As reported by Deadline, this marks only the second time Netflix has ordered a pilot. Typically, the streaming service produces shows straight-to-series, bypassing the traditional pilot episode and commissioning entire seasons from the start, unlike network TV.

What to expect

Sources close to Deadline indicate that this pilot is a one-time occurrence, not the start of a larger shift in Netflix’s strategy. The production boasts a strong lineup of talent, including writer, executive producer, and showrunner Felicia Pride, as well as executive producers Debbie Allen, Mandy Summers, Tom Werner, Gina Prince-Bythewood, and Reggie Bythewood.

Allen, Werner, and the Bythewoods are all veterans of the original series, with Allen returning as director for the sequel—a role she held throughout the original show’s run.

The Original

The 1987 series itself was a spinoff of The Cosby Show and initially focused on Lisa Huxtable (Lisa Bonet) and her experiences at Hillman College, a fictional HBCU. However, after Bonet’s departure following the first season due to her pregnancy, the show shifted focus to an ensemble cast that included Hardison, Guy, Dawnn Lewis, Darryl M. Bell, Sinbad, Cree Summer, and Glynn Turman.

While the original series centered around Hillman, it’s unclear whether the sequel will remain set there or feature a different HBCU.

In a similar vein to Peacock’s Bel-Air, a reboot of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the sequel will have a more modern approach, with Pride having worked as a supervising producer on Bel-Air‘s third season.

Filming for the pilot is slated to take place in Atlanta this June, though production will need to quickly finalize its casting for the remaining roles.

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“I’m excited for the opportunity to continue building something special here at Colorado,” said Coach Prime. “We’ve just scratched the surface of what this program can be. It’s not just about football; it’s about developing young men who are ready to take on the world. I’m committed to bringing greatness to this university, on and off the field. We’ve got work to do, and I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else but here, making history with these incredible players and this passionate fan base. Lastly, anybody got at least a five-bedroom home with acreage for sale?”

Coach Prime’s impact on the university and Boulder community has been remarkable. Due in part to Coach Prime’s engagement and the visibility he’s created, applications to attend CU Boulder increased 20% from a year ago to over 67,000, including a 18% increase in applications from out-of-state. Applications from prospective students who identify as Black/African American increased 50.5%, and applications from prospective students who identify as non-white increased 29.3%. 

Meanwhile, CU sold out all but two home games during the 2024 season, marking the first time the Buffs have sold out four or more games in back-to-back seasons since 1995-96. This past season, home football games brought a combined $93.9 million in direct economic impact to the City of Boulder and $146.5 million in total regional economic impact.

Under Coach Prime’s leadership, the football team has also been excellent in the classroom, posting its best term GPA in program history last fall semester with a mark of 3.011, the first time in program history they’ve recorded above a GPA of 3.0.  

“CU Boulder is one of the most innovative campuses in the country, so it’s only natural and appropriate that we have the most innovative coach as well,” said Chancellor Justin Schwartz. “Coach Prime has done a masterful job transforming CU Boulder’s football program into the must-watch matchup nationwide, week after week, and I’m excited to see what the team will accomplish under his leadership in the next five years. He is also committed to a program with the highest level of integrity that emphasizes our student-athletes’ academic performance and helps them achieve their post-football career goals. Thank you to the University of Colorado Board of Regents, President Todd Saliman, and Athletic Director Rick George for their leadership on what is a great day for CU.”

Coach Prime has also immersed himself in the campus community well beyond his role as football coach, serving as a guest lecturer for a class in the university’s College of Media, Communication, and Information, serving as the keynote speaker at the Conference on World Affairs, and speaking to students at both the Leeds School of Business and Colorado Law School. He also attended the grand opening of the university’s Center for African & African American Studies located on campus.  

The extension increases Coach Prime’s yearly base salary to $10 million in 2025, making him the highest-paid football coach in the Big 12 and among the top 10 highest-paid head football coaches in the country.  

CU Boulder is a non-profit, public institution, and no tuition or state funding dollars are being utilized in this contract. Coach Prime’s extension is paid for exclusively from the Athletic Department budget, which comprises media rights, ticket and merchandise sales, donations and sponsorships. 

With Coach Prime’s commitment to the University of Colorado Boulder now set, fans are encouraged to show their commitment to Coach and CU football by donating to the CU Buff Club.   

Coach Prime is represented by SMAC Entertainment, who was instrumental in the extension of this agreement.

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“It’s your very first tournament and I’m super excited for you,” Reese said in a March Madness video on social media. “…We literally grew up together, literally were best friends growing up from third grade to high school. We was learning how to play basketball together, to winning championships together, to playing at high school together, to you going to college and I’m super proud of your growth on and off the court.”

While the Bruins defeated the Jaguars 84-46 in the opening round game, Gourdine finished with 10 points, two assists and one rebound. Prior to Southern’s first-round appearance in the tournament, the 5-foot-9 senior guard helped the Jaguars defeat the University of California San Diego 68-56 in the First Four round. 

She also helped Southern defeat Alcorn State 64-44 to capture the program’s second Southwestern Athletic Conference tournament crown in three seasons and earned MVP honors in the event.

Gourdine’s path to HBCU

Gourdine played her first two seasons at Temple University before transferring to SU ahead of the 2023-24 campaign. Like Gourdine, Angel Reese played her final two seasons of college basketball at LSU — roughly 16 miles away from the Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based HBCU — and helped the Tigers win the 2023 women’s NCAA tournament national championship.

Southern finished the season 21-15 overall and 15-3 in conference play.

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“The Spring Game will be televised on ESPN2 … on the 19th,” Sanders said. “We got to sell this thing out and pack this thing because the way the trend is going, you never know if this is going to be the last spring game. I don’t believe in that. I don’t really want to condone that. I would like to play in the spring. Actually, I (would) like to play against another team in the spring. That’s what I’m trying to do right now.”

At least one current HBCU coach is interested in taking Deion Sanders up on his idea. First-year head coach Tremaine Jackson of Prairie View A&M isn’t running from the potential challenge. 

“I ain’t hard to find!!” Jackson said, tweeting the words Sanders has often said in recent years. “Would love to be apart!!”

Jackson is in his first season as a head coach at the HBCU after spending the past three seasons at D2 power Valdosta State. He took the team to the national championship game last fall before falling short and coming over to the FCS program. 

“To have a competitive (game) against your own guys kind of gets monotonous. You really can’t tell the level of your guys because, you know, it’s the same old, same way,” Sanders said. “Everybody kind of know each other. Towards the end, I would like to style it like the pros. I would like to practice against someone for a few days, then you have the spring game and I think the public will be satisfied with that tremendously. I think it’s a tremendous idea. I’ve told those personnel who should understand that it’s a tremendous idea.”

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Despite the loss, FAMU’s Shaqir O’Neal played 21 minutes in the game, logging four points, five rebounds, and two assists.

Shaq and Mo Will

Shaquille O’Neal and Mo Williams share a history from their overlapping NBA careers. Both played for the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2009-2010 season. A dominant center, O’Neal had a 19-year career in the NBA, earning four NBA championships and 15 All-Star selections. Williams, a skilled point guard, played 13 seasons in the league, earning one All-Star selection and securing an NBA championship in 2016.

Shaqir O’Neal’s journey in college basketball has taken him through two HBCUs. In July 2024, he transferred to FAMU from Texas Southern University, seeking increased playing time and development opportunities. At Texas Southern, during the 2022-2023 season, he averaged 1.4 points per game over 20 appearances.

The move to FAMU proved beneficial, as Shaqir showcased significant improvement during the 2024-2025 season. A highlight of his season was recording his first collegiate double-double on February 17, 2025, against Alcorn State, where he tallied 12 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks, contributing to an 85-76 victory.

Throughout the season, he maintained averages of 7.5 points and 3.1 rebounds per game, with a commendable field goal percentage of 51.4%.

Shaq’s presence at the SWAC tournament shows his support for his son’s HBCU basketball career and reinforces the aura surrounding HBCU sporting events, where tournaments and Classics can turn into celebrity-studded events in the blink of an eye. Shaqir’s decision to continue his career at FAMU also shows that HBCU basketball has something to offer student-athletes indiscriminate to personal resources. Highlighting a broader trend of talented athletes recognizing these institutions’ rich history and opportunities.

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In a recent interview on X.com, Master P expressed his admiration for Sanders’ achievements and his intent to emulate that success at UNO. He remarked, “Deion Sanders is opening doors, he did it in football, he did a great job. That’s the GOAT; I salute him.” Master P further elaborated on his aspirations, stating, “If I can do that in New Orleans, in the basketball world—and we talked a lot about this—this is my time to shine.”

Deion Sanders, affectionately known as “Coach Prime,” made headlines in 2020 when he accepted the head coaching position at Jackson State University (JSU), an HBCU. His tenure brought unprecedented national attention to the program, including top-tier recruits like Travis Hunter and non-stop national media coverage. Notably, Sanders’ commitment to HBCUs was personal; he coached his sons, Shilo and Shedeur, at JSU, both of whom played pivotal roles on the team.

Master P’s HBCU connection

Master P’s connection to HBCUs is also deeply personal. He holds honorary doctorates from HBCUs Lincoln University and Grambling State University. His son, Hercy Miller, initially committed to play basketball at Tennessee State University (TSU), another prominent HBCU. Hercy’s decision was seen as a significant endorsement of HBCU athletic programs. However, due to concerns over medical resources, Hercy transferred from TSU after a brief tenure.

Miller was asked if he planned to emulate the father-son element of Deion Sanders’ HBCU tenure by bringing his son Mercy to play for UNO. “My son making his own name, he’s on his own journey so I’m gonna let him do his journey,” said Miller of his son Mercy Miller, who has committed to play basketball for the University of Houston.

Deion Sanders responded to Master P’s comments with warmth and encouragement. Posting, “Love this brother from day 1. He’s blessed more of us than darn near anyone in the game. And he’s still giving.” in response to the video.

Master P’s vision for UNO

Master P’s vision for UNO extends beyond the basketball court. He aims to elevate the university’s profile, attract a diverse student body, and provide mentorship to student-athletes. Drawing from his entrepreneurial background, Master P plans to implement programs that prepare students for success both on and off the court.

“This is bigger than the game,” said Miller on his role with UNO. “It’s about educating and creating future leaders at the same time. I’m here to make sure that these young student-athletes have the opportunities, resources, and mentorship to succeed on and off the court. UNO is our culture, our community, our city, our team and our family. It’s time to bring the love and passion back to New Orleans basketball.”

The collaborative spirit between Master P and Deion Sanders highlights a broader movement to enhance the prominence and resources of athletic programs at HBCUs and similar institutions. As Master P embarks on this new chapter with the University of New Orleans, the blueprint laid out by Deion Sanders serves as both a guide and an inspiration. Their shared commitment to excellence, mentorship, and community development hopes to continue to usher in a new era for collegiate athletics where prominent figures give back to their communities with their time, resources, and influence.

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“It’s a possibility. But..you know what? It would have to make all the sense in the world.” Vick responded to Patrick’s question about the possibility of this matchup. “You know, I spoke to Deion Sanders about those type of games and scheduling big-time games for the school, you just want to be cautious when you’re doing that, you know, you don’t want to put the kids in a bad situation, you know, obviously it helps the school out and we’ll pick and choose our spots in what’s the right team to play before I put them in a situation where it’s a detriment to them. And, when we do…when we finally schedule that game, we’ll be ready to play that game and be competitive in that game.”

