Miller to pick up a 71-59 win.

The former NC State star finished her career in historic fashion at the HBCU, winning back-to-back MEAC titles and winning conference player of the year honors at Norfolk State.

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The sound at the Albany State University Coliseum was greater than it has ever been.  At Saturday’s Blue & Gold Game, William T. Brooks surprised the crowd with a spectacle usually reserved for an HBCU from the Division I ranks.

Midway in the first quarter of play the band made its entrance.  They started coming down the traditional hill between the Jones Brothers HPER Building and the stadium….and they kept coming…and kept coming.  In all 346-pieces participated with the Albany State Marching Rams Show Band.

It even caught the attention of ASU head coach Quinn Gray as he was trying to concentrate on the field, but the roaring sound of this massive band had the attention of everyone at the stadium.  “That gave us a little bit of energy as well because you get energy from the band and from the fans.  With those 300+ kids, they sounded absolutely amazing,” Gray said.

Brooks expanded the band for the day by making it a community band and inviting other high schools and middle schools to perform with them.  “I’m big on community and I wanted to reach out to our area and actually extend beyond our area just to get high school kids here on our campus so they could see some of the great things we have to offer here at Albany State University,” Brooks said.  “Multiple students answered the call and we ended up with the product that you see here today.  We’ve got 346 people here today.”

Understanding the HBCU experience

The band was the talk of the game.  Rehearsing on the morning before the game, you could hear them clear across campus from about 9:00AM until they marched into the stadium.  They were versed in some of the songs the ASU Marching Ram Show Band normally persons as well as the ASU “Get Buck” chant they perform with the ASU cheerleaders.

The ASU players commended the band on raising the entire energy of the game.  

Brooks was overwhelmed with the response to his call to participate by local musicians.  “36 different schools participated, not just high schools but middle schools as well.  346 students combined is the biggest band I’ve ever been in front of,” Brooks concluded.

Gray hinted at but stopped short of saying, what the sound of the band reminded him of.  “It took me back to another place…”. Gray is an HBCU graduate from Florida A&M University.

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Armstead, 33, announced the news at a party he hosted in Miami with several former teammates in attendance.

Terron Armstead had been one of the NFL’s premier offensive tackles since entering the league in 2013. Drafted in the third round (75th overall) by the New Orleans Saints from UAPB. Armstead quickly earned a reputation for his elite athleticism, technique, and leadership. A standout at the 2013 NFL Combine, Armstead turned heads by running a 4.71-second 40-yard dash — a rare feat for a 6-foot-5, 300-plus-pound lineman.

During his nine-year tenure with the Saints, Armstead became a cornerstone of one of the league’s most potent offenses. He protected future Hall of Famer Drew Brees‘ blind side and earned three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018 to 2020. His agility and power made him a nightmare for pass rushers and a reliable presence in both the pass and run game.

Despite battling multiple injuries throughout his career, Armstead’s resilience and toughness have been widely praised. In 2022, he signed with the Miami Dolphins, bringing veteran leadership and much-needed stability to their offensive line. He played a key role in the Dolphins’ offensive resurgence, helping to protect quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and paving lanes for a dynamic rushing attack.

Armstead is known for his philanthropy and community engagement, off the field, particularly through initiatives aimed at youth development and education. He remains an inspiration to HBCU athletes, proving that talent, hard work, and determination can lead to success at the highest level.

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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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Morgan State and Miles College will clash on Sept. 27 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. It marks the first time both teams will play in the longtime HBCU classic. The bands — Purple Marching Machine and the Magnificent Marching Machine — will also join their respective teams for the popular HBCU showdown.

Alice Watson, the president and CEO of Indiana Black Expo, said that it is important “now more than ever to bring HBCU talent and exposure to the Midwest.”

“We hope that alumni and new fans alike will come out to Lucas Oil Stadium to support not only the tradition of the HBCU football game but also celebrate the talented bands,” Watson said in a press release.

In the 2024 campaign, Morgan State finished 6-6 and 3-2 in Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference play while Miles notched an unprecedented season. The Golden Bears finished 14-3 including a perfect 12-0 mark in Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference action. Miles made a second round appearance in the NCAA Division II playoffs and finished with a national ranking for the first time in program history. 

