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

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

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

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

The post HBCU flips up-and-coming coach from conference foe appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

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

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

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

CIAA Championship Winner

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

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

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

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

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

The post HBCU parts ways with Coach of the Year appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Virginia State, the newly-minted CIAA champion, displayed dominance in its first-round matchup, securing an 80-64 victory over West Chester. The Trojans now focus on a tough battle against No. 2 seed Gannon in the NCAA Atlantic Region Semifinals. Led by its dynamic playmakers, Virginia State looks to extend its postseason run and reinforce its status as a powerhouse in HBCU basketball.  

Fayetteville State also made a strong statement, outlasting Fairmont State 74-67 in an overtime thriller. The Broncos, champion of the CIAA Southern Division, will now face a formidable challenge in No. 1 seed West Liberty, the tournament host. Its resilience and ability to step up in big moments will be key as it aims for an upset.  

These victories not only mark big milestones for Virginia State and Fayetteville State but also elevate the profile of the CIAA as one of the premier conferences in Division II basketball. Each team is proving that HBCU programs are more than capable of competing — and winning — on the national stage. As they continue their journey in the NCAA Tournament, their performances serve as an inspiration for future HBCU athletes and a testament to the legacy of excellence within the CIAA.  

The post NCAA Tournament sees two HBCU programs advance appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

This marks the first time the CIAA has claimed three bids to the tournament since 2013 when Bowie State, Livingstone College and Winston-Salem State all made it in to an Atlantic Regional hosted at West Liberty.

Savannah State, meanwhile, is the lone representative for the SIAC. SSU was 10-11 after 21 games this season but got red hot just in time, winning eight in a row to claim the league title and the no.8 spot. It will face off against Nova Southeastern, host of the Southern Regional.

Lincoln (MO) is headed back to the NCAA tournament for the first time since 1981 after winning the GLVC and finishing with a 23-8 record. LUMO will play Lake Superior State in the first round of the Midwest Regional.

Five HBCU basketball teams in the NCAA Division II tournament isn’t unpresedented, but it has been quite a while. 

HBCU women

The NCAA Division II men’s basketball tournament bracket has been revealed and a total of three HBCU programs — two from the CIAA — will compete for a national title. 

CIAA champion Fayetteville State will be joined in the Atlantic Region by Virginia State. SIAC champion Miles College will carry the flag for its HBCU conference.

Virginia State, CIAA runner-up, received an at-large bid, slotted no. 8 in the Atlantic Region. It will take on no. 1 seed Edinboro of the PSAC, the host of the tournament. 

Fayetteville State, the back-to-back CIAA champion, earned the no.7 bid in the Atlantic Region. It will take on Fairmont State (27-4) of the Mountain East Conference.  This marks the return of FSU to the NCAA Tournament after making a multiple-game run last season. 

Miles College, meanwhile, is the lone representative for the SIAC. It will take on no. 1 Union.

The post HBCU basketball gets eight in D2 NCAA Tournament appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Junior Nyah Wilkins was recognized as the CIAA Tournament MVP after averaging nine points and 6.7 rebounds over three games. She played a crucial role in the tournament, scoring 12 points with six rebounds and two steals in the victory over Bluefield State, followed by a double-double performance of 11 points and 10 rebounds against Virginia Union. Both Wilkins and McLaughlin earned spots on the CIAA All-Tournament Team.

Fayetteville State’s defensive intensity proved to be a game-changer, limiting Virginia State to just 14.3 percent shooting from beyond the arc and forcing 18 turnovers, which led to 13 points off takeaways. McLaughlin’s three steals were instrumental in disrupting the Trojans’ offensive rhythm.

The Broncos set the tone early, closing the first quarter with an 11-8 lead. Their momentum carried into the second quarter, where they extended their advantage to 32-17, fueled by a 6-0 run punctuated by a three-pointer from Daziyahna Wilson. Fayetteville State’s efficiency from deep was a key factor, as they knocked down six three-pointers in the second quarter alone.

In the third quarter, the Broncos maintained control, using a 7-0 run to push their lead to 48-32. Virginia State attempted a late rally, but Fayetteville State held firm, entering the final quarter with a 51-39 advantage and never relinquishing control.

Fayetteville State finished the game with eight made three-pointers while holding Virginia State to 36.2 percent shooting from the field. Despite a dominant performance from Virginia State’s Amesha Miller, who led all scorers with 19 points and 10 rebounds, the Trojans were unable to overcome Fayetteville State’s balanced attack and defensive pressure.

With this victory, Fayetteville State secured its second straight CIAA championship, further cementing its legacy in the conference. The Broncos now hold a 6-11 record in championship play dating back to 1976, with their first-ever title coming in 1979, when they also defeated Virginia State, 63-61.

The post Fayetteville State claims second straight CIAA Title appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

FAYETTEVILLE, NC —Tairell Fletcher, Caleb Simmons and Myles Pierre each notched at least 20 points to help lead the Fayetteville State men’s basketball team, a North Carolina HBCU, race past Carolina Christian 135-65 at home Saturday. The game was the final of the regular season for the CIAA Southern Division Champions.

The Broncos final score of 135-65 broke an all-time school scoring record that has been held since 1980. This win also awarded Head Coach Luke D’Alessio with his 300th career winning game. 

The Broncos (21-7) had five players score in double figures, led by Fletcher, who recorded a double-double with 24 points and 10 assists. Simmons added 22 points, seven rebounds and two steals and Pierre helped out with 21 points off the bench.

Fayetteville State shared the ball well in Saturday’s non CIAA contest, racking up 20 assists on 53 made field goals. Fletcher’s 10 assists paced the Broncos and Marcus Elliott also added three assists of his own.

The Broncos forced 15 turnovers while committing only six themselves in Saturday’s game. The Broncos turned those takeaways into 32 points on the other end of the floor. Ezekiel Cannedy led the way individually with four steals.

How It Happened

After jumping out to a 25-9 advantage, Fayetteville State went on a 10-0 run with 12:59 left in the first half to increase its lead to 35-9. The Broncos then added 16 points to that lead by the end of the period and entered halftime with a 71-29 advantage. Fayetteville State relied on its three-point shooting in the period, knocking down 13 shots to account for 39 of its 71 points.

Following intermission, FSU kept widening that lead, expanding it to 99-49 before going on a 7-0 run, finished off by Cannedy’s layup, to grow the lead to 106-49 with 10:22 to go in the basketball game. The Broncos kept expanding the margin and coasted the rest of the way for the 135-65 win. FSU took care of business in the paint, recording 38 of its 64 points in the lane.

FSU now moves on to the CIAA Tournament, the storied HBCU basketball tournament which tips off in Baltimore, Maryland on Monday.

Game Notes» Tairell Fletcher notched a double-double for the Broncos with 24 points and 10 assists.
» The Broncos made over half of their attempts from three point range, knocking down 21 of 38 shots.
» Fayetteville State never trailed on the way to a 135-65 victory.
» Fayetteville State tallied 20 total assists in the game.
» Tairell Fletcher collected 10 assists for Fayetteville State.
» Myles Pierre was lethal from behind the three point line, knocking down seven treys.
» The Fayetteville State bench made an impact by adding 61 points to its scoring output.
» Five Fayetteville State players scored 10 or more points.
» Myles Pierre and Jayden Beloti came off the bench to score 21 and 14 points, respectively.
» The Broncos turned 15 turnovers into 32 points on the offensive end.
» Fayetteville St. shot 66 percent from the field to economically reach their 135 point total.
» Fayetteville State had a 47-26 edge on the boards in the win.
» The Fayetteville State defense forced 15 turnovers.
» Fayetteville State turned the ball over six times while dishing out 20 assists.
» The Broncos had three players score over 20 points in the contest. Tairell Fletcher led the way with 24 points, Caleb Simmons had 22, and Myles Pierre added 21.
» Fayetteville State got a game-high eight rebounds from Javon Floyd.

The post HBCU hoops team breaks 45 year old scoring record appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Fayetteville State had a strong showing with five players scoring in double figures. Ezekiel Cannedy led the team with 20 points, while Tairell Fletcher also contributed 20 points along with five assists. Javon Floyd was a force on the boards, recording a double-double with 14 points and 13 rebounds. The Broncos dominated the offensive glass, pulling down 13 offensive rebounds that resulted in 21 second-chance points.

The Broncos’ defense was also effective, forcing 13 turnovers and converting them into 17 points. Floyd’s defensive efforts were highlighted by his one steal. Fayetteville State started strong, jumping out to a 27-24 lead and then going on an 8-0 run to extend their advantage to 35-24. They maintained this momentum and entered halftime with a 45-34 lead, thanks in part to their three-point shooting, which accounted for 18 of their first-half points.

In the second half, Fayetteville State continued to hold their lead and even extended it to 74-64 with just over four minutes remaining in regulation. However, Claflin mounted a comeback, tying the game at 78-78 and forcing overtime. In the extra period, the Panthers managed to edge ahead, culminating in Fauntleroy’s game-winning shot.