Deion Sanders HBCU tenure

Deion Sanders began his coaching career at Jackson State in 2020, leading the Tigers to an impressive 27-6 record over three seasons. Under his leadership, Jackson State secured consecutive Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) titles in 2021 and 2022, with Sanders earning the SWAC Coach of the Year award both years. His tenure revitalized the football program at Jackson State and shone a national spotlight on the rich history and talent within HBCU football.

In December 2022, Sanders accepted the head coaching position at the University of Colorado, a move that surprised many but was consistent with Sanders’ ambition to take on and tackle new challenges. His inaugural season with the Buffaloes in 2023 concluded with a 4-8 record, but the subsequent 2024 season saw a remarkable turnaround, with Colorado finishing 9-3 and 7-2 in conference play.

Michael Vick’s path

Michael Vick’s journey into coaching mirrors Sanders’ path in several ways. Appointed as the head coach of Norfolk State in early 2025, Vick transitioned from a celebrated NFL career to collegiate coaching, aiming to leverage his experience to inspire and develop young athletes, especially in the Tidewater region of Virginia, where he grew up. Upon his hiring, Vick expressed his commitment to mentoring and transforming the football program at Norfolk State, stating, “I am blessed and humbled by this opportunity to lead, mentor, and transform the football program at Norfolk State University.”

The potential matchup between Norfolk State and Colorado symbolizes more than just a game; it represents the potential bridging of the gap between traditional HBCU programs and larger NCAA institutions from the Power 4 conferences. This game would provide invaluable exposure for Norfolk State University and its football program, an opportunity for Deion Sanders to stay connected to his HBCU football roots, and a big payday for the Norfolk State football program.

The prospect of a Norfolk State versus Colorado football game under the guidance of Michael Vick and Deion Sanders speaks to the evolving landscape of college football and the influential role that high-profile coaches can play in this progression. As both coaches continue to build their programs, fans and analysts eagerly anticipate this landmark matchup’s possibility.

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The 63-year-old passed away in a tragic car accident on Friday night, according to multiple reports. Stone was in the car with band members after a performance in Alabama when the accident happened. Angie Stone was the only person in the car who did not survive the accident.

Angie Stone was headed to Baltimore to perform during the CIAA. Her publicist spoke to her on Friday night at 9:12 p.m. EST, right before Angie performed in Alabama. Stone confirmed she’d be in Baltimore, and that was the last time they spoke. Her publicist was informed of her death on Saturday.

On the day of her passing, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) was hosting its women’s basketball championship game at the CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, Maryland. The CIAA, known for its rich history of promoting athletics among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), had invited Angie Stone to perform during the tournament festivities. Her scheduled appearance was highly anticipated, reflecting her deep connection to the HBCU community and her commitment to supporting events that celebrate Black culture and excellence.

During halftime of the women’s championship game between Fayetteville State University and Virginia State University, the CIAA made the somber announcement of Angie Stone’s passing. The news cast a pall over the event as attendees grappled with the sudden loss of a musical legend. The CIAA acknowledged Stone’s significant contributions to music and culture, noting that her legacy would continue to inspire future generations. A formal statement from the CIAA is expected to be released later, detailing plans to honor Stone’s memory during the remainder of the tournament.

Angie Stone, born Angela Laverne Brown on December 18, 1961, in Columbia, South Carolina, began her illustrious career as a member of The Sequence, one of the pioneering female rap groups in the late 1970s. The trio gained prominence with their hit single “Funk You Up,” which showcased their unique blend of hip-hop and funk. Stone’s transition to a solo career in the late 1990s solidified her status as a neo-soul icon, with albums like “Black Diamond” and “Mahogany Soul” earning critical acclaim. Her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonated with audiences worldwide, making her a beloved figure in R&B and soul music.

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On Friday the Cowboys hired offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer, who has been with the team since 2022, giving him his first-ever head coaching position. Afterward, Irvin went to his YouTube channel to show his dismay over Sanders not receiving the job.

“Here’s my issue,” Irvin said. “We lost an opportunity here. I don’t know what happened with Coach Schottenheimer and the Cowboys, but Jerry is a shrewd, shrewd businessman, and this opportunity, I’m shocked he did not see. I was pushing for Deion Sanders to be the next head coach, and I still stand ten toes down on that push.”

Michael Irvin continued with this:

“We have two NFC East teams in the NFC Championship game being played (Sunday). All eyes on them. The Philadelphia Eagles and the Washington Commanders, our enemies on all fronts. And they’re in a position that we haven’t held in 30 f—— years. … We’re losing ground in the NFC. That’s 30 damn years. Forty years is a generation. It was time to bring somebody in here that could shake things up and grab this last leg of Cowboys Nation.

“A third of Cowboys Nation has never felt or lived the glory of a championship story. How the hell can they pass something down when they don’t even know about it? … Worse yet, that generation has seen total domination from a team named the Kansas City Chiefs. So not only are you losing football games over here and opportunities over here and divisions over here, you’re about to get our (America’s Team) moniker snatched off our backs.

“Worse yet, that generation has seen total domination from a team named the Kansas City Chiefs. Who in that span is running up on winning three in a row. So not only are you losing football games over here and opportunities over here and divisions over here, you’re about to get our moniker snatched off our backs.”

Sanders will enter his third season with Colorado this fall after spending two full seasons and the Covid spring season at Jackson State. Michael Irvin and Deion Sanders played together with the Dallas Cowboys for five seasons from 1995-1999.

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“Congratulations ladies y y’all did the dog gone thing, Y’all came out tripping a little bit but slowly and surely y’all got it together. Coach had to get in your buts, some of y’all, but you pulled it out,” Sanders said to the team.

Then he pointed out the play of Alabama A&M forward Alisha Wilson, one of the top rebounders in HBCU women’s basketball. She is second in the SWAC averaging 9.9 boards per game.

“You ain’t no joke. You are a dog, I love you,” Sanders said pointing at Wilson.

The two shared a quick hug as her teammates cheered and smiled. Deion Sanders continued on with his address to the team.

“Coach you did the dog gone thing. I like the adjustments you made late, you went to the two bigs at the end, I like that. I’m proud of y’all. I wanted y’all to win because I wanted my baby girl to be happy. She was already mad because I told her I wasn’t coming, she told me she cried today, but she knows I’ll never let her down,” Sanders said.

Alabama A&M is 11-6 overall, with a 4-1 record in SWAC play.

Wilson leads the team in rebounding and blocks and is the third leading scorer, averaging 10.1 points per game.

During the game versus Alabama State, Wilson surpassed career records of 1,000 rebounds, 1,000 points and 100+ blocks.

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“Surprised my Babygirl @shelomisanders yesterday at Alabama A&M! It was epic and they won. The HBCU atmosphere was all that. Dr. Bryant thank u helping me make yesterday happen for my baby! Love all y’all that showed me love. God bless,” Sanders wrote on Instagram.

Shelomi is in her first season with Alabama A&M after transferring from Colorado last season where she was on campus with her father. Sanders began her career at Jackson State before leaving for Colorado when Deion Sanders accepted the job there.

Alabama A&M was at home against arch-rival Alabama State, the Lady Bulldogs won 54-47. Sanders logged seven minutes in the game, missing all three of her field goal attempts but she managed a steal and one assist. Sanders has scored 26 points in 17 games played this season.

The father and daughter hugged along the sideline after the game with Shelomi seeming to shed a tear as the two laughed and talked.

Deion Sanders has an interesting history with both of the Alabama based HBCU programs. Jackson State famously left a pink scooter at midfield after defeating AAMU back in October 2021. The gag gift was a result of a back and forth between Sanders and then coach Connell Maynor leading up to the game. Sanders was also involved in the infamous “bro hug shove” from Alabama State coach Eddie Robinson Jr. during his time at Jackson State after a win in Montgomery. But those rivalries have long since passed and Saturday’s appearance was well received as a tender moment between Deion and Shelomi Sanders.

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“It’s crazy,” Jackson began, explaining the series of events that led to his new position. “About a month and a half ago, I got a call from Antoine Tyler, a guy I grew up with. He mentioned that Tesan Starr, who just got one of the athletic director roles at Delaware State, was asking about me.” Jackson admitted to McCoy that his first reaction was to dismiss the idea. “At first, I said, ‘No way. I’m enjoying coaching high school right now. I’ve got my freedom, I’m having fun.’”

McCoy pressed Jackson on what eventually changed his mind, prompting Jackson to reveal the persistence of those around him. “Antoine didn’t take no for an answer,” Jackson laughed. “He told Tesan, ‘Yeah, DeSean’s in,’ even though I wasn’t!” Jackson went on to share how Coach Travis, someone he considers like a big brother, also got involved. “Tesan reached out to Coach Travis, and he called me, trying to convince me. I still said no.”

As the conversation continued, Jackson described how things escalated. “Antoine eventually pulled up on me with Tesan on FaceTime. Tesan was like, ‘Man, we’re really interested. We think this could happen.’ In less than 48 hours, I was on a flight to Delaware, meeting with the university president.”

McCoy couldn’t help but ask about the interview process, to which Jackson responded, “Man, it was intense but exciting. It felt like being a free agent or getting drafted.” Jackson explained how the university grilled him on everything from his leadership style and football IQ to managing players’ behavior off the field. “They even asked about my community relationships and how I could help with funding. Delaware State hasn’t had much success over the past 10 years, so they were looking for someone to rebuild the program.”

The conversation turned to the competition Jackson faced for the HBCU coaching role, which included high-profile names like Chris Carter. “I went up against some heavy hitters,” Jackson admitted. “But after the interview, they told me I stood out, and I outbid everyone else.”

Shady asked what ultimately convinced Jackson to take the job. Jackson reflected, “At first, I was hesitant because I was enjoying high school coaching. But when I thought about the chance to rally an entire community and create a legacy, I couldn’t pass it up. I knew once my name went across the ESPN ticker, the attention and support would follow.”

The podcast also highlighted Tesan Starr’s crucial role in the process. Jackson credited Starr’s determination and strategic vision as key factors in bringing him to Delaware State. “Tesan knew what he wanted, and he made sure I understood how much of an impact this could have, not just for the program but for the community,” Jackson told McCoy.

As the episode concluded, DeSean Jackson emphasized his excitement for the opportunity and his belief in the potential of Delaware State University football. His journey, shared candidly with McCoy, underscored not only the challenges but also the immense possibilities of leading an HBCU program. Fans and supporters now eagerly await the next chapter of Delaware State football under Jackson’s leadership, with the promise of renewed energy and excellence

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LeSean McCoy didn’t stop with his lighthearted pitch for the Howard coaching job. He went on to imagine an even bigger movement in HBCU football, suggesting that other NFL stars like DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick could also take head coaching roles at historically Black colleges. He envisioned himself at Howard, Jackson at Delaware State, and Vick at Norfolk State, calling it a “whole movement.” The idea of NFL legends coaching at HBCUs has fans and alumni buzzing, imagining the impact it could have on elevating the schools’ athletic programs.

While McCoy’s comments were made in jest, they touch on a larger trend in HBCU sports. The success of NFL greats like Deion Sanders at Jackson State and Eddie George at Tennessee State shows how star power can transform these programs. Having big names as coaches can increase visibility, attract top recruits, and bring a winning culture to HBCUs.

Even if McCoy’s idea to coach at Howard University remains talk for now, it’s creating excitement around HBCU football and what’s possible. His comments are a reminder of the talent and potential within these schools. Whether or not McCoy ends up at Howard, the conversation keeps HBCUs in the spotlight and sparks hope for a brighter future in athletics. As McCoy said, “Y’all see what’s going on,” and fans everywhere are paying attention.

Watch the full episode of the 25/10 podcast here.

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IRVING, Texas – The National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Hall of Fame announced today that HBCU Football legend Michael Strahan of Texas Southern University will be a part of the 2025 College Football Hall of Fame Class.