This season, former NFL’s Indianapolis Colts player Chris Goode will enter his first year at the helm of the Golden Bears’ program after former head coach Sam Shade departed Miles to become the football coach at Alabama A&M.

North Carolina Central played in the last two editions of the Circle City Classic. Last season, NCCU defeated Norfolk State 37-10.

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DSU president Tony Allen believes the state’s aid will increase the visibility and competitive spirit of the university’s athletics despite the Donald Trump administration’s sweeping efforts across the nation to slash federal education programs. Allen also said today’s college athletics landscape plays a significant role in raising a university’s profile.

“It’s a new era for DSU Athletics,” Allen said, per WDEL 1150AM in Wilmington, Delaware. “People ask me all the time ‘why should we be focused on athletics?’ It’s because it’s the front porch of the university.”

Marquee Coaches

When Allen suggested his plan in the Capital Improvement Committee Budget hearing, it called for a university bond bill for $25 million this year to build an indoor field house as the first of the three-way plan. The facility would include offices for coaches, football locker rooms and a 50-yard turf field with hopes of helping DSU recruit better players to its programs after the university made marquee coaching hires in acquiring former NFL wide receiver DeSean Jackson — the Hornets football coach — and former three-year outfielder MLB Pedro Swann, who serves as baseball coach at the HBCU.

While Jackson — who was hired by DSU on Dec. 27 — has recruited solid players, the longtime Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver said the recruiting process has been difficult due to the team’s lacking facility infrastructure.

“It’s kind of shaming to be able to be in a position where you’re at a Division I school and I can’t brag about our facilities,” Jackson said, per WDEL.

Delaware State University plans to construct the field house using the $25 million in bond bill money as well as through other donations to the university. The second phase of the plan seeks to renovate Alumni Stadium and the DSU Downtown/Wesley athletic facilities. The university’s satellite branch in downtown Dover plans to request $10 million in state aid for the renovations, according to WDEL.

Bob Reed Field

Currently, the Hornets play their baseball games at Bob Reed Field. DSU previously hosted its games at its baseball complex. However, the Hornets elected to move away from playing games at their complex to hold games at Wesley — former home of Division III Wesley College that is now DSU Downtown and allowing the HBCU to build a new agriculture building where its complex existed.

Swann, who is in his first season at DSU, said the HBCU baseball field is “way below standards.”

“Our kids work hard every day trying to maintain the field and make the best of what we have,” Swann said, per WDEL. “It’s disheartening every time we go on the road and just see how much better the facility can be when we play amongst our peers.”

The final phase of the proposal includes a state-of-the-art convocation center, combining an indoor arena and conference space in one venue, similar to what is in place inside the Bob Carpenter Center at the University of Delaware. However, if approved, the third phase would not begin until 2027 at the earliest.

DOGE Delay

While several of the state’s lawmakers voiced that DSU has been abandoned and that Dover needs better facilities to become a sports town, state Rep. Debra Heffernan (D-Bellefonte) — the bond committee’s vice chair — said the timing of DSU’s plan is a “year or two” behind due to the effects of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

“I caution that our financial landscape for Bond (Bill) has, at least at this point, does not look as promising as it had for a couple of years previously,” Heffernan said, per WDEL. “So that’s unfortunate that the [DSU] request doesn’t come at a time when we have extra money to invest in these excellent projects.”

Budget restraints led Delaware Gov. Matt Mayer to decrease his funding for DSU’s capital improvements from $20 million—the initial amount under former Gov. John Carey—to $14 million.

Even though the bond committee concluded its budget hearings this week, the committee plans to settle on which programs will receive money before June 30.

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This week’s big headline was Trump’s threat to cut funding for a popular cultural institution. In his political cross hairs is the National History Museum of African-American History and Culture in Washington, D.C.  In Trump’s March 27 executive order, he contends that “improper, divisive or anti-American ideology.”  “Once widely respected as a symbol of American excellence and a global icon of cultural achievement, the Smithsonian Institution has, in recent years, come under the influence of a divisive, race-centered ideology,” Trump stated.