Interestingly, this game mirrored the excitement of their January 25th match-up in Orangeburg, SC, where the Broncos emerged victorious on a buzzer-beating three-pointer by Ezekiel Cannedy. Despite the loss this time, Fayetteville State showed resilience and skill, particularly in their rebounding and defensive efforts. The Broncos’ record now stands at 17-9 overall and 10-5 in the CIAA, while Claflin improved to 20-7 overall and 12-4 in the conference. The game was a testament to the competitive spirit and determination of both teams.

The post CIAA game comes down to OT buzzer-beater appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“We are in the preliminary stages of conducting our own independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding yesterday’s incident involving my client Darrell Armstrong.  Mr. Armstrong has been an upstanding member of the Dallas community during his playing days and as a coach. 

We will have more to say about this incident in the coming days.”

The Dallas Mavericks sent WFAA the following statement Sunday afternoon: 

”The Dallas Mavericks are aware of an incident involving a member of our staff and are gathering all relevant information surrounding the incident. We take this matter seriously. The employee has been placed on administrative suspension pending the outcome of legal proceedings. This matter is currently under review by the appropriate legal authorities. Due to this fact, we will allow the legal process to run its course and we will refrain from further comment while proceedings are ongoing.”

Armstrong has long been revered as one of the recent success stories of HBCU sports. He came to Fayetteville State to play football  and managed to walk on to the football team. Known as ‘Sky’ for his leaping ability, he went on to find his way to the NBA, winning Sixth Man of the Year and Most Improved Player. He spent two of his 14 professional seasons with the Mavericks as a player before joining the NBA franchise as an assistant coach. 

The post Dallas Mavericks assistant arrested for assault in dispute appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Cook is a safety who started his career at Howard University before finishing up with Cincinnati. The Chiefs selected him in the second round of the 2022 draft. Williams is a cornerback who played his career at Division II HBCU Fayetteville State University.

“It’s a blessing. To be able to do this three years in a row — ever since my rookie year I’ve really been winning. Coming into the league that really is unheard of,” Williams told KSHB after the win. “It’s really hard to put into words how blessed I am to have gotten picked up by Kansas City and to be a part of history right now. I know we’ve got a lot to do, going into New Orleans, but just to e over here right now soaking in the moment — it’s a blessing.”

Both men are part of a rare group of NFL players who have multiple Super Bowl rings. But a win against the Eagles would make them part of the first franchise in history to win three straight Super Bowls — and they would have done it in their first three seasons. 

“It’s unbelievable. I couldn’t have imagined coming into this game, doing the preparation that we’ve done and walking out of here with a loss,” Williams continued. “We put in the work, right now it might look like we just keep winning…keep winning…but the things we do behind closed doors — it’s a lot. The preparation that goes into this — it’s a lot.”

The post Super Bowl Bound: Chiefs HBCU products look to make history appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Cannedy led FSU on Saturday with 16 points, one of four Broncos who scored in double figures. Caleb Simmons chipped in 15 points and nine rebounds, while Myles Pierre added 15 points off the bench.

The top player in the game was Zion Obanla from Claflin. He led all scorers with 20 points, shooting a spectacular 8-11 from the field. Obanla is a former soccer player who put on a dazzling display of footwork in the paint, angling himself for efficient buckets in the paint.

As a team, Claflin shot 50 percent from the floor, a positive stat for the potential to win. But Claflin barely got to the free throw line in this game, which proved to be the difference. Fayetteville State was 17-20 from the line for the game, Claflin only shot six free throws the entire game, going 4-6 from the line.

Claflin led the game 59-50 after a Howvante Hutcherson dunk with 4:11 remaining, but the tide shifted at that point in favor of FSU. The Broncos engineered a 17-7 run to end the game and steal the victory. Claflin seemingly had the victory in hand when Jaelin Williams drove straight through the lane to hit a layup with 4.5 seconds on the clock, giving Claflin a 66-64 lead. However, Fayetteville State stayed on track and took the win on Cannedy’s three-pointer with 00:00 left for the 67-66 comeback win. 

The CIAA schedule continues for Fayetteville State with a home matchup on Tuesday against Livingstone College. Claflin returns to a familiar HBCU matchup on Wednesday traveling to Benedict College, a former SIAC foe.

The post CIAA matchup ends on buzzer beater appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Virginia Union University (Grade: A+)

• Preseason Rank: 2nd
• Final Standing: 1st (6-1 conference, 7-3 overall)
• Offensive Ranking: 1st in Total Offense (479.4 yards/game, 61 TDs)
• Defensive Ranking: 4th in Total Defense (295.2 yards/game, 22 TDs allowed)

Highlights:

• Jada Byers, the CIAA Offensive Player of the Year, dominated the field, amassing 1,497 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns. He set school records with 5,311 career rushing yards and 70 touchdowns. This includes a single-game record of 324 yards and six touchdowns against Bowie State.
• Virginia Union clinched the CIAA Championship, defeating Virginia State in a decisive victory.
• The Panthers secured a spot in the NCAA Division II playoffs, representing HBCUs on the national stage.
• VUU’s loss to Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), did not count as conference defeats due to CIAA scheduling rules impacted by St. Augustine’s absence from football this year.

Summary: Virginia Union showcased exceptional prowess on both offense and defense, leading the CIAA. This reinforced its status as a powerhouse among HBCU football programs.

Johnson C. Smith University (Grade: A)

• Preseason Rank: 4th
• Final Standing: 2nd (5-2conference, 8-2 overall)
• Offensive Ranking: 3rd in Total Offense (378.4 yards/game, 32 TDs)
• Defensive Ranking: 1st in Total Defense (246.2 yards/game, 17 TDs allowed)

Highlights:

• Head Coach Maurice Flowers was named CIAA Coach of the Year after leading the Golden Bulls to an impressive season.
• Benari Black, the CIAA Defensive Player of the Year, led a stout defense with 113 tackles. He spearheaded the top-ranked defense in the conference.
• JCSU achieved significant victories over Tuskegee and Morehouse from the SIAC, and delivered Virginia Union their only on-field CIAA loss.
• Despite their strong performance, they suffered a crucial conference loss to Fayetteville State.

Summary: JCSU exceeded preseason expectations. They solidified their reputation within the CIAA and HBCU football. The team combined a formidable defense with strategic coaching. This made them one of the season’s standout teams.

Virginia State University (Grade: B)

• Preseason Rank: 1st
• Final Standing: 3rd (6-1 conference, 7-4 overall)
• Offensive Ranking: 2nd in Total Offense (385.7 yards/game, 43 TDs)
• Defensive Ranking: 2nd in Total Defense (283.5 yards/game, 19 TDs allowed)

Highlights:

• The Trojans secured a notable win against Benedict from the SIAC.
• Bruno Onwuazor earned CIAA Lineman of the Year, contributing to an offense that averaged 6.3 yards per play.
• Defensive Rookie of the Year, Marquis Edmond, bolstered an already strong defense.
• Virginia State’s only victory over a team with a winning record was against Benedict, limiting their impact against top-tier opponents.

Summary: Virginia State showed statistical strength. However, they fell short in securing wins against leading teams within the CIAA. This impacted their overall grade. This happened despite their perfect conference record adjusted by CIAA rules.

Go to Page Two for more CIAA grades

The post HBCU Football: CIAA football grades 2024 appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

CHARLOTTE, NC – On a crisp Saturday afternoon, the Fayetteville State Broncos took to the field with determination and grit, ready to face the undefeated Johnson C. Smith (JCSU) Golden Bulls. The Broncos, sitting at 4-4 for the season and 3-3 in CIAA play, knew they had a tough challenge ahead. But what unfolded was a masterclass in defensive football, as Fayetteville State shut out the Golden Bulls 27-0, handing them their first loss of the season.

“Total team effort today,” jeered Head Coach Richard Hayes. “Offensively, we had a game plan and wanted to come out and attack them. Joe did a pretty good job managing the offense today. Defensively, I feel like we stuffed them. Those guys played really hard, and I am really proud of their effort of our defense. We held them under 200 yards and no points on the board for the No. 16 ranked team in the country. We aren’t done yet!”

From the first whistle, it was clear that Fayetteville State’s defense was in top form. The Broncos held JCSU to a mere 192 total yards, a testament to their relentless pressure and strategic prowess. Joe Owens, Jr., the Broncos’ quarterback, led the charge on offense. He threw for 233 yards, connecting for one touchdown and suffering one interception. Owens also showcased his versatility by adding 45 yards and another touchdown on the ground.

Derrick Alston, Jr. bolstered the rushing attack, gaining 39 yards and scoring a touchdown, while Kameron King was a reliable target in the air, pulling in five catches for 53 yards and a touchdown. But it was the defense that truly shone. Julius Cobbs made a standout play with an interception returned for a touchdown, while Solomon Barnes and Kaydin Thomas added crucial tackles and a sack to stifle the Golden Bulls’ offense.

The game began with a tense first quarter, but it was Fayetteville State who struck first. With 11:08 left in the second quarter, the Broncos broke the deadlock, taking a 7-0 lead. They didn’t stop there. Another score before halftime extended their lead to 14-0, putting the pressure squarely on JCSU.