Strahan, the first-ever NFF College Football Hall of Famer from the HBCU, was an unstoppable force and sack machine on the defensive line at Texas Southern, dominating the Southwestern Athletic Conference and leaving an indelible mark on the Tigers’ program. The Houston, Texas, native now becomes the first person ever from Texas Southern to enter the College Football Hall of Fame.

A First Team All-American in 1992, Strahan was the kind of player that kept opposing offensive coordinators up at night. He was more often than not double-teamed by opposing offensive linemen, which his coaches referred to as “Strahan rules.” He recorded a school record 19 sacks while amassing 32 tackles for losses for 142 yards in his senior season, claiming 1992 Division I-AA Defensive Player of the Year and Black College Defensive Player of the Year honors.

As a junior in 1991, Strahan led the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) with 14.5 sacks. His career total of 41.5 sacks remains a Texas Southern record. He was a two-time First-Team All-SWAC pick and was twice named SWAC Player of the Year (1991, 1992).

Selected in the second round (40th overall) pick in the 1993 NFL Draft by the Giants, Strahan played 15 seasons with the Giants, twice leading the NFL in sacks (including setting the record for sacks in a single season with 22.5 in 2001) while earning four First Team and two Second Team All-Pro selections. He was a member of the Super Bowl XLII-winning team, finishing his career with 141.5 sacks.

Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014, he has also been inducted into the Black College Football Hall of Fame, the Southwestern Athletic Conference Hall of Fame, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and the Texas Southern Sports Hall of Fame. His number has been retired at his HBCU, and he received an honorary doctorate of humane letters from his alma mater in 2013. He was named to the Senior Bowl 75th Anniversary Team in 2024. The Giants retired his No. 92, and his name appears in the Giants Ring of Honor.

An Emmy winner and Peabody award-winning journalist, Michael Strahan currently is a co-host on ABC’s Good Morning America and as an analyst on FOX NFL Sunday. He also has an eponymous lifestyle brand, Michael Strahan, a top seller across more than 50 categories, including men’s and boy’s clothing, accessories, and skin care.

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The Las Vegas Raiders are in need of a head coach as they have fired head coach Antonio Pierce and general manager Tom Telesco following a 4-13 season performance in the 2024 season.

The Pro Football Hall of Famer and current head coach at Colorado has maintained for years, going back to his time at Jackson State, that he wasn’t interested in coaching in the NFL. But in a recent appearance on Good Morning America, he stated that the only way he would coach in the NFL was the opportunity to coach his sons.

The Las Vegas Raiders currently have the sixth pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, which is likely too low to secure the services of Shedeur Sanders as their next starter. However, the franchise is expected to make a move up to try to put itself in better position. The Tennessee Titans hold the no. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and the Cleveland Browns have the no. 2 pick. The Yahoo Sports Mock Draft predicted that the Raiders would move up via trade with the Cleveland Browns.

The Browns may not be as interested in passing up a top quarterback now that Deshaun Watson is expected to miss the entire 2025 season due to a torn achilles. 

Getting Deion Sanders without Shedeur Sanders, by his own admission, isn’t likely to happen. In the meantime, all eyes will be on the Raiders until they make their hire — or a trade. 

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“I feel like I’m blessed to be blessing,” Sanders told his fellow Hall of Famer. “And those guys you just forementioned, I reached out to them and I want them to succeed immensely. All the wrongs, all the rights, everything that I could give them and all of the guidance — I’m there for them. They’re like my little brothers and I love it.”

Deion Sanders, of course, got his first head coaching job at Jackson State. After being hired in 2020 he brought the proud program back to prominence, winning back-to-back SWAC championships in 2021 and 2022 before leaving to take the Colorado job. Sanders says he’s ecstatic that former NFL stars like Jackson and Vick are getting these opportunities.

“I love that they’re getting opportunities,” Sanders said in the interview. “Because we never got these opportunities, we comprised 75-80 percent of the team — but then we can’t coach? That doesn’t make any sense to me. So I’m thankful that we’re getting opportunities.”

Of course, HBCUs have been the ones largely offering these opportunities, often seeking out players like Vick at NSU or Eddie George at Tennessee State to take over their programs. Deion Sanders has experienced this first hand and made sure to acknowledge it in a different segment. Jackson State alumnus Demarco Morgan thanked Sanders for what he did for JSU, and Sanders made sure to show his appreciation to the HBCU where he got his college coaching start. 

“They looked out for me,” Sanders told Morgan. “Without Jackson State, it wouldn’t be no Prime. Trust me.”

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ORANGEBURG S.C. – Popular fast-food chain Krystal is open in Orangeburg, SC near the campus of HBCU South Carolina State University. The restaurant was brought to Orangeburg by the American radio host of the popular “The Breakfast Club” show, comedian, and television personality Charlamagne Tha God.

“This means everything, I love Orangeburg. My father-in-law went to Claflin University and my mother graduated from South Carolina State University,” Charlamagne said at the restaurant’s grand opening on Friday. “This is the first of many locations that we’re opening in South Carolina, and I am happy that I get to provide jobs for my people here in South Carolina.”

“I have an honorary degree from SC State, so I consider SC State my alma mater,” he said. “Orangeburg just means a lot to me.”

SC State awarded Charlamagne, whose real name is Lenard Larry McKelvey, an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters as he delivered the keynote address at the HBCU Commencement in May 2021.

“The Breakfast Club” host established the Ford Family Endowed Scholarship Fund at SC State, which provides scholarships to students in English, communications, or mental health-related fields. He noted that his mother is an English teacher while he is a mental health advocate and a communications professional.

Among Charlamagne Tha God’s business partners in the venture is his wife, Jessica Gadsden-McKelvey. He grew up in Moncks Corner, South Carolina.

Founded in Chattanooga, Tennessee, in 1932, Krystal has grown to nearly 300 locations in 10 states. The Atlanta, Georgia-based restaurant chain primarily is known for its square hamburger sliders but also offers chicken sliders, hot dogs, and other quick-serve items, as well as a breakfast menu.

The Orangeburg Krystal, located at 1486 Chestnut St., is open 24 hours, seven days per week.

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Atlanta, Georgia- Another significant honor has been bestowed upon Savannah State University’s most prolific athlete and alumnus as Pro Football Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe has been announced to the All-Century Team of the East-West Shrine Bowl. The organization made its announcement on Tuesday afternoon at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, as part of the 100th celebration of the annual postseason game. Sharpe joins the likes of Walter Payton and Robert Brazile as HBCU representatives on the team.

The East-West Shrine Bowl is celebrating its 100th year in 2025 and is the longest-running college all-star football game in the nation. The 100-year celebration features an exhibit and panel discussion at the College Football Hall of Fame taking place on Tuesday, as well as the East-West Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame on Jan. 29, 2025, culminating in the 100th East-West Shrine Bowl at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas on Jan. 30, 2025. For more information on the East-West Shrine Bowl, click here.

A proud native of Glennville, Georgia, Sharpe appeared in the 1990 edition of the collegiate all-star classic, becoming the first and to date only Savannah State football player to play in the game.

Sharpe’s Savannah State career spanned four seasons from 1986-1989, where he completely rewrote the Tiger football record books. Sharpe was a three-time First Team All-SIAC selection, finishing his career with 192 catches for 3,744 career yards, and 40 touchdowns. He still owns Savannah State’s single-season receiving records for yardage (1,312), touchdowns (18) and yards per catch (21.5) set in 1989. Additionally in that season, Sharpe was instrumental in leading the Tigers to a program best 8-1 overall mark, following a 7-3 campaign the previous season in 1988. 

In 2013, Sharpe was inducted into the Black College Football Hall of Fame and was inducted into the SIAC Hall of Fame the following year. Sharpe’s #2 jersey was retired by Savannah State University in 2009 in celebration of Shannon Sharpe Day.

Following his HBCU football days on The Marsh, Sharpe embarked on a 14 year in the NFL career, where he was an eight-time Pro Bowler, and won three Super Bowl rings, two with the Denver Broncos and one with the Baltimore Ravens. When he retired in 2003, he held the all-time NFL record for tight ends in receptions, touchdowns, and total receiving yards. Sharpe was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

Sharpe has since entered the media world, where he is fastly becoming one of the most sought after personalities in sports broadcasting. He is presently a co-host of ESPN’s highly rated and critically acclaimed morning sports debate show, “First Take” with Molly Qerim and fellow HBCU alumnus Stephen A. Smith. He is also conquering the new media space as the owner and proprietor of Shay Shay Media. His two podcasts, “Nightcap” with former NFL All-Pro Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, and “Club Shay Shay” have received several awards and award nominations for Best Podcast and Best Sports Podcast from several media outlets.

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Six Division I HBCU programs have dismissed their head coaches in 2024. Prairie View A&M parted ways with Bubba McDowell after a brief tenure marked by mediocrity and the arrival of a new athletic director. Alabama A&M’s Connell Maynor, a veteran with a respectable but unspectacular record, also saw his tenure end a few years the arrival of a new AD. At Delaware State and Mississippi Valley State, Lee Hull and Kendrick Wade were ousted following poor records and administrative changes. Even Norfolk State’s Dawson Odums, who worked under the same athletic director, could not escape the chopping block after sustained losing seasons. Vincent Brown Sr. seemed to have his AD’s public approval, but that wasn’t enough to keep his job after back-to-back one-win seasons at North Carolina A&T.

This rapid churn of coaches reflects broader trends in college sports but raises questions about its implications for HBCU programs. The influx of new athletic directors has been a common thread. Administrative changes often signal shifts in strategic priorities, and coaches without immediate success may find themselves on the outs as new leaders seek to stamp their authority on programs.

This impact even rolls down the Division II level, where Shaw University and Elizabeth City State are looking for new coaches a few years after hiring athletic directors.

Another factor is the increased visibility and pressure on HBCU athletics, especially after Deion Sanders’ transformative tenure at Jackson State. When Sanders took over in 2020, he brought national attention, significant resources, and a spotlight to the potential of HBCU football programs. His success at Jackson State—culminating in SWAC championships and multiple NFL Draft picks—seemingly raised the bar for what HBCU football could achieve. For better or worse, it also set a new expectation for immediate results, as athletic departments and fanbases began to demand Sanders-like impacts from their coaching hires. And it didn’t get any easier this season when Chennis Berry took over at South Carolina State for the retired Buddy Pough and won the MEAC in his first season. 

But is this acceleration of turnover uniquely tied to Sanders, or is it a natural evolution of the coaching profession? Coaching turnover is a common phenomenon across all levels of college football, as win-loss records increasingly dictate job security. HBCUs, long hampered by budgetary constraints and administrative instability, are now playing a higher-stakes game, where the cost of losing seasons can no longer be ignored. The changing realities of the transfer portal and NIL can’t be ignored either.

This shift has benefits and drawbacks. On one hand, high turnover creates opportunities for programs to find the right leaders who can deliver results and meet heightened expectations. On the other, it risks undermining the development of programs and players, as frequent coaching changes disrupt continuity and institutional culture.

The days of Eddie Robinson patrolling the sidelines for 50 years are unlikely to return. But 2024’s dizzying coaching carousel reflects an evolving reality: HBCU football, once insulated from the intense pressures of Division I athletics, is now fully entrenched in the high-pressure dynamics of the modern coaching market. Whether this shift will lead to long-term success or short-term instability remains to be seen.

Ironically, it may have been said best by Deion Sanders as he broke the news of his departure to his Jackson State squad on that early December night.

“In coaching, you get elevated or you get terminated,” Sanders said. “Ain’t no other way. You either elevated or terminated. And it ain’t no graveyard for coaches where they die at the place. And either they gonna run you off, or you gonna walk off on your own recognizance.”