For years FAMU’s College of Pharmacy has maintained a grant for the National Institute of Health (NIH). The research studies unique treatments of cancer, enhanced study of AI, and several other key areas of study.  The grant also provided additional staffing for the school.  The sudden loss of $16.3 million that was budgeted for by the university presents a critical set of issues.  Donald Trump rescinded the award with his executive order on March 21.

Program dates back to the 1980s

According to an article on the FAMU College of Pharmacy Website, the program was instituted in 1985. The Research Centers in Minority Institutions (RCMI Program at FAMU was established through a grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Center for Research Resources (NCRR) as a congressionally mandated program to support minority institutions. In 2012, the RCMI Program was transferred to the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The RCMI Program had a tremendous impact on enhancing the research capacity and infrastructure at FAMU. It recruited promising researchers and established research infrastructure by acquiring advanced instrumentation, developing innovative biomedical research laboratories, funding research facilities, and providing other research support.

The sudden absence of those funds has placed a sense of urgency into FAMU’s own fundraising efforts.  The announcement of the cuts was made just days before FAMU’s annual fundraising campaign known as “1887 Strikes.”  FAMU was founded in 1887.  FAMU Interim President, Dr. Timothy Beard, encouraged Rattlers to dig deeper as the cuts will harm the HBCU.  The university has since appealed the decision.

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THE HILL | Alabama A&M University President Dr. Daniel K. Wims and Director of Athletics Dr. Paul A. Bryant welcomed new AAMU head men’s basketball coach Donte’ Jackson during an introductory press conference at the Alabama A&M University Event Center on the campus of the HBCU.
 
“We welcome a coach with an outstanding resume, one that has won at the highest levels,” Dr. Bryant said.  Jackson, who has compiled a 263-185 career record in 15 seasons, is a three-time Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Coach of the Year honoree, guiding Grambling State to three regular-season conference titles in eight seasons, including a trip to the 2024 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. 

Excited to be on the Hill

“I’m incredibly thankful to Dr. Wims and Dr. Bryant for this opportunity,” Jackson said. “I am excited to be on The Hill and look forward to bringing a winning culture to this outstanding institution. I’m a program builder. It’s time to build this program into one of the best programs in the SWAC, the state, the region, and the nation…It’s time to build something that Bulldog Nation can be proud of… It’s time to build a winner, a championship program that can compete for titles each year.”
 
Jackson established himself as one of the best coaches in the HBCU conference during his first season at Grambling State. Where he helped the program win its first SWAC Regular Season Championship in nearly 30 years (1988-1989). During the regular season, Grambling State enjoyed the national spotlight as one of the teams in NCAA Division I with the longest winning streak, which reached as high as 11 games before a loss to Arkansas-Pine Bluff.

Success with a Rival

The Tigers reached new highs under Jackson during the 2022-23 HBCU basketball campaign. They finished the season 24-9, tallying their most wins in a single season since joining Division I in 1977.
 
GSU also defeated two Power 5 teams for the first time in school history. Earning wins over Colorado and Vanderbilt. The Tigers won the SWAC Regular Season Title and reached the 2023 SWAC Championship Game. Jackson produced the SWAC Player of the Year in Cameron Christon and won the coveted SWAC Coach of the Year Award.
 
Donte’ Jackson reached the pinnacle of the SWAC during the 2023-24 season, leading GSU to its first-ever SWAC Tournament Championship win and berth in the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament. The Tigers went 21-15 overall and 14-4 in conference play. Grambling State defeated Texas Southern 75-66 in the SWAC Title game. GSU went on to defeat Montana State 88-81 in the NCAA First Four before falling to top-seeded Purdue in the first round.

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Following a national coaching search, Norfolk State University announced on Friday that Jermaine Woods will become the seventh head coach of the HBCU women’s basketball program, pending Board of Visitors approval. A proven leader with experience at several Power Four institutions, Woods will take over the reins of a distinguished group that produced 30 wins during the 2023-24 campaign.
 