As the third quarter wound down, Fayetteville State continued to dominate. With just 1:24 left in the quarter, they scored again, making it 21-0. The Broncos weren’t finished yet. They added another touchdown, sealing a commanding 27-0 lead. JCSU could not mount a comeback and were left scoreless as the final whistle blew.

The game was a showcase of Fayetteville State’s strengths. They out-gained JCSU 353-192, including a 120-30 advantage on the ground. The Broncos won the turnover battle 2-1, converting those turnovers into 13 points. They were efficient on third downs, converting 50% of their attempts, and perfect on fourth down.

Fayetteville State’s defense was impenetrable, allowing zero points in two Johnson C. Smith trips to the red zone and forcing one red zone turnover. They didn’t allow a single sack and managed two touchdown-scoring drives of 90 or more yards, the longest spanning 100 yards. The Broncos also controlled the time of possession, holding the ball for 35:34 compared to the Golden Bulls’ 24:26.

Owens’ performance was particularly noteworthy, completing 75% of his passes (24-for-32) and averaging 7.3 yards per attempt. On the other side, Darius Ocean led the Golden Bulls’ passing attack, completing 15 of his 35 attempts for 162 yards but was intercepted twice. Brevin Caldwell was Johnson C. Smith’s leading receiver with 75 yards.

The fans were ecstatic. One tweeted, “What a game! Our defense was unstoppable today. Proud to be a Bronco!” Another shared, “Joe Owens, Jr. was on fire! Great win for Fayetteville State!” The excitement was palpable as fans celebrated the Broncos’ dominant victory and the end of Johnson C. Smith’s undefeated streak.

With this victory, the Broncos set their sights on their final regular season game against Winston-Salem State Rams in Winston-Salem, NC. The game is scheduled for Saturday, November 9th, with a kick-off at 1:00 PM. The Broncos hope to carry this momentum forward and finish the season strong.

The post JCSU undefeated season ends at the hands of Fayetteville State appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Top Contenders

Johnson C. Smith has put together a flawless season so far, boasting an 8-0 record overall and 5-0 in the CIAA. They’ve claimed wins over the conference’s top teams, including Virginia Union, Virginia State, and Winston-Salem State. However, their victory over Virginia Union was not counted as a conference game, which leaves Virginia Union technically undefeated in the CIAA as well.

Virginia Union, currently 5-0 in conference play and 6-2 overall, is hot on Johnson C. Smith’s heels. They’ve also displayed strength, particularly with a key win over Winston-Salem State. Their final regular-season matchup is against Virginia State, a game with massive implications for both teams.

Virginia State stands at 4-1 in the CIAA, with a 5-3 overall record. It faced Winston-Salem State but took a loss in a game that didn’t impact its conference standings. This gives Virginia State an extra boost in their run for the title. Their season-ender against Virginia Union will be one of the most anticipated games of the season, as both teams are fighting for a top-two finish.

Winston-Salem State is not technically out of contention with a 4-2 conference record and a 6-3 overall record. While it has had a strong season, a recent loss has put them just a step behind the top three contenders. It would need the three teams ahead of it to end the season with two conference losses as its win at Virginia State earlier in the season didn’t count as a loss for VSU.

Remaining Challenges and Final Games

Johnson C. Smith faces Fayetteville State next, a team with a strong championship history, having been a staple in the CIAA Championship Game for the past few seasons. This could be Johnson C. Smith’s toughest game yet, as Fayetteville State is known for delivering under high-stakes situations. After that, Johnson C. Smith closes their regular season against Livingstone in a classic rivalry game that could add one final twist to their undefeated run.

For Virginia Union and Virginia State, their season-ending showdown could be a de facto playoff. If both teams maintain their records, this game will likely decide who earns a championship slot. The potential for an intense battle adds further excitement to an already competitive season.

CIAA Championship Hopes on the Line

As the 2024 CIAA season races toward its conclusion, these HBCU teams are each pushing to secure their place in the championship. With only two spots available, every play, every drive, and every game could shape the final outcome. While Johnson C. Smith and Virginia Union are currently in control, the unpredictable nature of college football means that anything can happen in these final weeks.

Whoever prevails will not only earn the CIAA title but also bring pride to their HBCU, representing the top level of talent and competition in the conference.

The post HBCU Football: CIAA Championship race narrows with two weeks to go appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Offensive Matchup:

• Livingstone College averages 275.8 total yards per game, balanced between 133.8 rushing yards and 142 passing yards. Mohamed Nyanamukenga leads their ground game, averaging 95.4 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Zorian Wallace is efficient, with a completion percentage of 58.3% and 389 passing yards over four games, supported by a receiving corps led by Angel Carrillo and Chris Washington.
• Fayetteville State averages 323.8 total yards per game, with a slight edge in passing (223.2 yards) over rushing (100.6 yards). Joe Owens is the primary quarterback, throwing for 694 yards and four touchdowns, with David Baros as a key target, averaging 66.6 yards per game.

Defensive Matchup:

• Livingstone’s defense has shown resilience, allowing 275.3 yards per game and recording 15 sacks. Their defense is led by Davion Watkins, who has tallied 4.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss, while Kevin Larkins Jr. has contributed an interception return for 16 yards.
• Fayetteville State’s defense is slightly more porous, allowing 317.8 yards per game but excelling in sacks with 12 on the season. Shi Gaskin has been particularly effective with four sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss.

Special Teams:

• Livingstone College has a solid kicking game, with Jason Zapata hitting 9 of 11 field goals, including a long of 49 yards. Chancellor Bryant also contributes on punt returns, averaging 16.2 yards per return, including a 50-yard touchdown.
• Fayetteville State has John Hernandez-Vargas, who has made 6 of 8 field goals with a long of 43 yards. Their special teams unit also features a reliable return game, with Anthony Greene averaging 19.71 yards per kick return.

Key Storylines:

• Both teams feature strong defenses capable of creating pressure, but the battle may come down to which offense can protect the ball better. Fayetteville State has thrown 4 interceptions this season compared to Livingstone’s 8, potentially giving FSU an edge in turnover battles.
• Livingstone’s ability to control the clock with its run game, powered by Nyanamukenga, will be a key factor against Fayetteville State’s balanced attack.

This matchup between HBCU squads and contending rivals could hinge on field position, turnovers, and big plays in the special teams and defensive units. Livingstone is off to a 4-2 start, its best start in a decade. Meanwhile, Fayetteville State is off to its worst start since 2017. Expect a tightly contested battle, with both teams looking to build momentum in the second half of the season.

The post HBCU homecoming clash: Livingstone vs. Fayetteville State appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The victory improved Fayetteville State’s record to 1-0 on the season while the Braves fell to 0-2. This was the second win in the last three games for the HBCU squad.

Demari Daniels totaled 66 yards to lead the Broncos’ ground attack and added two touchdowns in the game, picking up 8.2 yards per carry along the way. also tacked on 45 yards on the ground, picking up 22.5 yards per carry.

David Baros hauled in six catches for 116 yards.

Caleb Legrand paced the Fayetteville State defensive effort, recording five tackles, one interception, and one recovered fumble. Theniias Moss added three tackles and one recovered fumble and Solomon Barnes had three tackles, one forced fumble, and one recovered fumble in the win.

The Broncos won the turnover battle in Saturday’s game, forcing four turnovers while coughing the ball up two times, with Fayetteville State turning those takeaways into 10 points.

Fayetteville State’s defense held up against UNC Pembroke’s offense, allowing 287 total yards.

How It Happened

In a thrilling game, Pembroke took an early lead with a 5-yard touchdown pass from Tre Robinson to Josiah Hayes. Fayetteville State responded with two field goals by John Hernandez-Vargas, narrowing the gap. A 23-yard punt return by Theniias Moss gave FSU the lead, but Pembroke’s D’Marcus Harrington intercepted a pass for a 40-yard touchdown, reclaiming the advantage. Just before halftime, Josh Jenkins caught a 17-yard pass from Robinson, extending Pembroke’s lead to 21-13.

In the third quarter, Ty Woods added a 41-yard field goal for the Braves, but the Bronco’s Emanuel Ortega-Garcia caught a 15-yard touchdown pass from Demari Daniels, bringing the score to 24-21. Daniels then ran for a 10-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, putting FSU ahead 28-24. Pembroke’s Jayden Smith caught a 4-yard pass from Colin Johnson, giving Pembroke a 31-28 lead with just over a minute left. However, Daniels’ 11-yard touchdown run in the final seconds secured a dramatic 35-31 victory for FSU.
 Game Notes

» Fayetteville State outgained North Carolina-Pembroke 363-287, including a 206-166 advantage through the air.
» Fayetteville State won the turnover battle 4-2 after intercepting one pass and recovering three fumbles.
» Fayetteville State had their highest scoring quarter in the fourth period when they put up 14 points.
» Fayetteville State converted 5 of 14 third downs while North Carolina-Pembroke was successful on 5 of 15.
» Shi Gaskin led the Broncos with nine tackles.
» The Broncos totaled eight tackles for loss and added three sacks.
» Tre Robinson led the Braves passing attack, completing 13 of his 24 attempts for 134 yards and two touchdowns.
» Josiah Hayes was North Carolina-Pembroke’s leading receiver with 57 yards and one touchdown.
»  Head Coach Richard Hayes is now 2-2 in the 11-game series of the Two Rivers Classic

The post HBCU pushes past local rival in season-opener appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The former Fayetteville State University lineman suffered a season-ending ACL tear in a preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons. He was down for several minutes before being helped off the field.