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Hip-hop mogul and No Limit Records founder Master P has been announced as the keynote speaker for the Spring Commencement at Lousianna HBCU Grambling State University.

Dr. Percy “Master P” Miller is a businessman, entrepreneur, music mogul, author, and philanthropist who is a trailblazer in music, business, and community advocacy. He is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to empowerment and ownership. As the founder of No Limit Records, he revolutionized the music industry by creating a blueprint for independent success. Under his leadership, the label sold over 100 million records globally and launched the careers of music legends like Snoop Dogg, Mia X, and Silkk the Shocker. Miller’s entrepreneurial reach extends beyond music to include investments in apparel, luxury goods, food, and film production, cementing his reputation as a visionary business leader.

He is also the driving force behind Miller Family Foods, a family-owned business committed to strengthening families and communities by promoting active, healthy lifestyles. However, his business portfolio extends far beyond the food industry, with investments spanning diverse sectors, including apparel, shoes, high-end luxury luggage, restaurant franchises, and production in film and television.

As an ambassador for entertainment in the city of New Orleans, Miller has received widespread recognition for his contributions to bridging the wealth gap and uplifting the New Orleans culture. He was appointed Youth Ambassador for the NAACP, dedicating time and resources to support the Joel John Scholastic Academy in Los Angeles. His accolades include two NAACP Awards for Community Service, the Social Justice Entertainer of the Year Award in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Certificates of Appreciation from the California State Assembly for his advocacy in civil, social, and economic rights. Additionally, Miller holds honorary doctorates from HBCU Lincoln University and has received the Keys to the Cities of Memphis, Los Angeles, Louisville, Charlotte, Jackson, Houston, Gulfport, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans.

Grambling State University will hold its Spring Commencement on Friday, May 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM CST at the Fredrick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.

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NEW YORK – The Shawn Carter Foundation, with generous support from Toyota Motor North America, is proud to introduce Champions for Financial Legacy (CFFL), a comprehensive financial education initiative designed to empower students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and surrounding communities. The Shawn Carter Foundation, founded by hip-hop artist Jay-Z has been committed to bridging the opportunity gap that exists across the education system.

Developed in collaboration with The Coalition for Equity and Opportunity at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, CFFL is modeled after Professor Keith Weigelt’s accredited curriculum at the Wharton School and Bridges to Wealth, a financial education and wealth-building program that Dr. Weigelt has offered to the Shawn Carter Foundation community of scholars and families since 2017.

CFFL is the latest initiative resulting from the ongoing collaboration between the Shawn Carter Foundation (SCF) and Toyota Motor North America, a long-time supporter of SCF’s annual HBCU Bus Tour. With Toyota’s generous support of CFFL, the vision to expand the program to HBCU students and local communities is made possible.

“We are excited to see our partnership with the Shawn Carter Foundation evolve to include this innovative initiative,” said Monica Womack, general manager, D+I and community engagement, Toyota. “One that not only provides resources to HBCU students but also reaches the heart of the community, through advocacy for financial literacy.”

CFFL aims to reduce the growing wealth gap by equipping students with the financial knowledge and skills needed for economic success and social mobility. Topics include budgeting, market risks and returns, mutual funds, credit scores, stock markets, and more. By fostering financial fluency and community engagement, the program seeks to change the trajectory of intergenerational wealth and build a more equitable future.

“Every day at the Shawn Carter Foundation, we dedicate ourselves to uplifting students and communities that are underserved,” said Dr. Gloria Carter, Shawn Carter Foundation CEO and Co-Founder (mother of Shawn Carter aka Jay-Z.) “To launch a financial education program that will reach more students and communities, along with dedicated partners like Toyota and the Wharton School of Business, is a vision we are finally seeing come to fruition. We are so excited to see the incredible impact of CFFL unfold and look forward to its growth.”

“One way to strengthen the resiliency of middle-class households is to increase their ability to generate wealth,” said Dr. Keith Weigelt, Marks-Darivoff Family Professor of Strategy at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania and Founder of Bridges to Wealth. “I thank both the Shawn Carter Foundation and Toyota for their foresight in addressing a long-neglected social disparity.”

The curriculum includes real-world applications and service-learning components, allowing students to apply their financial knowledge in community settings, thereby expanding the ecosystem of wealth-building and fostering local development.

“The Wharton Coalition for Equity and Opportunity (CEO) is pleased to partner with the Shawn Carter Foundation and Toyota in launching the financial legacy program with several HBCUs. This partnership will help us remain committed to closing the wealth gap through an evidence-based approach,” said Dr. Fareeda Griffith, CEO managing director.

The inaugural CFFL program will be implemented in Spring 2025 at Lincoln University, Norfolk State University, and Virginia State University, with plans to expand to other HBCUs. University-appointed faculty from each school will receive free professional development training, and trained student ambassadors will amplify the Champions for Financial Legacy course offerings on their respective campuses for enrollment.

For more information, visit Champions for Financial Legacy. To learn more about the Shawn Carter Foundation and Jay-Z click here.

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ATLANTA, GA – First Take, ESPN’s signature morning debate show featuring renowned commentator and executive producer Stephen A. Smith and host Molly Qerim, wraps up its fall HBCU tour with a live broadcast from Morehouse College on Friday, November 8th. Shannon Sharpe and Cam Newton will also be joining the live broadcast.  This event marks the final installment of a three-show series highlighting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Nov. 8 at Clark Atlanta at Morehouse College (Atlanta, Ga.)
Historic Morehouse College, Spelman College, and Clark Atlanta University make up one of the world’s oldest and largest associations of HBCUs. On this weekend, rivals Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta will face each other at B.T. Harvey Stadium in Atlanta. 

First Take has a history of visiting HBCUs or supporting HBCU Week since 2019. The show has traveled to Winston-Salem State University (2023), home to alum Smith; Savannah State University (2023), home to alum Shannon Sharpe; and Florida A&M with comedian Kevin Hart and movie producer Will Packer (2021). 

The show also celebrated HBCU Week at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in 2022 and at 76ers Fieldhouse in Wilmington, Del. in 2019. 

First Take airs weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on ESPN.  

Event Details

Date: Friday, November 8, 2024
Location: Century Campus Green at Morehouse College located at 830 Westview Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30314
Broadcast Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. ET
Arrival Time:  Security will allow entrance into the Century Campus Green beginning at 8:30 a.m.

Morehouse College, together with Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University, forms one of the oldest and largest HBCU consortia. The show coincides with the Morehouse vs. Clark Atlanta rivalry football game taking place at B.T. Harvey Stadium in Atlanta, underscoring the importance of HBCU sports and community.

About Morehouse College

Founded in 1867, Morehouse College is the nation’s only college founded to educate men of color. Ranked as Georgia’s top liberal arts college for men, Morehouse produces more Black men who go on to receive doctorates than any other college in the country and is a top feeder school for Black men entering prestigious graduate schools and MBA programs. Also named Georgia’s #1 small college, Morehouse educates a selective group of 2,200 students each year, 60 percent of whom come from families with household incomes of $40,000 or less, yet many of which are highly recruited by Fortune 500 companies. The College has created more Rhodes Scholars than any other HBCU and has the #1 core curriculum among HBCUs nationally. It is the nation’s top producer of Black male graduates in the social sciences, and the top HBCU producer of Black male graduates in business administration, management, operations, English, foreign languages, Mathematics, statistics, philosophy, religious studies, and physical sciences. As the national epicenter for thought leadership on human rights and equity. Morehouse is committed to helping the nation address the challenges caused by institutional racism, income and health care disparities, lack of access to capital, detrimental public policy, and the need for high-quality education. Learn more about Morehouse College at morehouse.edu.

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After standout seasons as Tigers, the duo is now considered serious contenders for the Heisman Trophy award, which is given to the best overall player in college football each season.  Tolly Carr and Christopher Neely break down both players’ outstanding seasons.

Travis Hunter plays both sides of the ball as an elite cornerback and wide receiver.  His ability to play both positions at a dominant level in college makes him one of the most intriguing NFL prospects in a generation and why he’s a favorite to potentially win the Heisman Trophy.  Shedeur Sanders is statistically one of the top five quarterbacks in the country and his high passing percentage and ability to make plays in the clutch keeps him in the conversation as a high first-round pick in the NFL.

Neely and Carr discuss not only the brilliance of the players on the field but how an award like the Heisman would impact the HBCU experience which is such a large part of both players’ stories.  We’ll even hear from former NFL great Michael Vick, who offers his authentic take on the unique abilities of Hunter.

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Jackson State University “Thee House Party” Homecoming 2024 is Oct. 27 – Nov. 2. This week-long celebration is packed with events, including the one-and-only always highly anticipated HBCU homecoming concert, featuring Memphis, Tennessee hip-hop artist GloRilla. 

“Homecoming 2024 celebrates the spirit and traditions that make Jackson State University unique. This year’s theme, ‘Thee House Party,’ captures the energy and community that define the JSU experience. We invite students, alumni, and friends to join us for a week of events that honor our legacy, showcase our creativity, and bring us together in Tiger pride. We can’t wait to welcome everyone home to THEE and celebrate what it means to be part of Tiger nation.” said Dr. Jonas Vanderbilt, vice president of Student Affairs, who serves as chair of the homecoming committee. 

Get ’em Glo: GloRilla is set to take the stage on Wednesday, Oct. 30, at the Lee E. Williams Athletic & Assembly Center for an unforgettable night of epic proportions. Get ready for an evening of non-stop energy that will have you on your feet from start to finish. The second artist performing a homecoming with GloRilla will be announced on Friday, Oct. 18.

Throwback Theme: This year’s homecoming theme pays homage to the classic Kid ‘n Play era, giving a shout-out to the movie franchise started by the New York hip-hop duo. Word on the street is that JSU is the ultimate home-away-from-home for students and alumni, so the theme is fitting and reflects the fun, nurturing environment the HBCU offers.  

Parade and Football Frenzy: The legendary JSU homecoming parade will take place on campus, hitting the iconic Dr. Robert Smith Parkway on Saturday, Nov. 2, kicking off at 8 a.m. Act fast because registration ends Sunday, Oct. 13. Pro Football Hall of Famer Robert “Dr. Doom” Brazile will serve as the Grand Marshal.

On game day, the JSU Tigers will take on Arkansas Pine Bluff at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 2, in Veterans Memorial Stadium. 

Homecoming week will be filled with exciting activities, including Street Jam, Yard Fest, Thee Greek Step Show, Thee Vendor Fair, and the return of Thee Gospel Explosion. This is just a taste of what an HBCU homecoming at Jackson State has to offer. There is much more to explore, but you must come and see for yourself.

Concert Deets: Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are on sale now for $60. All residential and non-residential students can purchase tickets for just $25 through a link that will be distributed to their JSU e-mail accounts on Wednesday, Oct. 16. Limit one ticket per student. Parental supervision is required for non-JSU students and patrons under the age of 18.

For a detailed list of homecoming events, visit the homecoming website at www.jsums.edu/homecoming and follow JSU on Facebook, Instagram, and X formerly Twitter. Remember to use the official homecoming hashtags #THEEHouseParty and #JSUHomecoming.

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The former NFL MVP, who spent a decade as a quarterback, last appeared on an NFL roster in 2021. Though he hasn’t officially retired, Newton has been focusing on media ventures, including his podcasts 4th & 1 With Cam Newton and the Funky Friday Podcast.

“I’ve always brought passion and energy into everything I do, and that won’t change at ESPN,” Newton said in a company release. “I’m excited to share my perspective and go toe-to-toe with the best in the business. Fans can expect the same intensity I brought to the field, with real talk, bold takes, and good fun.”