“We are very excited to welcome Jermaine Woods to the Norfolk State family to lead our women’s basketball program,” NSU Director of Athletics Dr. Melody Webb said. “Coach Woods’ extensive experience as a head coach, recruiter, and leader has demonstrated his ability to elevate programs to new levels. I am confident that his skills will translate seamlessly to this team, continuing the historic trajectory these young women have set in place. I look forward to watching the Norfolk State community embrace Coach Woods and his family as he steps into this role.”
 
A Chesapeake native and Norfolk State alumnus, Woods boasts 23 years of coaching experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the Norfolk State women’s basketball program. Woods’ journey has included significant time at several ACC institutions (Wake Forest and Virginia Tech), as well as a stint close to home at Old Dominion.
 
“We are so happy for Coach Woods and his family to return to the Hampton-Roads area and continue the tremendous legacy that the Norfolk State women’s basketball program has built,” Norfolk State President Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston said. “He has proven himself to possess an exceptional ability to find and recruit amazing student athletes, mentoring them into the best versions of themselves on and off the court.”
 
“I would also like to personally thank and acknowledge Larry Vickers for all his contributions to Norfolk State women’s basketball,” President Adams-Gaston said. “He transformed the program into a nationally acclaimed dynasty, connecting with Spartan fans throughout his tenure. His impact cannot be overstated, and we remain dedicated to continuing the standard that he created.”
 
Woods comes to Norfolk State after three seasons as the HBCU WBB head coach at Coppin State, leading the Eagles to their winningest season in over a decade. The Eagles secured an appearance in the WNIT Tournament, defeating Saint Joseph’s in the first round for the program’s second-ever postseason victory.

 
“I am thrilled to return home and lead such a distinguished program at Norfolk State University,” Woods said. “I want to thank Dr. Webb for this tremendous opportunity and Dr. Adams-Gaston for her belief and support. This program has surged into the national spotlight, building a winning culture through a consistent and unwavering standard. I cannot wait to meet the team and get to work.”
 
Woods has coached numerous players to extraordinary success while at Coppin State, guiding four HBCU WBB players to All-MEAC First Team selections as well as one All-MEAC Second Team honoree. Woods coached two MEAC Defensive Players of the Year and one MEAC Sixth Player of the Year, cementing himself as one of the best developers of talent in the conference.
 
Woods spent three seasons as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator at Wake Forest, specializing in working with players at the guard position. In his final season with the Demond Deacons, he helped lead the team to a pair of ACC Tournament wins and its first .500+ season since the 2016-17 campaign.
 
Woods worked as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for two seasons at Old Dominion prior to his time in Winsten-Salem. He helped build the Monarchs’ star studded 2016 class, highlighted by an ESPN top 100 prospect.
 
Woods got his NCAA Division I coaching start at Virginia Tech where he recruited the No. 19 ranked class by ESPNW, marking the highest rated recruiting class in program history at the time.
 
As a player, Woods spent one season at Belmont Abbey College before playing his final three seasons at Christopher Newport University. A D3Hoops.com All-American and two-time All-South region selection, Woods was named the league’s Newcomer of the Year and broke the school’s 3-point record as a junior and broke the school’s 3-point record in back-to-back seasons.
 
Norfolk State will hold a press conference to formally introduce Woods as its HBCU WBB head coach at 2 p.m. on Monday, Apr.7.

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Morant’s transfer adds a new chapter to her basketball journey. Which began with a standout high school career and continued with her commitment to play at the Division I level for an HBCU.

High School Career

At Houston High School in Germantown, Tennessee, Teniya showcased her prowess on the basketball court. Standing at 5-foot-3, she played as a senior guard and was instrumental in leading the Mustangs to a 16-6 record during her senior year. She averaged 12.6 points per game, 4.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.4 steals. Notably, she achieved a season-high of 22 points in a decisive 70-45 victory over St. Agnes Academy.

Teniya’s dedication and skill on the court did not go unnoticed. Despite not holding any offers early in her recruiting process, her performance on the court drew national attention. Reminiscent of her brother Ja Morants’ under-the-radar recruitment before his emergence at Murray State.

Commitment to HBCU Basketball

In May 2023, Teniya announced her commitment to Mississippi Valley State University, an HBCU in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). This decision was major for both Morant and the HBCU, as MVSU was the first Division I program to offer her a scholarship in January of that year. Her commitment was met with enthusiasm, especially given her family’s history with HBCU hoops, as her father, Tee Morant, played basketball at Claflin University.