It is a tough setback for Smith, who hails from Lumberton, North Carolina. He was thought to have a legitimate chance to start this season prior to his injury.

He honed his skills at Fayetteville State University (FSU), where he played as an offensive lineman. Despite the setbacks of the COVID-19 pandemic, which wiped out his 2020 season, Smith continued to train rigorously, determined to pursue a professional football career.

Smith’s hard work culminated in signing a free-agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons in 2021. While his initial NFL experience involved time on practice squads, Smith remained undeterred. His persistence paid off in 2023 when he earned a spot on the Miami Dolphins’ 53-man roster. Smith made his NFL debut as a left tackle, marking a significant milestone in his career.

Smith’s rise to the NFL is particularly noteworthy considering his background as an HBCU athlete. His success story highlights the talent and potential that exist within HBCU programs, often overlooked in the broader football landscape. Smith serves as an inspiration for young athletes, especially those from smaller programs, demonstrating that determination and hard work can lead to success at the highest level of the sport.

Smith’s story is a reminder that the journey to professional sports is rarely linear, but for those willing to put in the work, the rewards can be tremendous. His future in the NFL looks promising as he continues to “stack days” and strive for excellence on and off the field.

The post Miami Dolphins OL, former HBCU star done for the year appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

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”.

The post Dennis Smith Jr. sponsors golf tourney for hometown HBCU appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The New CIAA Format: What Does It Mean for the Broncos?

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) has revamped its playoff structure for 2024. The elimination of the Northern and Southern divisions means that only the top two teams with the best overall records will advance to the championship game. For the Broncos, who have consistently ruled their division, this change introduces a new level of competition. A team that was once a shoo-in for the title game might now find itself on the outside looking in if they don’t perform at the top of their game.

Coach Richard Hayes remarked on the new format, “Every game is now a battle. We have to bring our best each week if we want to stay in the race for the championship.”

Offensive Struggles: A Major Concern

One of the key issues facing Fayetteville State this season is their offensive performance. Last year, the Broncos struggled to put points on the board, averaging just 16.7 points per game. While their defense was a strong point, giving up only 15.4 points per game, the inability to score consistently created a significant imbalance. This offensive struggle has been a focus for the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Coach Hayes acknowledged the challenge, stating, “We know we need to step up our game on offense. Our defense has been rock solid, but we have to put more points on the board to win games.”

CIAA Key Players to Watch

The Broncos are bringing back several key players who could make a significant impact this season:

• Michael Todd: The redshirt senior offensive lineman is making a return to anchor the O-line. His presence is expected to be crucial for the Broncos’ offensive strategy.
• Kolby Merritt: The defensive back had a standout season last year and is back to fortify the defense. Merritt’s impressive stats from last season underscore his importance to the team.
• Josiah Boyd: The punter from Fayetteville is also back, having made a significant impact last year with his punting skills.

Regarding his key players, Hayes mentioned, “We’ve got a solid group of returners who know what it takes to win. They’re ready to lead by example and elevate the entire team.”

New Offensive Coordinator hopes to make impact

A new addition to the coaching staff is Kevin McGouirk, who steps in as the offensive coordinator. McGouirk, with experience from Methodist College in South Carolina and HBCU Division I South Carolina State, is tasked with addressing the Broncos’ scoring issues. Coach Hayes is hopeful that McGouirk’s fresh approach and innovative strategies will help turn the offense around and boost their point production.

“Coach McGouirk brings a lot of energy and fresh ideas to our offense,” Hayes said. “I’m confident he’ll help us find the end zone more often this season.”

The Road Ahead: Navigating New Challenges

With the new playoff format and offensive struggles, Fayetteville State’s road to the CIAA championship is more uncertain than ever. The Broncos need to address their scoring issues while maintaining their strong defensive play. Each game this season will be crucial as they vie for one of the top two spots to secure a championship berth.

As the 2024 HBCU football season kicks off, many eyes will be on the Fayetteville State Broncos. Will they overcome their offensive woes and adapt to the new playoff structure, or will they face new hurdles in their quest for a championship? One thing’s for sure: the Broncos are geared up and ready to show what they’re made of. Stay tuned for more updates and keep cheering for your HBCU teams! 

The post HBCU Football: CIAA predictions show Fayetteville State has doubters appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The luncheon provided a VIP opportunity to meet and greet the NCAA Hall of Fame coach, who retired in 2021. Coach Williams, with 48 years of coaching experience, spent 18 seasons as the head coach at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and 15 seasons at the University of Kansas. He also coached at Charles D. Owen High School.

Williams amassed a total of 903 wins, ranking third all-time in Division I history at the time of his retirement. His teams made nine Final Four appearances and won three NCAA championships in 2005, 2009, and 2017, all with North Carolina. Williams was known for his fast-paced, high-scoring teams and exceptional recruiting skills. He earned numerous accolades, including induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2007.

The proceeds from the luncheon, which included a silent auction, are dedicated to supporting Habitat for Humanity’s mission of providing more affordable housing in the local community.

Director of Athletics Anthony Bennett expressed, “It was a great opportunity for the Broncos to team up with Brandon Price and the Fayetteville Area Habitat for Humanity once again to make a difference in our community.

The post University of North Carolina legend part of HBCU fundraiser appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The UNC System Board of Governors has eliminated its policy requiring diversity, equity and inclusion offices at all public universities in the state. The vote passed with several other policies on the board’s consent agenda.

“Our public universities must take a stance of principled neutrality on matters of political controversy,” Hans said. “Faculty and students are free to weigh in on all manner of current events and high-profile issues, while university staff must exercise restraint.”

Anti-DEI bills in Florida led to five jobs being lost at the University of Florida, including the chief diversity officer position. The BOG said in a statement that the DEI policy removal does not require the elimination of identity-based centers.

“Campuses will continue to implement programming and services to assist students of different backgrounds to improve academic performance,” the UNC System said in a statement. “As long as programs comply with legal requirements for institutional neutrality and nondiscrimination.”

Only two members of the board voted against the anti-DEI measure – both of them HBCU graduates. They were North Carolina A&T graduate Joel Ford and Florida A&M alumna Sonja P. Nichols.

The UNC System includes five HBCUs: Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, North Carolina A&T State University, North Carolina Central University and Winston-Salem State University. 

The latter three of those institutions – NC A&T, NCCU and WSSU  – are all looking for new chancellors.

North Carolina Central released a statement on Thursday.

“We are dedicated to providing our students with training and programs that help them thrive. This dedication is the cornerstone of ‘The Eagle Promise,’ a pledge we make to our scholars, promising they’ll be ready to pursue and succeed in their future endeavors with our supportive environment.”

The post UNC System BOG downs DEI policy as HBCU grads stand up appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The state lottery commission reports that more than $105 million was lost in the state on sports betting in the first full month since it became legal. The number was $66 million for March, which only accounted for the final two-thirds of the month. Eighteen percent of that money goes back to the state, coming out to more than $30 million in tax revenue so far.

The five public HBCUs stand to benefit from the move. Those HBCUs are Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, N.C. Agricultural & Technical State University, N.C. Central University, and Winston-Salem State University. Up to $300,000 annually will go to these universities along with Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, University of North Carolina at Asheville, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, University of North Carolina at Pembroke and University of North Carolina at Wilmington.

Millions will also go to the Department of Health and Human Services for gambling addiction education and treatment programs and youth sports iniatives.

Once all the primary money has been distributed, twenty percent of what remains will be distributed evenly among the 13 state universities to support collegiate athletic departments.

The post North Carolina HBCUs cash in as gambling losses hit $100 million appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Fayetteville State will face Valdosta State University for the first time in program history. Valdosta State has won six Division II national championships, with the last coming in 2018. The team is coached by Tremaine Jackson, a former defensive lineman at Texas Southern.

Additionally, the team will play Elizabeth City State, Virginia State, and Bowie State as part of a two-year CIAA rotating schedule.

The Broncos will start the season with a familiar opponent against UNC Pembroke in the Two Rivers Classic.

The team will begin conference play against Elizabeth City State University on September 21st. The Broncos’ Military Appreciation Game against Bowie State University will be broadcast on national television by HBCU GO on October 5th.

The final home game of the regular season will serve as both Homecoming and Senior Day. The Broncos will play against Shaw University at 2:30 pm.