David Roberts, ESPN’s Executive Vice President and Executive Editor, Sports News and Entertainment, praised the move. “Cam Newton’s addition to First Take brings an electrifying presence, enhancing our roster of top-tier personalities. His dynamic charisma, combined with high-profile debates alongside Stephen A. Smith, will make for compelling, must-watch television.”

Newton’s outspoken personality aligns with the media landscape, where former athletes often thrive. While his podcasts often explore cultural topics, his football content offers unique insight from one of the NFL’s most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks. His arrival marks a significant mid-season addition for ESPN.

During his NFL career, Newton played for the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots. He won the 2015 MVP award with the Panthers and led them to a Super Bowl appearance, where they lost to the Denver Broncos. After signing with the Patriots in 2020, he was released before the 2021 season, losing the starting job to Mac Jones. He briefly returned to the Panthers in 2021 but has not played since.

Newton joins fellow former NFL stars Shannon Sharpe, Dan Orlovsky, and Marcus Spears as regular contributors on First Take, where they’ll face off with Stephen A. Smith and Molly Qerim.

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Shedeur Sanders had an impressive stint at Jackson State, making a significant impact both on and off the field. Joining JSU in 2021, Sanders immediately made waves as a freshman by leading the Tigers to an undefeated regular season in the SWAC and capturing the conference title. His debut year concluded with a trip to the Celebration Bowl, though the team fell short of victory in the matchup of HBCU champions. 

In his second season, Sanders elevated his game, throwing for 3,720 yards and 40 touchdowns, breaking several school records. His leadership helped Jackson State secure back-to-back SWAC titles and return to the Celebration Bowl, where they again faced a tough loss to North Carolina Central.

Over his two years at JSU, Sanders earned accolades including the SWAC Offensive Player of the Year, Jerry Rice Award and Deacon Jones Trophy for the top offensive player in HBCU football.

Despite these accolades, many wondered if his game would translate at a Power Four level. Sanders, along with Travis Hunter, were bright spots in the team’s 4-8 season in 2023. And now Colorado is now 4-1 on the season after picking up its fourth-straight win. 

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The speech was facilitated by former North Carolina Central quarterback Micah Zanders, a former NC Central quarterback turned pro agent.

Ramsey’s first piece of advice emphasized the importance of embracing one’s role on the team. “Whatever your role is, just attack it,” he urged. Whether on special teams or in a starting position, he reminded the players that every role is vital to the team’s success. His message was clear: each player must own their responsibility and perform it with intensity, no matter how big or small it may seem.

Secondly, Ramsey highlighted the significance of trust within the team. He spoke about the necessity of trusting one’s teammates, preparation, and the coaching staff. “Football is the ultimate team game,” Ramsey said, stressing that success on the field depends on everyone working together seamlessly. Trusting in the team’s preparation and execution is crucial, especially in high-pressure situations.

Lastly, Jalen Ramsey encouraged the players to adopt a dominant mindset. He advised them to approach each game with the mentality of overpowering their opponents. “Our mindset is to dominate every play,” Ramsey declared, urging the team to unleash their full potential from the first whistle. This mindset, according to Ramsey, is what separates champions from the rest.

The NFL star’s powerful words left a lasting impression on the NCCU team as they prepared for the upcoming season. His advice not only reinforced the values essential for success in football but also inspired the players to uphold the rich tradition of excellence at their HBCU.

NCCU went on to win its opener, defeating Alabama State on Sunday night.

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Iverson didn’t seem to be at the game for any official ceremony. The Hampton football account simply posted a picture of Iverson from Saturday’s game to its social media accounts on Monday.

Allen Iverson’s deep-rooted connections to the Hampton and Newport News area in Virginia are a significant part of his legendary basketball story. Born on June 7, 1975, in Hampton, Virginia, Iverson grew up in the nearby city of Newport News, where he developed into one of the most electrifying athletes in sports history.

High school legend in Hampton community

Iverson became a local hero in both football and basketball while attending Bethel High School in Hampton. Iverson’s talent was evident from a young age, and his skills in both sports made him a standout in the local community. As a quarterback in football, he led Bethel to a state championship. His performance on the basketball court was equally spectacular, leading Bethel to another state title and establishing himself as one of the top prospects in the country. The gymnasium at his former school is now named in his honor.

The Newport News and Hampton communities rallied behind Iverson during his rise to fame, especially during a difficult period in 1993 when he was involved in a controversial bowling alley altercation that led to his arrest and a prison sentence. The conviction was later overturned, and Iverson received a second chance at his athletic career—a moment many in the Hampton Roads area view as pivotal. The experience strengthened Iverson’s bond with his hometown, as he often spoke about how the people from his community stood by him during one of the lowest points in his life.

Iverson’s legacy in the Hampton and Newport News area extends beyond basketball. He is often seen giving back to the community, whether through basketball camps, charity work, or simply connecting with the next generation of athletes. The community has rewarded their native son with his own Allen Iverson Day in the commonwealth along with the 2024 honor of naming a street after him in Newport News.

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. —— The reigning HBCU National Champion FAMU Rattlers return to defend its 20-game home winning streak this Saturday versus South Carolina State and will do it with a new voice of Bragg – B Daht (pronounced B Dot).

B Daht started his public address journey at his alma mater, Winston Salem State University, and has been there since 2004.

In the last 20 years, he’s electrified fans by way of public address announcing and arena hosting for the Charlotte Hornets, Greensboro Swarm, CIAA Basketball & Football Championships, North Carolina men’s basketball, CP3’s Annual HBCU Classic, and more. 

B Daht has also displayed his comedic skill set for two decades on morning radio in North Carolina, five seasons on Nick Cannon’s Wild ‘n Out, and most recently on 85 South’s “Netflix is a Joke” taping. 

B Daht also has a successful podcast, “I Didn’t Know, Maybe You Didn’t Either,” on the Black Effect Podcast that shares a black history fact we weren’t taught in school daily in February. 

Most importantly, B Daht is excited to bring his swag to the Highest of Seven Hills and galvanize the fans in Bragg Memorial Stadium! 

“I’m getting my ‘strike’ on point!” said B Daht. “I can’t wait to scream, ‘I REPRESENT!’ & watch them go CRAZYYYYYY!!! August 31st versus the South Carolina State Bulldogs, don’t meet me there, BEAT ME THERE! Go Rattlers!”

About Bdaht

Brian “B Daht” McLaughlin is an actor, comedian, entertainer, and radio show host. He has graced airwaves, television screens and stages all across the United States.

B Daht began his career trajectory at the Triad Hip-Hop Station, WJMH 102 Jamz, in August 2004. In addition to his infamous prank phone calls, he also implemented a sports report segment- “Thee Score”. He was promoted to Host of the WildOut Morning Show in August 2014, where he leads a team of two other co-hosts, Demar “Osama Bin Drankin” Rankin and Raquel “Roxie” McCoy.

In addition to comedy, B Daht is passionate about giving back to the community and launching events that create a positive, family-friendly environment. He’s hosted several events including: a kickball game/field day, food drive, and back-to-school supply drive.

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This news comes a day after former Jackson State quarterback and current Colorado football star Shedeur Sanders officially got an NIL deal with Nike. He is the first college athlete to have his own Nike NIL deal. 

Nike dropped the Air DT Max 96 on the same day it announced Shedeur Sanders would be signing with Nike. That is the same signature sneaker that his father Deion Sanders wore at the height of his NFL and MLB career back in the 1990s. 

The connection between these two stories, of course, is Deion Sanders.

Once one of the brightest stars in Nike’s 1990s athletic inventory that included Michael Jordan and Ken Griffey Jr., his relationship with the company soured as his playing days came to an end. He developed a relationship with Kevin Plank, CEO of the then-fledgling Under Armour company. The relationship lasted for over a decade by the time Sanders was hired as head coach at Jackson State in the fall of 2020.

Jackson State had a third-party deal that outfitted the SWAC school in Nike. Sources indicated at that time that Sanders was adamant about moving away from Nike – he never wore any JSU apparel with the swoosh. Shortly after Sanders was hired, Jackson State switched over to Under Armour, getting a direct deal with the company as opposed to a third-party. This deal was for the entire Department of athletics.

The two sides developed a relationship while Sanders was at Jackson State, developing a solid number of different uniform combinations that made the program stand out amongst HBCUs and FCS schools. 

Sanders, of course, eventually left for Colorado – also a Nike school. Of course, Colorado’s Nike deal was different than the one JSU previously had through the third party. He made his press conference debut in a Nike hat and the two sides seem to have worked out whatever differences there once were as a Shedeur Sanders ad for Nike was plastered across Time Square on Saturday.

Jackson State University has maintained its relationship with Under Armour, which clearly sees the value in extending its partnership.

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Tyrese posted a video on Instagram of him watching the Florida A&M Marching 100 march past him into Center Parc Stadium before the game. He sat in his car, admiring the band as they moved past him. 

“They don’t even know I’m right here. They’re the stars,” Tyrese remarked into the camera. “They’re in college. They’re breaking generational curses in their families. They are the stars. 

“FAMU – I’m so inspired right now.”

He found his way into the stadium and on the field a few hours later, waving to the 22,000-plus fans in the stadium. When he walked to the sidelines he was greeted by members of the Norfolk State Spartan Legion Band, who put on an impromptu performance with him prior to taking the field for halftime. Tyrese briefly joined in while filming from his phone.

In addition to his new movie “1992,” he’s also releasing a new album. It is called “Beautiful Pain.”

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The elder Lewis brought his late son into the conversation as he was delivering motivational remarks to the Buffs.

“Even when you think you got time, you don’t have time. I lost my son at 28 years old because of the same foolishness that you guys have in front of you now. That’s the same foolishness that took my son out from an overdose. As a father, you will never recover from that, ever. So my son, I wear him around my neck the rest of my life, and he always says, let’s make today a great day,” Lewis said.

“I never understood how we take time for granted. How we act like time is a friend of ours. You know, Proverbs 3:5 says trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. Because if we do, we are in trouble. I lost him and I learned something. If you don’t have a pro mentality about life, the game will pass you too quickly,” he continued.

The autopsy report of Ray Lewis III found fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine intoxication in his system after his death in June 2023. Alcohol and alprazolam were also found in his system as well. Lewis played the 2017 season for Virginia Union, where he recorded 37 tackles in his lone season playing HBCU football.

Ray Lewis talks about making each day great

Earlier in the conversation, Lewis told the Colorado players how he goes about his day-to-day at 49 years old after playing 17 years in the NFL.

“People live to die. I got to live. I get up every day and I figure out a way to get on my bike. At 49 years old, I got 50 miles today. Because the game is the game, and the game will come and the game go. But I’m going to tell you something that can never leave you is when you create the right relationship with God. And when you create this whole aura of a lifestyle, the game of life changes,” Lewis said.

The former Baltimore Raven and former teammate of Deion Sanders gave the players advice on how to reimagine how they start their day.

“I Guarantee you, ninety percent of everybody sitting in his locker gets up every day. And the first thing you grab is your phone, and that’s your equity. That’s your confirmation that you’re successful. Then ninety percent of you are spiritually dead. And when you find yourself spiritually dead, it’s hard to win. It’s easy to win games, easy, man. Talent can win you some games, but when you talk about going to that next level of life. Your mentality has to be totally different,” he said.

“I can’t start my day without picking up three books at one time. Without going through three (holding up books) because I know I’m flawed, I know I can’t please God, not with the thoughts I got. I can please him if I stay in his word.”

Earlier this spring Ray Lewis received his son’s degree from Virginia Union University posthumously.