MVSU’s women’s basketball program had faced an uphill battle coming into Morant’s freshman season. The Devilettes finished the previous season with a 2-27 record and a 0-18 standing in the SWAC. Teniya’s addition was seen as a potential catalyst for revitalizing the team’s performance. Her high school coach, Justin Lewis, praised her tenacity and work ethic in an interview with The Commercial Appeal, stating, “They’re getting a tenacious player that gives it her all on the floor. Somebody that’s going to be vocal. She’s going to work hard.”

Teniya Morant appeared in three games during the 2024–25 season for Mississippi Valley State. Logging limited minutes and recording no points, rebounds, or assists. Her time on the court included short stints against Lipscomb, Arkansas State, and Alabama A&M, with a total of just 12 minutes played.

Transition and Current Status

In an Instagram post from April 3rd, 2025, Teniya Morant announced that she had decided to enter the transfer portal and leave the MVSU women’s basketball program.

Teniya Morant’s journey underscores the dynamic nature of collegiate athletics, especially within HBCU programs. Her initial commitment brought hope and excitement to not only MVSU’s women’s basketball but HBCU women’s hoops as a whole. Now, her departure opens conversations about athlete transitions and the factors influencing such decisions.

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SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Norfolk State guard Christian Ings put on a show on national television, winning the State Farm College Slam Dunk Championship at the Frost Bank Center on Thursday night. Airing live on ESPN, the HBCU hoops star showed no fear on the bright stage. The graduate student used a pass from Creighton’s Steven Ashworth off the side off the backboard, corralling and slamming it down emphatically with one hand.

The dunk earned Ings a perfect score of 40 in the first round. Waiting over 30 minutes for his next opportunity, Ings couldn’t get his first two attempts to fall on the next opportunity. He eventually beat the buzzer, doing a 360-spin in the air for a score of 32.
 
Ings kept it going with his second semifinal dunk, third overall. Throwing himself a lob in the middle of the paint, he rose up for a windmill that brought flashbacks to one of his viral moments from the 2024-25 season.

Saving the best for last, Ings gave the crowd the closing act it had waited all night to see. Ings needed just one attempt for this one, jumping over 6 foot 8 Iowa forward Payton Sandfort to bring the house down.

SportsCenter Prequel

The HBCU basketball star used his Senior Night as a prequel to his State Farm College Slam Dunk Championship. Delivering two electrifying dunks that both would end up ESPN’s SportsCenter.

The first of Ings’ remarkable dunks saw him split two defenders in a pick-and-roll, soaring over a 6-foot-9 Morgan State player for a poster-worthy slam. Minutes later, he executed a flawless windmill dunk on a fast break, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. This windmill dunk was so spectacular that it claimed the number one spot on SportsCenter’s Top 10 plays for February 25, 2025, while the first dunk came in at number three.

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The Norfolk, VA native recently led Coppin State to a 19-15 record, ending its season in the second round of the WNIT. One of those wins was against Arizona State.

Woods went 30-40 in his first two seasons at CSU. In his first season as head coach, Woods guided the Eagles to non-conference wins Winthrop, Saint Peter’s and St. Francis (Pa.) and a fifth seed in the MEAC Tournament. Mossi Staples and Jewel Watkins both earned Second Team All-Conference honors while Watkins was placed on the league’s defensive team.  In a victory over Delaware State, CSU set a then school-record with 12 3-pointers and the squad set a single-season record with 181 3-point field goals. 

During Woods’ second season as head coach, Coppin State advanced to the MEAC Semifinals for the first time since 2016 and posted impressive non-conference road wins at FIU and Pittsburgh. The victory against the Panthers was CSU’s first-ever against a Power Conference program. Earning the four seed in the MEAC Tournament, Laila Lawrence and Faith Blackstone earned major MEAC awards, 1st Team All-Conference accolades and BOXTOROW HBCU All-America honors. Angel Jones also picked up 2nd Team All-Conference recognition. 