Fayetteville State University 2024 Football Schedule

The post Fayetteville State releases 2024 football schedule appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

 
Fayetteville State had an exceptional season with a record-breaking 29-3 overall record and reaching the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA playoffs. Coach Brown was recognized as the CIAA Coach of the Year, while senior Aniylah Bryant earned the CIAA Player of the Year and Tournament MVP titles. She also received Atlantic Region All-Tournament Team and D2CCA All-Atlantic Region Team honors. Additionally, junior Morgan Graham was named the CIAA Defensive Player of the Year.
 
Coach Brown previously worked as an assistant coach for the women’s basketball program for nine seasons, starting in 2011. With his assistance, the Broncos made four appearances in the CIAA Championship game and won the title in 2020. Brown, a native of Philadelphia, Pa., is a 2008 graduate of Fayetteville State University, where he played on the basketball team as a two-year starter. He played a significant role in leading the team to a Championship appearance in 2005. In 2008, he was one of only three HBCU basketball athletes to receive the Arthur Ashe Award, which recognizes scholar-athletes who excel in athletics, academics, and community activism.
 

The post Fayetteville State removes interim title from championship coach appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“On a pound-for-pound basis, we expect that North Carolina is going to be one of the better states for sure,” said Gary Deutsch, the chief financial officer for BetMGM, one of the eight operators in North Carolina. “There’s fervent sports-fan interest. The population of fans for the different colleges down there should make that a big source of excitement.”

The state budget also allocated $1.16 million for each of the 13 athletic departments from sports betting revenue in the 2024-25 budget. So the 10 initial programs (including HBCUs) could see close to $2 million for the fiscal year that starts July 1 as the state reaps the benefits of sports betting.

Universities in North Carolina cannot use state funds for athletics unless they are specifically marked for sports. This often leads to heavy reliance on student-athletics fees. So when sports betting was on the table in the state a few years ago, legislators and athletics directors discussed a plan to help bring in additional revenue for the state’s smaller programs. It took a while to pass, but it happened last summer and now HBCUs, as well as others, stand to benefit from mobile sports betting in North Carolina.  

The post Sports betting in North Carolina to bolster bottom line at HBCUs appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Keayna McLaughlin led the way with 17 points on 7-for-10 shooting for the game, as FSU came back from a six-point deficit in the first quarter and held ECSU to seven points in the second quarter to take a 28-24 lead at halftime. The game remained close throughout and went into the fourth quarter with a 44-43 lead for Fayetteville State. ECSU hit just 23 percent from the field in the fourth quarter while Fayetteville State hit all ten of its free throws to seal the win. 

The Fayetteville State defense forced 17 turnovers.

Aniylah Bryant was named the CIAA Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. She scored 12 points on Saturday, following an impressive 31-point point performance that saw her hit all 11 of her free throws. Talia Trotter and Nyah Wilkins scored 12 points each as well for FSU. 

Elizabeth City State, the defending CIAA Champions, fell to 20-11 on the season. 

The post Fayetteville State takes down ECSU in CIAA title game appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Fayetteville State women punched their ticket to the CIAA title game with a dominant performance over a top 25 Virginia State team. FSU won 86-61 as Aniylah Bryant showed why she was the CIAA Women’s Player of The Year. Bryant put up 31 points on 11-for-11 shooting from the field, hitting all six of her 3-point attempts in the win. She did miss two free throws, however that may have only been to show that she was human.

FSU will face an Elizabeth City State (20-10) team that comes in with four consecutive wins. The newly crowned CIAA North champions and defending CIAA champs disposed of Claflin with a 70-58 win to start off Friday’s semifinal action.

The two teams met early in the CIAA season, with FSU getting the better of Elizabeth City State with a 67-63 win on the road. Saturday’s matchup, of course, will be on a neutral court.

The Fayetteville State men punched their ticket to the CIAA title game for the third time in four seasons with a 53-51 win over Virginia Union. Both teams struggled offensively, but FSU got a 20 point, nine rebound game from Caleb Simmons.

It will square off against a Lincoln team that is one season removed from its first-ever appearance in the CIAA title game. It beat a talented Claflin team 58-52 in the CIAA quarterfinals on Friday to advance back to the championship game. 

The women’s game is set to tip off at 1 PM with the men’s game to follow at 4 PM. 

The post CIAA Championships: Fayetteville State to face ECSU, Lincoln appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Broncos (17-12 overall) had three players score in double figures, led by Tairell Fletcher, who had 24 points and six rebounds. Kaleb Coleman tacked on 21 points, six rebounds and three steals and Caleb Simmons helped out with 15 points and nine rebounds.

Fayetteville State out-rebounded Bowie State 31-19 in Wednesday’s game, led by Simmons’ nine boards.

The Fayetteville State defense was a problem in Wednesday’s game, forcing 14 Bowie State turnovers while committing 13. Those takeaways turned into 15 points on the offensive end of the floor. Coleman’s three steals led the way individually for the Broncos.

How It Happened

After jumping out to a 14-11 advantage, Fayetteville State went on an 8-0 run with 11:41 left in the first half, culminating in a three from Coleman, to increase its lead to 22-11. The Broncos then added one point to that lead by the end of the period and entered halftime with a 37-25 advantage. Fayetteville State relied on its three-point shooting in the period, knocking down five shots to account for 15 of its 37 points.

Following intermission, Fayetteville State kept widening that lead, expanding it to 55-41 before going on a 10-0 run, finished off by Fletcher’s three, to grow the lead to 65-41 with 4:36 to go in the contest. The Broncos held onto that lead for the rest of the game for the 77-53 win.

Game Notes» The Broncos made over half of their attempts from three point range, knocking down eight of 14 shots.
» The Broncos never trailed in the second half on its way to victory.
» Tairell Fletcher, Kaleb Coleman, and Caleb Simmons combined to account for 78 percent of the Broncos points.
» Fayetteville State had a 31-19 edge on the boards in the win.
» The Fayetteville State defense forced 14 turnovers.
» Tairell Fletcher had a game-high 24 points and Kaleb Coleman added 21.
» Fayetteville State got a game-high nine rebounds from Caleb Simmons.

The post Fayetteville State men send Bowie State packing appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Aniylah Bryant led the Broncos (23-2, 16-1) with 24 points, eight rebounds and three steals. Keayna McLaughlin also added nine points and four assists and Amina Mileschipped in as well with seven points and seven rebounds.

The Fayetteville State offense was very productive from deep, making nine threes on 16 attempts. Bryant was the most prolific shooter for the Broncos, draining five treys in the contest.

The Fayetteville State defense held Saint Augustine’s shooters to just 32.8 percent from the field, including 29.4 percent from three-point range.

How It Happened

After falling behind 8-0, Fayetteville State went on an 8-0 run with 6:55 left in the first quarter, culminating in a three from Nyah Wilkins, to tie the game at eight. Saint Augustine’s then pulled ahead, sending the Broncos into the second quarter down 15-10.

Saint Augustine’s kept adding to that lead, building a 22-13 advantage before Fayetteville State went on a 6-0 run, highlighted by a bucket from Miles, to narrow its deficit to 22-19. The Broncos then kept gaining ground and tied the contest at 32-32 heading into halftime. Fayetteville State was strong from deep in the period, knocking down three three-point shots to account for nine of its 22 points.

After intermission, Saint Augustine’s snatched a 43-36 lead before Fayetteville State answered back by going on a 5-0 run, punctuated by a basket from Ashara Hayes, to trim its deficit to 43-41 with 4:16 to go in the third. The Broncos continued their rally and brought things level at 49-49 entering the fourth quarter. Fayetteville State scored four fast break points in the quarter.

Fayetteville State started the fourth with a bang, going on a 7-0 run, finished off by Miles’ jumper, to seize a 56-49 lead with 7:12 to go in the contest. The Broncos held onto that lead for the rest of the game for the 64-57 win. Fayetteville State fired away from deep in the quarter, knocking down two shots to account for six of its 15 points.

This win gives the Broncos the best regular season record of 24-2 in program history. FSU was 25-2 in 1976 when the women were CIAA Runner-ups.

Game Notes

» The Broncos outscored Saint Augustine’s 8-15 in the fourth quarter to break a 49-49 third quarter tie.
» The Broncos made over half of their attempts from three point range, knocking down nine of 16 shots.
» The Broncos held the Falcons to only 32.8 percent shooting from the field.
» The Broncos were active in affecting shots on the defensive end, recording five blocks as a team.
» Aniylah Bryant led the Broncos with a game-high 24 points.
» Fayetteville State got a team-high eight rebounds from Aniylah Bryant.

The women end the season as the Southern Division champions so they will play Wednesday, February 28th at the CIAA tournament.

The post Fayetteville State women wrap historic season appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Fayetteville State is currently tied for third with Fairmont State of the Mountain East Conference. Both teams tip off the week with records of 14-2 overall after losing 63-53 to Johnson C. Smith in Charlotte on Saturday. It was ranked second in the previous week’s poll.

Virginia State is ranked fifth in the region with a record of 15-2. It dropped from the no. 3 spot in the region after falling 70-56 to rival Virginia Union on Saturday. 