Deion Sanders is entering his second season as head coach of Colorado after spending three seasons at HBCU Jackson State University.

Watch the full video from Thee Pregame Show here.

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Fayetteville, NC — The Fayetteville State University Department of Athletics has announced that Fayetteville-native and NBA standout Dennis Smith Jr. and the Two-Six Project will be the title sponsors of the McDougal-Scurry Golf Tournament. Dennis Smith, Jr. expressed his excitement and stated, “Fayetteville State has always been a safe space for me. I’m thrilled to support this event and continue my partnership with the athletics department. It’s important for me to continue to support my hometown and home HBCU to give other athletes a safe space!”
 
Grant Bennett, founder and president of The Two-Six Project, emphasized the importance of investing in HBCUs. Bennett stated, “There is no better one than Fayetteville State. We grew up working out over here and playing our youth championship games here. Dennis still practices here. We definitely wanted to find a way to give back to home and do it in a way that supports the athletic program here that gives back to us in so many ways.”
 
The McDougal-Scurry Golf Tournament will take place at the Gates Four Golf and Country Club on Friday, September 6. The event aims to raise essential funds for HBCU student-athlete scholarships and will bring together golf enthusiasts, local businesses, and community leaders.
 
The tournament will have a 1 pm shotgun start following an 11:30 am registration and lunch. Foursomes will compete for the top three awards and course contests, with an awards luncheon featuring door prizes.
 
Interested golfers can register online at fsubroncos.com/golf.

Old Hillside Bourbon, renowned for its rich history and heritage and premium bourbon whiskey, will transform the 19th hole into an unforgettable experience for all attendees and guests.

“Old Hillside Bourbon Company is pleased to sponsor the 19th hole for the McDougal-Scurry Gold Tournament,” adds Courtney Tucker, Co-Founder and Managing Director. “Enjoy samples of Old Hillside’s finest selections, including limited-edition releases!”
 
Raymond McDougal, a legendary figure in Fayetteville State Athletics, served the Broncos for 44 years in various roles, including as head men’s golf coach. McDougal successfully led his Broncos, participating in seven NCAA Division II Super Regionals and earning their first NCAA Tournament berth in 2009.
 
James ‘Jim’ Scurry, who worked at Fayetteville State University from 1988 through 2004, was praised as FSU’s greatest ambassador for his efforts in building relationships with Fort Bragg and community leaders. He is renowned for creating and popularizing the FSU student chant “Attitude Check! Bronco Pride”.

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She spoke with TS4T  about the decision to leave Colorado after one year, with help from her mother, Pilar Sanders.

“I don’t want to say anything too bad,” Sanders said on a livestream. “It just wasn’t good energy. It wasn’t good vibes. There wasn’t enough being poured into me as a player and young lady. If I didn’t leave when I did, I promise you I would’ve quit.”

Her decision to join the JSU women’s basketball team aligned with her father’s role as the head football coach there. During her time at Jackson State, Shelomi appeared in two games but had limited playing time, averaging just one point per game.

Following Deion Sanders’ departure from Jackson State to coach at the University of Colorado, Shelomi transferred to Colorado as well. However, her stint there was also brief and marked by limited opportunities on the court. She played in only five games, logging a total of 11 minutes, and recorded minimal stats.

Shelomi entered the transfer portal again following her lone season at Colorado, seeking more playing time and a fresh start. She returned to the HBCU circuit, committing to Alabama A&M University under the guidance of new head coach Dawn Thornton.

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Years ago, the USA would send its All-Star college team to compete in the Olympics. It would dominate basketball in the Olympic games, even though it was played with international rules which have several differences to American basketball.  In 1988, the USA basketball team brought home bronze after losing to Russia.  In defense of that team, other countries were allowed to use professional basketball players, while the Olympics were during a time when the top college prospects heading to the NBA were expected to be in camp with their respective NBA teams.  This literally sent a depleted college All-Star team to defend our country’s honor at the Olympic games.

That all changed in late 1988 as FIBA, the governing body of international basketball, allowed the USA to use NBA players in the Olympics.  What followed was the USA showing its complete dominance of the world on the biggest stage.

Known as the “Dream Team,” a cadre of historic proportions donned the red, white, and blue and put an exclamation point on Olympic basketball and forever changed the game.  Led by Michael Jordan, arguably the greatest basketball player of all time, he was joined by Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, David Robinson, Patrick Ewing, Scottie Pippen, Clyde Drexler, Carl Malone, Chris Mullen, and Christian Laettner.  Laettner’s choice was controversial as many Americans felt that Shaquille O’Neal should have been given that spot.

The team had to break normal Olympic protocol and not stay in the Olympic village.  It had to be sheltered away because of the distractions the team would have caused.  They did what they came to do which was obliterate the competition.  Their closest game was a 32-point win over Croatia.  They opened play with the most lopsided victory in history with a 68-point win over Angola.  It was so dominant that the teams they were beating often asked them for autographs after the game.

The 2024 team was comprised of several all-time NBA greats.  LeBron James, Curry, and Kevin Durant led the team and have established themselves as some of American basketball’s greatest.  It doesn’t however dampen the weight put on the shoulders of the team to win gold or bust at the Paris Olympics.

As expected the second American basketball player to carry the American flag during the opening ceremonies would win the Most Valuable Player award.  While Steph Curry certainly pulled the American team through the last two tough games, James was most certainly the consistent dominant force.  As one of the USA’s only self-made billionaires, James was laser-focused on bringing home his third Olympic gold medal to the United States. 

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ATLANTA — The College Football Hall of Fame is marking its 10th anniversary in Atlanta, underscoring the Hall’s pivotal role in helping establish Atlanta as the Capital of College Football. Since its relocation to Atlanta in 2014, the Hall has drawn local and national fans to the city’s sports, entertainment, and tourism district to honor the individuals, traditions, and passion that define college football and experience “Game Day” every day.

Free 10th Anniversary Concert on Aug. 24 with Big Boi

To commemorate a decade of calling Atlanta home, the Hall is bringing the community together for a 10th Anniversary Celebration and Kickoff Game Football Fest. The milestone celebration will feature the unveiling of brand new innovative exhibits and enhanced fan engagement experiences, and will be capped off with a concert entirely free to the public put on by Grammy-winning artist and notable Atlantan Antwan “Big Boi” Patton of the famed Outkast.

“As an Atlantan and college football fan, performing for the College Football Hall of Fame’s 10th anniversary in my hometown is an honor and perfect collaboration,” said Antwan “Big Boi” Patton. “Having followed my son’s college football career closely, I have seen the energy that college football creates. I’m looking forward to delivering that same atmosphere to this event, celebrating our city’s spirit, the history of college football and bringing fans together for the game.”

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 24, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m.; Big Boi performance at 4:30 p.m.

*Please note that the Hall of Fame box office will close at 4:30 p.m. and the Hall of Fame will close at 5 p.m. ET*

WHERE: The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame (250 Marietta St., N.W. Atlanta, GA 30313); Activities inside the Hall and outside directly in front of the Hall on Marietta Street

WHAT: A great experience for both families and general fans of college football complete with multiple live DJs, the famed Home Depot GameDay Bus, representatives from the 2024 Regular Season Champions Atlanta Vibe, local team mascots, cheerleaders, and marching bands, inflatables and prize giveaways, all keeping the excitement levels at a premium.

“As the nation’s only hall of fame dedicated to college football, we are honored to be recognizing our 10^th anniversary in Atlanta by pulling out all the stops with big news, big changes and Big Boi at our Grand Reopening celebration,” said Kimberly Beaudin, President and CEO of the College Football Hall of Fame. “We invite true college football fans to experience our newly revamped, technology-enhanced Hall of Fame when we reopen on Aug. 24, and join us in kicking off the next decade of honoring the passion and traditions of college football.”

The concert by Big Boi will not be the only complementary aspect of the community day, as the Hall and Coca-Cola have partnered to make the event a “Coca-Cola Free Admission Day,” allowing guests to experience all that the anniversary event has to offer both inside and outside the Hall. While tickets are not mandatory, guests do have the option to reserve their spot on the Hall’s website prior to arrival.

Those planning to attend are encouraged to consider utilizing Atlanta’s public transportation system, MARTA, in an effort to alleviate congestion around the event. To register for clinics, get advanced tickets and more, visit cfbhall.com.

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DURHAM, N.C. — The United States Tennis Association (USTA) announced that it has awarded a $21,000 grant to Durham, NC HBCU North Carolina Central University (NCCU), while USTA Southern added $12,000 and USTA North Carolina contributed $5,000. The national USTA grant is part of the US Open Legacy Initiative, created in celebration of Coco Gauff’s 2023 US Open women’s singles title. As part of the initiative, the USTA has pledged $3 million to refurbish tennis courts across the country.
 
The grant funds, which total $38,000, will help defray the cost of resurfacing the four on-campus tennis courts at the HBCU. In addition to being used by the NCCU varsity tennis teams, NCCU’s tennis program, as part of the USTA’s Community Hub initiative, has partnered with a number of local organizations to make the courts available to the public.
 
 
“We were extremely honored to be the first college to receive a Community Hub grant and we are especially delighted to be awarded a grant linked to Coco’s (Coco Gauff) success and the US Open Legacy Initiative,” said D. Curtis Lawson, NCCU’s head men’s tennis coach and director of tennis. “As I often say, we may not have 6, 8, or 12 courts yet, but I believe that we have the best four courts on the East Coast! I don’t say this fully in jest as our courts have hosted nationally ranked Division I opponents for regular season dual matches, USTA Adult League practices and matches, NJTL events, camps, and clinics and we were the first HBCU to be featured for a College Match Day dual match (NCCU hosted Howard University in 2014). We fully support the USTA’s mission, and we look forward to an active, longstanding partnership.”

 
“Investing in the improvement of tennis facilities, particularly public tennis facilities, is a critical piece of the USTA’s mission: Growing tennis to inspire healthier people and communities everywhere,” said Lew Sherr, CEO, USTA. “The new US Open Legacy Initiative will ensure that Coco Gauff’s 2023 US Open victory will have a meaningful and lasting impact in communities across the country. I can think of no more fitting way to celebrate an American US Open champion than by completing the circle for the good of the game.”
 
“Investing in public parks and our youth is very important,” said Gauff. “I strongly believe that tennis can continue to become a more accessible sport, and I would like to thank the USTA for continuing to commit to do so.”
 
The US Open Legacy Initiative is part of the USTA’s overall efforts to support tennis infrastructure through facility enhancements and construction, which is led by the USTA’s Tennis Venue Services (TVS) department. Since 2005, the USTA has awarded more than $17 million in TVS grants, impacting more than 43,000 tennis courts and more than $610 million for infrastructure development.
 
In order to ensure that communities have access to safe, appealing, and functional tennis environments, grant recipients also receive start-to-finish project management assistance from the USTA’s Tennis Venue Services team. It provides industry-leading experience in tennis court and facility design, as well as technical assistance, including construction document review and business development insight, to ensure the facilities can deliver tennis at a high level. Completed projects will receive a sign commemorating that the courts were refurbished in honor of Gauff’s US Open victory.

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“I ain’t playing,” Tia Kemp stated via TikTok. “I need you to call your daddy right now. You tell him. You screenshot this right now, that right there and you tell him that’s how much I need in my bank account.”

The bill appears to be for equipment for the team – not for tuition.

Kemp and Rick Ross’ tumultuous relationship has included several public spats in recent months – including one over the ending of Ross having to pay child support last month. 

Roberts III played his high school ball at St. Thomas Aquinas in Fort Lauderdale, FL. He began getting offers back in 2021. Miami, Syracuse, Florida International, Texas A&M, Colorado, and Albany State all offered him as a freshman.