Woods started his playing career at Belmont-Abbey before finishing out at Christopher Newport University where he was a D3 All-American. He started his coaching career at Virginia Tech before transitioning to Old Dominion and Wake Forest. He joined the Baltimore-based HBCU as associate head coach in 2020. 

Now he’s returning back home to take charge of a program that won 30 games and is the three-time defending MEAC Tournament champion. Last month Woods got a taste of being back home during the MEAC Tournament. 

“I didn’t sleep at all. I haven’t been sleeping. Haven’t eaten either. So I need to eat. I’m going to have a good meal today,” Woods said during the MEAC Tournament. “People are feeding us good. We have nice, fancy restaurants every day, and people are taking care of us.”

In addition to to eating well, Jermaine Woods now has the task of keeping Norfolk State on top of the HBCU and MEAC hill and keeping it as one of the best mid-major programs in the country. 

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While the popular HBCU classic showcases a pivotal battle for statewide bragging rights on the gridiron, it also draws record crowds, celebrates the tradition of both programs and creates a massive economic impact for the community.

Community Impact

In 2024, city leaders in Birmingham projected that the game and its festivities would generate more than $20 million in economic impact for the city, according to WBRC-TV. Even more, the game — one that was played on Oct. 26  — was the 10th busiest day of the year in the Magic City. 

“If anybody thinks that’s going to happen [cutting funding] and I’m not going to be at this mic from this moment until we leave, you can forget it,” Smitherman said, per AL.com. “I will be right here.”

The state’s proposed $3.7 billion budget included $200,000 for next year’s MCC. However, when the House Ways and Means General Fund Committee approved the General Fund budget on Tuesday, it axed out the funding for the annual classic. Rep. Rex Reynolds, R-Huntsville — one of the chairmen of the state’s House Ways and Means General Fund Committee — said the proposed move to cut events like the MCC was part of Alabama’s initiative to prioritize “budgeting” and “get back to funding state agencies.”

“As you saw when [Gov. Kay Ivey’s] budget came over, all of the one-time appropriations was removed from the budget,” Reynolds said, per AL.com.

Smitherman and Senate Minority Leader Bobby Singleton, D-Greensboro, convened with Reynolds and the state’s additional General Fund chairman, Sen. Greg Albrittion, R-Atmore, to discuss the proposed budget. When Smitherman took the senate floor later Tuesday afternoon, the veteran lawmaker said the Magic City Classic issue, along with others, would be reviewed.

Changes to the Budget

Singleton also confirmed to AL.com that changes would take place to the budget. However, he was not given a timeline on when they would come to fruition. State lawmakers have 12 meeting days left in its annual session, one that runs until May.

According to the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau Board, nearly 70,000 fans attended the Magic City Classic in 2024, keeping its tradition of being one of the most-attended HBCU football games of the year. If funding for MCC is cut off, it would limit the overall impact of the annual event, which Smitherman labeled as part of the state’s diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

As a result, Smitherman said he would exercise the Senate’s filibuster rules to shed light on the importance of this event as well as proposed cuts to other related items in the budget. “… If it [cutting funding] does [happen], it will happen with the most resistance using our rules and procedures that I can use in this body,” Smitherman said.

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The former LSU assistant and Nebraska interim head coach knows that the best players in his program will always be pursued by bigger schools with better resources — and most of the time they will lose.

“We understand,” Joseph told local media. “I think the kids understand if they’re here and they’re sophomores and they have a big year and a Group of Five or Power Five approaches them and they have the finances to pull them out of there and I can’t match the finances — then you know what — they’re gonna go. That’s part of it. Coaches been doing it for years. So we shouldn’t get mad as coaches when these kids make decisions to take care of their family. I’m going to say it again — coaches’ been doing it for years.”

However Joseph says he believes there should be some compensation owed when his HBCU or other schools lose players to bigger schools.

“But I also think there needs to be a buyout. If they move up from me and go up to a Group of Five/Power Five, I should get kind of a compensation for that. So NCAA, if you’re listening to me — I need a buyout.”

Joseph isn’t the first HBCU coach to propose such an exchange. Last year Norfolk State men’s basketball head coach Robert Jones. 