There are two HBCUs in the South Region ranked as well – both of them in the SIAC. Kentucky State and Miles College are both ranked in the region. KYSU is ranked no. 7 in the region with a record of 13-2. Just behind it is Miles College with a record of 13-1. Savannah State is also receiving votes. 

The post Four HBCU basketball teams ranked in D2 polls appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Kion Smith positioned himself at left tackle of the Miami Dolphins offensive line on October 29th, 2023 against the New England Patriots for a snap that would mark both a beginning and symbolic end to his football journey. It was the final step of a dream to play in the National Football League (NFL) but also the beginning of more work to come to play at the highest level of the game.

Flash forward to the present day and Smith’s Dolphins team prepares for an AFC playoff battle at Arrowhead Stadium in chilly Kansas City against the Chiefs, a game that will put Smith and former Broncos cornerback Joshua Williams on opposite sidelines of an NFL field for the second time this season following their meeting in Frankfurt, Germany last November.

The Dolphins and Chiefs game kicks off today (Saturday, January 13th) at 8:00 PM Eastern Time and can be watched by subscribing to the Peacock streaming service that will carry the exclusive broadcast.

“The amazing thing about both of those guys is that they both went to the NFL even though they had another year to come back and play for us,” said Broncos Head Football Coach Richard Hayes. “That’s unheard of at this level. I’m proud of both of those guys and will continue to support them while they are in the league.”

“Stack days,” Kion Smith said in his recent conversation on Fayetteville State’s campus with the Broncos Sports Network. “You aren’t going to be perfect, and they aren’t looking for perfection, they just want you to get better. It was my mindset every day to go in and get better and continue to look ahead. I wasn’t complacent and once I got to the NFL the work didn’t stop. It got harder in fact, and I’ve stuck with it.”

Along the long road towards this moment were stops at Lumberton High School in his hometown of Lumberton, North Carolina, Fayetteville State University, and practice squads with both the Atlanta Falcons and Dolphins before making the 53-man roster with Miami in 2023.

No stranger to hard work and adversity from his college days, Smith found a way to navigate a lost season during the COVID-19 pandemic and continued to train for the chance to go pro. It materialized with a free-agent contract signing with the Falcons in 2021 and a two-year stretch at the practice squad level before his shot at the main roster in Miami.

“I had a lot of guys in my corner that stayed on me with my workouts,” Kion Smith recalled. “I tried to keep a consistent mindset that an opportunity would open up to play, maybe not right away but at some point. It was tough but I just kept faith. I was here at FSU grinding for so long, so I just kept going with it.”

During the busy week-to-week of the NFL slate the former Fayetteville State big man returned to campus recently during the Dolphins week 10 bye, a place he called home from 2016 through 2019 while anchoring the Broncos during three straight CIAA championship appearances.

“Kion started this thing off for us,” said Broncos Head Coach Richard Hayes. “He was one of the first major signings we had in 2016. He committed to the program and became a great player.”

Looking back, Kion Smith credits the coaching during his freshman season as the key to his long-term success.

“When I first got here it was Coach Hayes’ first year, so he came in with a chip on his shoulder being a first-year guy,” Smith said. I feel like he really got us ready because he had something to prove. He came in and we were all working hard day in and day out and I think that first year really motivated me to be who I really wanted to be coming out of college.”

During the 2023 summer, the Fayetteville State coaching staff worked directly with Smith to create a youth Big Man Camp, targeting high school football players looking to develop skills on the offensive and defensive lines.

“All of the coaches at FSU were a big help in starting the camp. They were around to help run drills and I greatly appreciate them.” Smith said. “I want to see players get better from where I’m from and see the football talent around the area improve as a whole.”

Smith’s work with players in his local area is an extension of the efforts he and his Dolphins teammates have engaged in off the field in the South Florida community. As a rookie, he teamed up with Neighbors4Neighbors to provide families with holiday gifts and also volunteered at the Miami Dolphins Food Relief Program distributing Thanksgiving meals to the community.

“It’s something that I didn’t experience as a kid, shopping with an NFL player and stuff like that. It’s cool to see the smiles on kids’ faces and help them out,” Smith said.

It wasn’t a perfectly paved road for Smith on his way towards an NFL dream, but his toughness on and off the field serves as a great example for young football players and future Broncos to follow.

“Just buy in wherever you are. Whether it’s with coaches, on the field, off the field, or in the weight room. You never really know where you are going to be but if you put the work in you are going to be better than you were the day before.”

The post Former HBCU teammates to faceoff in NFL Wildcard Playoff appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Duckett compiled an impressive 156-98 overall record across nine seasons at Fayetteville State (1993-98), Winston-Salem State (1998-01) and Grambling State (2008-09). He posted a 73-19 mark at Winston-Salem State, earning NCAA Division II South Athletic Coach of the Year honors in 1999 and the CIAA Tournament Coaches Award in 1999 and 2000. 

After his third season he left WSSU to join Dave Odom’s staff at South Carolina in 2001 and remained with the Gamecocks through 2008. South Carolina advanced to the National Invitation Tournament (NIT) three times in that span, highlighted by back-to-back titles in 2005 and 2006.

Rick Duckett went to serve as an assistant at Miami (OH) and Charleston Southern over the final decade of his career. He was among the candidates for the WSSU job in 2018 that ultimately went to Cleo Hill Jr.

The post Rick Duckett, former CIAA championship coach, passes away appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Jackson State leads the SWAC with nearly 30k. That’s an impressive number, but it is a significant drop from its 2022 number. Norfolk State got a slight bump as it led the MEAC. North Carolina A&T got another sellout it’s first season in the CAA.

Here are the numbers of attendance at each HBCU homecoming game. All numbers were taken from official box scores from each school’s athletic website.

MEAC

Norfolk State-24,976

South Carolina State-22,269

North Carolina Central-13,626

Howard-7,684

Delaware State-6,300

Morgan State-Canceled

SWAC

Jackson State-30,947

Alabama A&M-26,391

Florida A&M-22,338

Southern-21,492

Alcorn State-21,012

Alabama State-17,995

Prairie View A&M-14,224

Arkansas-Pine Bluff-13,469

Bethune-Cookman-9,458

Mississippi Valley State-8,752

Grambling State-8,657

Texas Southern-6,352

CAA

North Carolina A&T-21,500

Hampton-13,811

CIAA

Winston-Salem State-8,200

Virginia Union-5,250

Shaw-5,022

Livingstone – 4,501

Bowie State-4,395

St. Augustine’s-3,719

Fayetteville State-3,680

Elizabeth City State-3,579

Johnson C. Smith-3,452

Virginia State-3,409

Lincoln (PA)-2,117

Bluefield State-N/A

SIAC

Tuskegee-31,726

Clark Atlanta-19,597

Savannah State-12,723

Fort Valley State-12,113

Morehouse-10,213

Benedict-8,589

Albany State-8,371

Kentucky State-2,898

Edward Waters-2,472

Lane-1,753

Allen-905

Central State-N/A

Miles-N/A

Other

Tennessee State-13,975

West Virginia State-3,954

Lincoln (MO)-3,333

Virginia University-Lynchburg-1,753

Florida Memorial-1,200

Langston-N/A

The post HBCU Homecoming 2023 Attendance Tracker appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Broncos improved to 7-2 on the year and 7-0 in Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association play, while the Bears fell to 2-7 and 2-5.

Owens Jr. led Fayetteville State’s passing attack with 280 yards through the air, tossing one touchdown and two interceptions.

Owens Jr. totaled 34 yards to lead the Broncos ground attack in the game, picking up 11.3 yards per carry along the way. Derrick Alston Jr. also tacked on 33 yards and one touchdown on the ground.

Nigel Fitzgerald reeled in four catches for 91 yards and one score. When asked about the game-winning play, Nigel responded, “I wouldn’t say the play was for me, it was a shot play and thank God Joe found me. I could make the play for the team so we’re going to the next game with a victory.” Coach Hayes was proud of the way his team found a way to push through, “Joe made a great pass to Nigel. Nigel made a big play. Touchdown Broncos! We are going to Salem for the sixth consecutive year.”

Marquan Williams got in on the action in the passing game as well, hauling in four balls for 69 yards. The Broncos also got 61 yards receiving from Julian Milligan in the contest.

Kolby Merritt showed out for the Fayetteville State defense, totaling 10 tackles, 2.0 TFL, and two sacks. Anthony Binyard added four tackles, 1.0 TFL, and one sack, and Elijah Casey had six tackles, 1.0 TFL, and one sack in the win.

Fayetteville State’s defense held up against Shaw’s offense, giving up 299 total yards. The Broncos’ defense lived in Shaw’s backfield all game, piling up six sacks and 10 total tackles for loss.

How It Happened

Fayetteville State got on the scoreboard first with 6:41 left in the first quarter to take a 7-0 lead. Another Broncos score then extended the lead to 14-0.

After Shaw tied the game at 14-14, Fayetteville State scored again with 20 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter with a 60-yard touchdown reception from Joe Owens, Jr. to Nigel Fitzgerald to jump back ahead 21-14. Both teams played the rest of the game without scoring.