The 6-foot-2 270-pound Offensive lineman chose the Daytona Beach HBCU over Power 5 offers from Colorado, Marshall, Florida International, and Miami.

William Roberts III’s High School St. Thomas Aquinas is known for not only being one of the top schools in the country in football but is one of the top NFL-producing high schools as well.

HBCU Gameday reached out to Bethune-Cookman, but officials declined to confirm whether or not he is on scholarship.

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“Bethune College is like a special ed HBCU,” Charleston White said. “Ain’t no muth****in’ college you jump up and say ‘say that boy going to the NFL.  Nowhere in the history of Bethune College have anybody made it to the NFL. 

Well, besides the fact that the school has not ever been named “Bethune College” – it was once known as Bethune-Cookman College – he was also dead wrong about the Bethune-Cookman alumni in the NFL. 

A total of 40 players, according to Football Reference, have played in the NFL. Thirty-two of them have been drafted. One of them, Larry Little, is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Who is Charleston White

Charleston White is a social media personality, community activist, and speaker known for his outspoken and often controversial views on social issues, particularly those affecting the African American community. Hailing from Fort Worth, Texas, White has gained significant attention for his candid commentary on topics such as crime, gang culture, and the challenges faced by young people in urban environments. His background includes a troubled youth and time spent in the criminal justice system, experiences that have deeply informed his perspectives and fueled his passion for advocacy.

Charleston White’s platform is marked by his raw and unfiltered delivery, which he attempts to use to challenge norms and provoke thought among his followers. He often shares personal anecdotes and insights, aiming to inspire others to make positive changes in their lives and communities. While his approach has garnered both praise and criticism, White remains a prominent voice in discussions about social reform, youth empowerment, and the impact of systemic issues on marginalized populations. His work underscores the importance of personal accountability and community involvement in addressing societal challenges.

This isn’t the first time Charleston White has had something to say about HBCUs. He spoke about Deion Sander’s departure from Jackson State last year. 

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ESPN has agreed to a multi-year contract with HBCU football legend, Pro Football Hall of Famer, and three-time Super Bowl champion Shannon Sharpe. Under this new deal, Sharpe will expand his role on First Take, ESPN’s signature morning debate show featuring Stephen A. Smith and host Molly Qerim.

“Shannon Sharpe has been an incredible addition to the team, enhancing the show’s dynamic with his engaging presence and insightful commentary,” said David Roberts, ESPN’s Head of Event & Studio Production​. “Shannon’s chemistry with Stephen A. Smith has elevated our debates and been another key reason First Take is the premier destination for morning sports discussion.”

First Take recently earned its 22nd consecutive month of year-over-year growth and most-viewed May ever, thanks in part to Sharpe’s contributions.

Sharpe — who originally joined First Take in August 2023 — will also see his role expand across various other ESPN programs to be announced later.

Said Sharpe, “Being a part of this family has been a blessing. Everything about this relationship with ESPN, Stephen A., and First Take, has been tremendous. I look forward to expanding my role and showing more of the world what I have to offer. The show goes on!”

ESPN’s First Take airs weekdays from 10 a.m. — Noon ET on ESPN. Sharpe also hosts his weekly podcast, Club Shay Shay, where he sits down with athletes, celebrities and influencers to break down, analyze and discuss the latest headlines in sports, pop culture and everything in-between.

SHANNON SHARPE HBCU RESUME

Shannon Sharpe was a four-year letter winner at Savannah State University (1986-89). The Glennville, GA native was All-SIAC First Team in 1987, 88 and 89 and was and named the College Player of the Year in Georgia as a Senior. Sharpe owns SSU single season receiving records for yardage, touchdowns and yards per catch, finishing his career with  192 receptions for 3,744 yards and 40 touchdowns.

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“The weight of the people weigh heavy on my shoulder,” Sanders sang. “Gave ‘The Sip the blueprint and took the family to Boulder.”

That last bar appears to be a reference to the idea that Deion Sanders gave his former HBCU Jackson State the blueprint to success before leaving for Colorado and taking his sons – Shilo and Sheduer – with him, as well as his daughter Shelomi. 

Deion Sanders has often shown his love for music – be it by making his own or aligning himself with rap stars like Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, and others. And the music gene was passed down to his children as well. Deion Sanders Jr. has been releasing rap songs for years, even as he built his media brand. More recently Shedeur Sanders has begun to dabble in rapping as well, releasing a song called “Perfect Timing.”

What do you think about Deion Sanders’ verse? 

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FAMU SJGC alumnus Jonathan David (Class of 2024), sophomore Darnell Walker Jones, and seniors Germanie Bozeman, Jalon Howard, and Tristian Hutton received the honors and this win, under the guidance of Edward Thomas, advisor and FAMU TV-20 general manager, marks the second consecutive year FAMU SJGC has received recognition from the program.

Their Emmy Award-winning submission, “Field Trip,” was noted for its creative video and essay addressing the competition’s theme, “The Past, Present and Future.” The film is a poignant portrayal of the late Pro Football Hall of Famer Ken Riley and his enduring impact on the sport.

Field Trip is a peek at the journey of former FAMU great Ken Riley.  With an awesome career in Bartow at Union Academy, he was selected to play for legendary coach Jake Gaither at Florida A&M.   

Riley was an All-SIAC quarterback and excelled in the classroom, earning a Rhodes Scholar nomination.  He would never get the chance to play quarterback in the NFL as blacks were generally moved from that position when they made it to the NFL.  During that time the position of quarterback was generally reserved for white players.

Riley went on to a stellar NFL career with the Cincinnati Bengals, ending his time in the league as the No.4 leader in interceptions as a defensive back; a position he had never played before being drafted by the Bengals.  However, he was overlooked for the Pro Football Hall of Fame for nearly 40 years.  He would pass in 2021.  In 2022, the Cincinnati Bengals would enshrine him into their first Ring of Honor and in 2023, he finally got the call to Canton, OH for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.  Months later, the football field where he played his college games at FAMU was named after him.

Presented by ESPN anchor Elle Duncan, NATAS, and The Coca-Cola Company, FAMU SJGC’s students were awarded a $40,000 grant during the ceremony. During her remarks, Duncan underscored the significance of the funds to foster talent within the HBCU community.

Jonathan David, “Field Trip’s” director, producer, and writer, expressed his gratitude for the competition while reflecting on FAMU SJGC’s second consecutive win and lauding the dedication and talent exhibited by all the participating students.

“It feels great! After winning once, you understand a little bit more about what it takes to tell a great story. We tried to push the limit a bit more with the storytelling and with the help of Mr. Thomas and the team, we were able to add a unique perspective to the film. The moment doesn’t really hit you until you’re about to go on stage and be recognized for your work. It feels more surreal the second time around. But I can’t say I’m the sole winner. Like I mentioned on stage, it takes an incredible team to create a project like Field Trip. I hope the film is around for decades to come,” he said.

The Coca-Cola HBCU Sports Production Grant competition, a collaboration with the National Academy of Arts and Sciences, was established to highlight the outstanding talents of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the realm of sports media. Finalists displayed a diverse range of projects from various HBCUs. The breadth of entries, spanning from documentaries to dance narratives, further underscored the talent within the HBCU community and the multifaceted nature of sports storytelling.

David hopes the win is not the end of the story. “The plan was to create a film that educated the public about the legacy of Ken Riley and win the HBCU Sports Production Grant. We managed to do both so anything beyond that is icing on the cake. Obviously, there are thoughts of distribution. There were a ton of major markets present at the show so if we could get the film to appear in front of a larger audience with the help of a major distributor that would be amazing,”

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Hunter was regarded as a generational talent coming out of high school. A legitimate number-one option on both sides of the ball, he shocked the sports world by flipping his commitment from college football blue-blood Florida State to an FCS HBCU at Jackson State University.

Flipping Travis Hunter is considered one of the biggest recruiting coups of all time and helped establish Deion Sanders as one of this era’s top NCAA football recruiters.

“Coach Prime (Deion Sanders) changed my mind,” Hunter told 60 Minutes about signing to Jackson State. “He let me know how big of an impact I can have on the people, and that is one of the things I wanted – to shine the light on our people ( African Americans) and shine the light on HBCUs.”

Despite undergoing foot surgery during the summer before his freshman season. Travis Hunter played his first game at Jackson State in the season-opening Orange Blossom Classic against Florida A&M before sitting out the first half of the season.

Hunter made his return at homecoming and quickly made an impact playing on both sides of the ball. Intercepting two passes – including a Pick-Six – and had 10 pass deflections. Hunter also caught 18 passes, with four touchdowns during his only season at Jackson State.

After following Deion Sanders to play with the University of Colorado football program, Travis Hunter showed why he’s considered a generational talent. On offense, he caught 58 passes for 721 yards and five touchdowns. Defensively, Hunter had 30 tackles and 3 interceptions in his first year playing at the power five level for Colorado football.

Heading into Hunter’s second season in Colorado, he’s regarded as one of the top players in the nation. Earning himself a spot as one of three cover athletes for the highly anticipated return of the College Football 25 video game from EA Sports.

EA Sports’ popular “NCAA Football” franchise was suspended after the 2014 edition largely because of a high-profile lawsuit from former UCLA star basketball player Ed O’Bannon. O’Bannon led an antitrust class-action lawsuit against the NCAA, EA Sports, and the Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) arguing that they were wrongfully using athletes’ images commercially. 

In 2019, California was the first state to pass a law allowing college athletes to be paid for the use of their names, images, and likenesses, this became known as NIL, and by 2021, players across the nation were allowed to sign deals for the use of their name, image, and likenesses, opening the door for the return of the iconic video game.

EA Sports has signed thousands of NCAA football athletes to NIL deals for their appearance in the game. Each offer is for $600 and a copy of the game. More prominent players, like Travis Hunter, will be designated as EA Sports “ambassadors” and are expected to have inked more lucrative deals.

“We were more focused on being on the cover,” Hunter said in a Yahoo Sports article. “We don’t care about NIL. It’s a dream come true.”

Although his time in HBCU football was short, the impact of Travis Hunter’s signing with Jackson State will always be an important benchmark in HBCU football. As his star continues to rise as one of the top athletes in the nation, his time on the yard in Jackson will live on in the lore of college football as a moment where an HBCU was home to one of the best players in the game.

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By now you’ve probably seen or at least heard of the “”Lawd Jesus” tweet.  It’s been viewed 23 million times according to Twitter metrics. At the heart of the matter was Sanders quote tweeting a post from user @dalvinthetruth.  Dalvin is an online personality befriended by many Colorado players and Sanders himself.

The tweet was a screenshot of stats from Jaheim Ward, a sophomore defensive back at Austin Peay. The purpose of sharing his stats were an attempt to belittle his position in an argument involving former Colorado player Xavier Smith.  The former CU safety told the Athletic that Sanders “never even tried to get to know me,” and that he “was destroying guys’ confidence and belief in themselves.”

Current Buffaloes receiver Kaleb Mathis jumped into the fray and got into it with Ward, a current teammate of Smith. There were back and forth pot shots from both sides that were an attempt to undercut the football ability of all parties involved.  It’s too exhausting to detail it all.

Dalvin, who is not a player, jumped into the fray with his screenshot of Ward’s stats.

“Man go take a seat,” he wrote along with the tweet.

Lawd Jesus

When Coach Prime quoted the post with the words “Lawd Jesus” that’s when the matter became headline news. The comments were filled with people who took the quote tweet as Sanders throwing shade on the Austin Peay player. Sanders says that wasn’t the case.