“Unpopular opinion: what if college players have buyouts like college coaches?” Jones posted on X last May. “Players/coaches should be able to go wherever they want BUT when a coach leave(s) he has to pay back a buyout clause usually. Well what about if a player leave(s) he pays a % of his new NIL deal? Hmmmm.”

So far, there have been no official proposal to the NCAA on behalf of smaller schools looking to get compensation when losing athletes to bigger schools. Could the HBCU world lead the way on that?

Let us know in the comments below. 

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Before Grambling State, Jackson made his mark at Stillman College, leading the program to a 27-6 record and a DII second-round appearance in 2015-16. He also had a successful run at Central State, establishing himself as a rising name in the HBCU coaching ranks early in his career.

With a career coaching record of 246-166 and a SWAC Tournament record of 9-5, Jackson is known for his ability to build programs and compete for championships. His 2022-23 Grambling team went 24-9 and finished tied for first in the league, showcasing his ability to bring consistency and success to HBCU programs.

Now, Jackson takes over an Alabama A&M program seeking to climb the SWAC standings. His appointment signals that Alabama A&M is aiming high and investing in a proven winner within the HBCU basketball fraternity. The move keeps one of the SWAC’s most experienced coaches in the league, as the HBCU basketball coaching carousel continues to turn.

Grambling State, meanwhile, will have to find another head coach. 

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Kenwick Thompson Coaching Career

Thompson brings a wealth of experience to the Rattlers, having previously served in coaching roles at various FBS-level institutions. This won’t be Kenwick Thompson’s first foray into HBCU football. He spent 1994-2001 performing various coaching roles at Texas Southern University. Including assistant head coach, Recruiting Coordinator, and Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach.

Most recently, he was the assistant head coach and linebackers coach at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) during the 2023 and 2024 seasons under former NFL quarterback Trent Dilfer. His extensive coaching career includes positions at UNLV, Fresno State, East Carolina, Vanderbilt, San Jose State, California, and Texas Southern. Notably, Thompson was the defensive coordinator at East Carolina in 2016. ?

FAMU’s head coach, James Colzie III, emphasized the importance of hiring a coordinator with a proven track record and strong linebacker coaching skills. “When searching for our defensive coordinator. It was important to bring a coach in who had successful coordinating experience but also a bonafide linebackers coach. Coach ‘Wick’ checks both of those boxes. He’s had success at the FBS and FCS levels.” Colzie told the Democrat.

Thompson expressed enthusiasm about joining FAMU in a recently released statement. “I am honored to be a part of a rich history of excellence on and off the field. I’m excited to get to work contributing to that rich history.” Thompson continued, “I want to thank Coach Colzie for this outstanding opportunity to work with these great young men.”

The Rattlers will conclude their spring practice schedule with the Orange and Green Spring Game on Saturday, April 12, at 4 p.m. They will kick off their 2025 season on August 30 against Howard University in the Orange Blossom Classic at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.

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Brown will speak on Friday, May 2, at 6 p.m. ET. Kinsey will take the stage on Saturday, May 3, at 9 a.m. ET, followed by Weaver at 2 p.m. ET.

“We are delighted to host three dynamic speakers who will celebrate our graduates for their individual accomplishments while challenging them collectively to always represent Florida A&M University as they step into the next chapter of their lives,” said FAMU Interim President Timothy L. Beard. “Fawn Weaver, Adrienne Brown, and Bernard Kinsey are corporate and entrepreneurial powerhouses who each embody a powerful message of how tenacity and faith can help order our steps on the ladder of success and beyond.”

More than 1,100 students from FAMU’s 14 schools and colleges will receive degrees during the ceremonies, which will be live-streamed on FAMU’s Facebook page and YouTube channel (@FAMUTube1887).

Weaver, a best-selling author and TED speaker, is one of only five African American women to found and lead a $1 billion company. Brown, a FAMU alumna, leads corporate strategy and business development at Eli Lilly. Kinsey, a former Xerox executive, co-founded one of the largest collections of African American art and historical documents.

The Kinsey Collection has been exhibited worldwide, and the family has raised more than $36 million for charitable causes, including $11 million for FAMU.

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