Game Notes

» Fayetteville State out-gained Shaw 410-299, including a 280-157 advantage through the air.
» The Broncos scored first with 6:41 left in the first quarter and never trailed the rest of the game on their way to victory.
» Fayetteville State had their highest scoring quarter in the fourth period when they put up seven points.
» Fayetteville State converted 3 of 8 third downs while Shaw was successful on 6 of 14.
» The Broncos had two players with more than eight tackles in the ballgame led by Merritt, who had 10.
» The Broncos racked up 10 tackles for loss and added six sacks.
» Fayetteville State got off to a great start in the contest, putting 14 unanswered points on the board before Shaw could respond.
» Jr. Owens completed 71.9% of his passes on the day, going 23-for-32 while averaging 8.8 yards per attempt.
» Navian Hillard led the Bears passing attack, completing five of his 12 attempts for 74 yards and one touchdown.
» Sidney Gibbs led the Shaw rushing attack with 72 yards.

The Broncos will host Winston-Salem State on Saturday, November 4 at 2 p.m. for senior night.

The post Fayetteville State outlasts Shaw, headed back to CIAA title game appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Fayetteville State and Miles College will step into homecoming against tough opponents who look to ruin the fun and can make or break their chances at a spot in the CIAA and SIAC championships.

Fayetteville State is at the top of the CIAA Southern Division with an overall record of 5-2 and conference record of 5-0. Johnson C. Smith is right behind Fayetteville State with an overall record of 5-2 and a conference record of 4-1. Both Fayetteville State and Johnson C. Smith are the toughest opponent on both team’s schedules. Saturday’s matchup could go a long way towards determining the eventual winner of the CIAA Southern Division. The Southern Division Champion will meet the Northern Division Champion in Salem, Virginia for the CIAA championship game.

Miles College comes into the it’s HBCUhomecoming weekend ranked fifth in SIAC, but they not completely out of the race to reach the SIAC Championship game. The four teams ahead of Miles College are Benedict College who is undefeated and Fort Valley State, Allen University and Tuskegee University. Fort Valley State is currently 5-2 overall and 5-1 in conference play. Allen is currently 5-1 overall and 5-2 in conference. Tuskegee and Miles are both currently 5-2 overall and 4-1 in conference.

Miles will play Tuskegee two weeks later. In the new SIAC format without east and west divisions, the top two teams will play in the conference championship. If Miles College wins its homecoming game and and their final two games of the season, they will have a shot to play in the championship if Fort Valley loses one of its final conference games.

Here is the full list of HBCU homecoming games for the week of Oct. 21.

HBCU Homecoming: Oct 21

ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF vs. Alcorn State

BENEDICT vs. Kentucky State

CLARK ATLANTA vs. Central State

DELAWARE STATE vs. South Carolina State

FAYETTEVILLE STATE vs. Johnson C. Smith

FLORIDA MEMORIAL vs. Webber International

FORT VALLEY STATE vs. Morehouse

HOWARD vs. Norfolk State

LANE vs. Virginia-Lynchburg

LANGSTON vs. Arkansas-Baptist

LIVINGSTONE vs. Shaw

MILES vs. Allen

SAVANNAH STATE vs. Tuskegee

VIRGINIA UNION vs. Lincoln (Pa.)

WINSTON-SALEM STATE vs. Saint Augustine’s

The post HBCU Homecoming: Oct. 21 big for Fayetteville State, Miles appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The 2023-24 women’s preseason team features five returning players from the 2022-23 All-CIAA squad and the 2022-23 men’s preseason team features three returners from last year’s all-conference team.

The reigning Women’s CIAA Player of the Year Amaya Tucker of Winston-Salem State and the reining Women’s Defensive Player of the Year Anyssa Fields of Lincoln (PA) headline the conference’s preseason team. Tucker ranked third in conference scoring during the 2022-2023 season, averaging 15.3 points per game, Fields ranked 4th overall in conference rebounds per game (7.9) and 15th overall in steals (1.7).

Bowie State led all vote getters with three, followed by Elizabeth City State, Virginia Union and Winston-Salem State with two and Lincoln (PA), Saint Augustine’s and Fayetteville State each had one selection on the women’s team and seven schools in total were represented among the preseason honorees.

On the men’s side, Fayetteville State’s Tyler Foster and the reining CIAA Rookie of the Year Ezekiel Cannedy of Johnson C. Smith highlight the Men’s 2023-2024 Preseason Team. Foster was an All-CIAA Team selection last season and was also a member of the conference’s All-Rookie Team. Tyler was the league’s 6th leading scorer during the 2022-2023 season, averaging 13.8 points per game while Cannedy was 5th overall in scoring with a 15.1 points per game average. Livingstone’s Kyree Temple is the only other returning player from the 2022-2023 season to be named to this season’s Preseason Team.

Winston-Salem State, Elizabeth City State and Shaw had two selections each. Nine schools are represented among the men’s preseason honorees.

Fayetteville State men and Elizabeth City women were chosen by league coaches to finish first in the conference overall and first in their respective Southern and Northern Divisions.

Last season, the Lady Vikings of Elizabeth City State won their first-ever CIAA Basketball title. Led by first-year Head Basketball Coach, Tynesha Lewis, Elizabeth City State defeated Saint Augustine’s, Bowie State and Johnson C, Smith in the 2023 CIAA Basketball Tournament before downing Shaw, 55-40, in the championship game. The Lady Vikings finished the regular season third in the North with an overall record of 20-11 and were 9-7 in CIAA action.

Winston-Salem State Head Coach Cleo Hill led the Rams to their second CIAA crown under his leadership. The Rams finished the 2022-2023 season with a 21-9 overall record and 9-7 mark in league play. WSSU claimed three wins in the opening, quarterfinal and semifinal rounds, defeating Saint Augustine’s (65-49), Claflin (60-52) and Virginia Union (45-44) before knocking off Lincoln (PA) in the CIAA Championship game by a score of 62-57.

2023-24 All-CIAA Women’s Basketball Preseason Team

Backcourt
Amaya Tucker, Winston-Salem State*
Anyilah Bryant, Fayetteville State
NyAsia Blango, Elizabeth City State
Anii Harris, Bowie State
Kennedi Simmons, Winston-Salem State

Frontcourt
Anyssa Fields, Lincoln (Pa.) *+
Ny Langley, Virginia Union *
Lauren Banks, St. Augustine’s *
Katerra Myers, Bowie State
Jessica Adams, Elizabeth City State
Saniha Jackson, Bowie State
Zoila Martinez, Virginia Union

* – Returning 2022-23 All-CIAA Selection 
+ – Returning 2022-23 Women’s Defensive Player of the Year  

2022-23 CIAA Women’s Basketball Predicted Order of Finish

Northern Division

Southern Division

2023-24 All-CIAA Men’s Basketball Preseason Team

Backcourt
Ezekiel Cannedy, Johnson C. Smith
DJ Thomas, Shaw
Jaquantae Harris, Elizabeth City State
Isaac Parson, Winston-Salem State
Reggie Hudson, Lincoln (Pa.)

Frontcourt
Tyler Foster, Fayetteville State *
Khyree Temple, Livingstone *
Nemo Johnson, St. Augustine’s
Jaylen Alston, Winston-Salem State
Tre Richardson, Elizabeth City State
Shayne Saigo, Shaw
Tahj Harding, Virginia Union

* – Returning 2022-23 All-CIAA Selection 

2023-24 CIAA Men’s Basketball Predicted Order of Finish

Northern Division

Southern Division

The post CIAA Basketball: ECSU women, Fayetteville State men 2024 favorites appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Part of what got FSU to the title game was a two-quarterback system of freshmen Demari Daniels and Caden Davis. The Broncos made the switch during the stretch run to keep defenses off-balance, and it paid off in a major way. Both young men are back with the knowledge that they will likely be splitting time again.

“Playing basketball, playing football, playing different sports my whole life being around a team – I’ve got a real good team mindset,” Davis said. “So whatever we do, we’re going to do for the team to win. Playing both of us. Playing one of us. Whatever it is. Playing neither of us –  I’m with it.”

Fayetteville State University thought the title game would be its storybook ending to the 2022 season, but fate had something else in mind. FSU secured a spot in the playoffs following the win. There are no automatic bids for conference winners in Division II football, but FSU was chosen for a playoff spot where it matched up against Delta State from Mississippi. The CIAA champs were blanked 51-0. 

Hayes considers the experience a lesson learned. 

“We can’t celebrate the CIAA championship for so long,” Hayes said of what he learned from last season’s playoff game. “Last year we kind of won the championship and didn’t really know if we were going to get into the playoffs. We didn’t have a watch party. We didn’t even get together that Sunday because we didn’t believe we were going to get in. And then one of the guys called me, said, ‘Coach, we made it – so let’s end the celebration and get ready for Delta State.”

Davis was honest about what happened while maintaining optimism about the future. 