In an exclusive interview with a select group of content creators, including @Dalvinthetruth and myself, this is how Sanders explained it.

“Y’all know what Lord Jesus means. That means dang you (Dalvin) really went at this cat and they took it as I was shooting at the kid. I don’t play shooting at no kid. I was saying, dang, Dalvin ain’t playing y’all, better leave him alone. That’s really what I was like, Lord Jesus. And I think that was taken wrong. I think that was taken sideways,” Sanders said.

Later in the conversations Sanders reiterated again his tweet wasn’t directed at the kid but toward Dalvin and that he “apologized to the people that thought I was talking to the kid.”

You’re not built for this

Sanders took issue with the intent of the article from the Athletic and how Smith was positioned in the piece.

“This is what’s strange to me. That great weekend with the (spring) game. with the festivities, great recruiting weekend, million recruits up there that can flat out, play and change the complexity of your program. And right after that, somebody goes and finds a young brother. They talk about another brother and. Is that okay? How’s that okay? You go and find somebody that bad mouths us that ain’t been with us. Why aren’t you talking about the team you’re with or the team you’re getting ready to go to.”

“And how can this gentleman not know that you’re being used? Because now you’re going to get used again. Now the fans getting ready to jump on you, and you ain’t built like that mentally and emotionally. You’re not prepared for that onslaught. So you got to be careful with that. And, that’s the sad thing about it. You’re not you’re not built for that kind of stuff, man. Like, don’t do that,” Sanders said.

And Sanders certainly took issue with the accusations leveled at him and his Colorado program.

“No one mistreats nobody, man. Like, we don’t do that. I don’t condone that. Y’all been around me. Y’all know how I get down. I don’t mistreat anybody.  I don’t play that, I don’t condone that,” Sanders said.

Twitter convo continues for Deion Sanders

The online discussion was raging on two fronts. While Sanders apologized for being misunderstood on “Lawd Jesus” he offered no such apology for what he had to say to @PreTimeKB. More on that in a minute.

Before the elder Sanders had entered the conversation on former players, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders was in the mix when he tweeted his take on what Smith had to say in his interview with the Athletic.

“Ion even remember him tbh. Bro had to be very mid at best,” Shedeur Sanders tweeted.

It was around this time that @PreTimeKB interjected his thoughts on Shedeur with a reply to an unrelated Deion Sanders post.

“Tell yo son stop act like he the coldest out here then put up a 4-8 season,” the user posted.

Coach Prime was quick and precise in response.

“He will be a top 5 pick. Where yo son going ? Lololol I got time today. Lololol,” Sanders posted.

Sanders went into detail about this thoughts at the time.

“But the other gentleman that came at Shedeur.. Now, I came back. Now that that that was me. Just like. All right. Now my my baby going top five. What what about you? Like that was real. So I got to do better on that and not ride with it. But I was bored and I didn’t say anything hurtful. I don’t attack people. But every once in a while I want to play, you know, and then I get petty. I know I could handle that kind of stuff. I can handle that. That’s been happening my whole life. A lot of people can’t handle that,” Sanders said.

“Every now and then you say something about my kids. I’m going to holler at you.”

Rain will pass

By the end of the interview with the content creators Sanders was headed out to go fishing. Taking a few days away from Colorado and back home in Texas, his life hadn’t been altered by the commotion and he certainly hadn’t been ‘canceled’ by the standards of today. Deion Sanders has a principle that when people are talking about you at this level, something good is on the way.

“Nobody trips when it rains because you know it’s going to stop right? Ain’t nobody trips when you  got a storm, and it’s thunder and lightning. Because you know it’s going to stop. That’s how it is with life, and that’s how it is with the drama. But the level of it should tell y’all hey man, this ain’t normal. God is really doing something. This is not normal, because how can people get so mad at this? How can I get so frustrated with that? This ain’t normal. So there has to be something, oh my God, it has to be something huge that’s coming because this is truly abnormal.”

The post Deion Sanders explains posts on Twitter appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Boulder, CO-based school has seen increased attention since hiring Deion Sanders away from Jackson State in Dec. 2022. 

“It’s really hard to say if this is in any way related to Coach Prime,” university spokesman Steve Hurlbert said in response to questions from USA TODAY Sports. “The exposure that CU Boulder has received since Coach Prime was hired has been tremendous and certainly being showcased in a number of national media outlets is helpful for attracting applicants, but it’s difficult to draw a direct causational line between Coach Prime and this increase. Many of our peer universities have also noted higher application numbers this year, so CU Boulder is not an anomaly among other institutions of higher education.”

There was an overall increase of 29.3 percent in non-white applicants at CU, which is overwhelmingly white. African-American students currently make up less than three percent of the school’s enrollment of just over 30,000. Just over 51,000 prospective students have been accepted, which is not a record. 

“We don’t really know how this will impact enrollment,” Hurlbert said. “These are acceptances, which does not mean all of these prospective students will ultimately decide to come to CU Boulder.  We are excited that so many students are interested in continuing their education at CU Boulder. We are also mindful that sustainable growth will allow our campus to continue to support student success and improve upon retention and graduation rate while not straining campus and community resources.  We’ll have a better idea when our annual census comes out in the fall.”

While the university spokesperson hesitates to make a correlation between Deion Sanders putting Colorado on the national map and the enrollment numbers, it is important to note that less than 14,000 of those acceptances came from Colorado. 

The post Deion Sanders has Black applications soaring at Colorado appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The safety played last season at Idaho State after starting his career at JSU. The San Diego native was a three-star prospect in the 2021 class who committed the same day Shedeur Sanders did back in 2020. 

“That was amazing,” Smith told 247Sports. “Talking to Deion Sanders and getting an offer from him was incredible and something I wasn’t expecting. I know they’re not recruiting that many kids out this way so to have a legend like him call and offer means a lot.”

Smith committed to JSU without having taken a visit. 

“I’ve had some family that have gone to school there and playing at a HBCU would be pretty special. A big part of my decision is finding a school where I can grow not just as a player but a person as well and I think playing at Jackson State would definitely help me become a better man and leader.”

He spent the 2021 season as a backup, but had a solid season in 2022 with 26 tackles, one sack and one interception. He now re-join former JSU teammates Cam’Ron Silmon-Craig, Shilo Sanders, and Travis Hunter in the defensive backfield at Colorado as it looks to improve on last year’s 4-8 season. 

The post Deion Sanders, Colorado land former Jackson State DB appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Kevin Coleman Jr. was one of the big gets for Deion Sanders at Jackson State. A four-star receiver in the class of 2022, he committed to Jackson State without a visit. He quickly became one of Shedeur Sanders’ top targets at Jackson State during his freshman season. He caught 33 passes for 510 yards and three scores as JSU went 12-1, winning the SWAC title game and advancing to the Celebration Bowl.

Kevin Coleman Jr. was one of several players hitting the transfer portal after the departure of Deion Sanders, eventually landing at Louisville. He caught 26 passes for 362 yards and two scores during the 2023 season.

Jurriente Davis transferred to Jackson State from Middle Tennessee State University after the 2021 season. The 6-1 linebacker committed to Jackson State carrying two years of eligibility with him.

At Middle Tennessee State Davis recorded 68 tackles (32 solo) with 3 sacks, 5.5 tackles for loss, two pass breakups, and two fumble recoveries. Coming to JSU, Davis was expected to enhance the already strong Tiger defense and in his one year at Jackson State, Davis recorded at least one tackle in 12 of the 13 games that season, racking up 58 total tackles, (38 solo), 1 sack and 1 forced fumble.

Davis hit the transfer portal in late March, eventually landing at Texas A&M. He recorded four tackles in the season opener against New Mexico, two more against ULM, and that was it. 

The post Deion Sanders-era Jackson State players back in transfer portal appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Colorado QB and his father, Deion Sanders, who also played for Jerry Jones and the Cowboys from 1995 to 1999, attended the latest Cowboys game on Thursday night. 

The Sanders and Jones families shared their love for each other and exchanged greetings on the sidelines during pre-game, but Jerry Jones could be heard saying, “Very easily could be the top pick in the draft,” while embracing Shedeur in a video posted by Well Off Media. 

Also, in the video, Deion Sanders spoke about the familial structure of the Jones family, saying he adopted Jerry Jones’ parenting style.

“I’m trying to be like you guys man, trying to keep the kids around everything,” said Sanders while speaking to Jones and his son, Dallas Cowboys Vice President Stephen Jones. 

Although both sons are eligible for the draft this season, Deion Sanders says they will return to Colorado next season. Shedeur broke records and put up great numbers in his first season for the Colorado Buffaloes’ offense, with 3,230 yards, 27 touchdowns, and three interceptions. 

“They’re going to come out for the NFL Draft at the same time next year,” Sanders told The Dan Patrick Show on Nov. 7th. “They’re not trying to leave Daddy this year, by the way.”

Shedeur Sanders has been consistently ranked third in the 2024 NFL Draft class by ESPN analysts behind USC’s Caleb Williams and UNC’s Drake Maye. Staying an extra year could work well for the Buffaloes QB as he could become the front-runner in the 2025 NFL Draft.  

The post Shedeur Sanders could be top pick in NFL draft says Jerry Jones appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“To EVERYONE who has been there for us, supported us, and shown us love…
We have mutually decided that it is best for us to move forward in life AS FRIENDS and have made this decision with love in our hearts, respect for each other, and appreciation for the time we’ve shared together. Please keep us in your prayers as we go through this transition. Thank you for being there for us ALL THESE YEARS! We love you and appreciate you SO MUCH! ðŸðŸ½â¤ï¸,” Edmonds posted, with the signature “Tracey and Deion.”

Deion Sanders commented on the post as well. 

“Love u Tracey and You’ve been a true blessing to me. I appreciate the times we’ve shared and they laughs we’ve had. You are an amazing woman and a tremendous mother. God bless u with every endeavor and every step u take. You are HER. Tracey-Mack !!!,” Sanders posted.

Tracey Edmonds and Sanders have dated for well over a decade, including his entire two-year stint at Jackson State. Their was even briefly talk of bringing back College Hill, which Edmonds produced, in a JSU-reboot. That never happened and the two have now gone their separate ways for now.

The post Deion Sanders and Tracey Edmonds announce split appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Deion Sanders was recognized by the publication for his impact on not only Colorado football after coming over from Jackson State, but on the university as a whole as well as the city.

First-year applications are up 26.4% year over year; Black or African American applications are up 80.6%; nonresident applications are up 29.8%; and international applications are up 38.4% from 97 countries, including 16 that didn’t have any applications last year. While those numbers cannot be definitively linked to Sanders, others can be: September sales at the school’s online team store were up 2,544% over the same month in 2022. Every home game in 50,183-seat Folsom Field was sold out for the first time in school history.

The Sports Illustrated article by Pat Forde also touched on the cultural impact of Deion Sanders around the community. There was an interview with an African-American studies teacher who invited Sanders to a lecture and was surprised he actually came. There was also an account from Boulder County NAACP President Annette James who says that Sanders is the best thing to happen to the city in her 40-plus years of living there.

“We walked in, and there’s like 30 Black people. My friend said, ‘Oh my God, I’ve never seen that many Black people at a bar in Boulder!’ We started talking to people, and there were some who said they came here from Atlanta for Prime. I think the Black people who live here also have more of a sense of community–not that we didn’t have community before, but we feel free to be more above-ground.”

Sanders was also on the cover of Sports Illustrated at Jackson State, along with Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter back in 2022.

Colorado football finished its first season under Deion Sanders with a 4-8 record. It lost its final six games in a row, but still won three more games than it did in 2022.

The post Deion Sanders named Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year appeared first on HBCU Gameday.