“We got knocked in the head a little bit,” he said. “We had a lot of younger guys never been to the playoffs. And I feel like this year if we come back and we get an opportunity again – we’ll be ready.”

“We know what it feels like now to go up against some of the top competition in the country and so we have to get better in that aspect,” Hayes added. “We’ll be prepared this year.”

Part of that preparation includes playing solid competition in Fayetteville State’s two non-conference games. 

“We’re going to open the season off Thursday night on the 31st (of August) at UNC-Pembroke,” Hayes said. “And then we’re going to welcome a perennial playoff team in Lenoir-Rhyne to Fayetteville. So those first two games are really going to tell us who we are and what kind of adjustments we need to make going into CIAA play.”

And once the Broncos get into conference play, they will have a bigger target on their backs than ever. Graduate linebacker Gerald Simpson says the team is fine being the hunted in the league this year. 

“We want all the smoke,” he said. “We’re not ducking the smoke and we know people are coming for us.”

The post Fayetteville State University embracing being the CIAA’s hunted appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“It might be a little camp for us, but they’re out there playing like it’s the Super Bowl,” Williams told Chris Clark of WNCN CBS 17. “They are out there throwing balls and trying to come down with it. They’re playing with some real passion and I’m just glad to see they are having that much fun at a camp that I was apart of. It feels real good.”

A year-and-a-half after his last game on that specific turf, Williams was back with a bright, shiny Super Bowl ring.

“It’s a manifestation of all the work you put in through the year,” Williams said, speaking of the ring. “Training camp. Preseason. Regular season. All the way into the playoffs. All the way into the AFC Championship Game and then the Super Bowl.”

He earned that ring as a part-time starter who picked up 27 tackles and one interception in the regular season. He picked off another pass in the AFC Championship Game and helped the Kansas City Chiefs bring home the title against the Philadelphia Eagles a few weeks later. 

“It was just breathtaking. I couldn’t even speak. Of course it looks good – but it just feels good to get that. It is ‘blingy’ but it has some real sentimental value.”

Williams said it is hard to put into words what getting a Super Bowl win as a rookie has been like. 

“There are so many firsts that happened this year: I make it to the NFL. I’m playing for a great organization,” Williams said. “Make it to the playoffs my first year. Make it to the AFC Championship. Make it to the Super Bowl – then win. There was just so much to digest from it.”

The post Kansas City Chiefs rookie Joshua Williams returns to HBCU with a ring appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Thank you to Fayetteville State University. I have made memories and friends that I will cherish for the rest of time. With that being said, I have chosen to enter the transfer portal for my final year of eligibility elsewhere,” he wrote.

“This was not an easy choice. As I will dearly miss the family I have found here. Fayetteville State will always be my home, my alma mater.”

Cowan is a Fayetteville native that started his career at nearby UNC-Pembroke, another Division II program. He transferred to Fayetteville State prior to the 2021 season, recording 29 solo tackles on the season – 10 of them for loss. He also added 3.5 sacks to help FSU get back to the CIAA title game for the fourth consecutive time playing alongside CIAA Defensive Player of The Year in Keyshawn James and in front of future NFL Draft pick Joshua Williams.

The 2022 season was a full coming out party for Cowan. He was a force from the start of the season, racking up 60 tackles – including 15.5 for loss. He also recorded 10.5 sacks, including 1.5 in the CIAA championship game as Fayetteville State took down Chowan for the conference crown.

Having conquered the CIAA, Cowan is getting looks from several FCS teams, including MEAC and Celebration Bowl Champion North Carolina Central and SWAC member Mississippi Valley State. Other programs like Lamar University, Southern Illinois and Eastern Kentucky. 

The post Fayetteville State University star being pursued by MEAC, SWAC programs appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The former Fayetteville State defensive lineman signed with the Toronto Argonauts on May 18. Earlier this year he signed with the Ottawa Redblacks of the CFL. 

Keyshawn James was a decorated standout of the Fayetteville State football program from 2017 through 2021. The 6-3, 280-pound native of Cayce, SC made an immediate impact for FSU during his freshman campaign. After collecting 62 total tackles of which 8.5 were for a loss of 52 yards, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) named James to the 2017 All-Rookie Team. He made All-Conference again in 2019 and 2021. 

For his senior season, Keyshawn led NCAA Division II with 23.5 tackles for a loss and ranks sixth in the nation with 1.05 sacks per game. His 10.5 sacks are tied at the top of the conference. The defensive lineman helped Fayetteville State lead the CIAA in scoring defense at 12 points per game and total defense at 203.1 yards per game during the regular season.

Keyshawn James played with Kansas City Chiefs starting defensive back Joshua Williams, who was a fourth-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. James had a tryout with the New England Patriots before going the CFL path.

The post CFL squad signs Keyshawn James, former HBCU star appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The so-called “Week Zero” game, would have matched 2022 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) champion Benedict against 2022 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) champion Fayetteville State.

The idea was hatched by longtime HBCU sportscaster Charlie Neal. He now does play-by-play for black college games produced by HBCUGo that air nationwide on TheGrio and other national cable outlets. Both TheGrio and HBCUGo are owned by media mogul Byron Allen.

Neal and execs at HBCUgo and TheGrio reportedly convinced SIAC Commissioner Anthony Holloman and CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams to float the concept to the NCAA. The network was hoping the carry the game on Saturday, August 26 of this year on Benedict’s campus in Columbia, S. C.

Why did the NCAA turn the game down?

No Div. II conferences or teams have participated in Week Zero games. It appears that because there was no precedent for Div. II conferences playing Week Zero games, the SIAC/CIAA waiver was turned down by the NCAA.

HBCU Gameday reached out to the NCAA for confirmation and comment but had not heard back before publishing this story.

A source indicated that while the leagues are disappointed the game was unable to take place this year, there is hope for legislative relief. In other words, the game could be on for 2024.

NCAA Week Zero game history

Week Zero games originally referred to the opening weekend of college football games in the NCAA Div. I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). According to the Wikipedia entry on Week 0, “the NCAA has sporadically awarded waivers for games to be played a week earlier (than Week 1, on the Saturday before Labor Day) in order to bring a game to a national television audience.” The first Week 0 game was the 1983 Kickoff Classic. No. 1 Nebraska faced No. 4 Penn State at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N. J.

A waiver was sought by the SIAC and CIAA, representing two of the oldest Div. II conferences in the nation and the oldest of the four HBCU conferences in the NCAA.

Such games, based on their history, have been played between Div. I FBS or FCS programs. The Mid Eastern Athletics Conference (MEAC) and Southwestern Athletics Conference (SWAC), the two HBCU Div. I conferences, received a waiver and played the first MEAC/SWAC Challenge in 2005. That Week Zero game will have its 18th iteration this season.

Week Zero games making an impact and growing

Hero Sports says Week 0 games have become a big appetizer to the upcoming football seasons, focusing on teams that take the field first. The list of such games, its story said, has been growing and gives a quicker start to the season on our TVs.

For the 2023 season, ten Week 0 Div I games are scheduled for Saturday, August 26. Included among them is the match up of South Carolina State of the Mid Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Jackson State of the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) at the 18th MEAC/SWAC Challenge. Those same two teams met in the 2021 season-ending Celebration Bowl in Atlanta.

There were 11 Week 0 games on Saturday, August 27 in 2022.

Sources expect adjustments to be made in 2024 when Week One is scheduled to kick off post-Labor Day on September 8.

More HBCU cooperation in store?

Earlier this year, members of the four HBCU NCAA conferences announced they would be doing more to work together. Sources indicate one of the first attempts to make good on that pledge was trying to add the Div. II game to the early season menu.

The game would have been similar to the MEAC/SWAC Challenge. One distinction between the two showcase games is that the Division II version would feature the two defending champions. The SWAC and MEAC teams are selected years in advance. 

The post NCAA rejects plan for Week Zero D2 HBCU football showcase appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Fayetteville State University closed out the final round of 18 holes with a two-over par 290 to secure the title. The Broncos shot a 295 in the opening round, followed by a 288 on the first day of competition. Student-athletes Caden Hodges, Juan Lopez, Brandon Jones, Shaun Wixson, and Jack McCarthy made up the Bronco squad.

Hodges, a freshman from Dunn, NC, finished with a three-round tournament with a 211 (-5) scorecard. He had a conference season average of 71.625 to claim the Player and Rookie of the Year accolades. Virginia Union finished in second place with a team score of 883 (+19). Livingstone was third at 892 (+28).

The CIAA All-Tournament Team is comprised of golfers who finished in the top five of the championship tournament. Livingstone’s Joel Basakaine finished fifth with a 222 (+6). The Blue Bears’ Emmanuel Jakisa finished tied for third with Fayetteville State’s Juan Lopez. The two-shot two-over par 218. Alkin Barkley of Virginia Union finished second with an even-par 216. Hodges is also a member of the All-Tournament Team as the Low Medalist.

The All-CIAA Team consists of players with the top ten average scores from the CIAA Northern and Southern Division tournaments and the championship results.

Name â€‚                         School â€‚                Average

Juan Ruiz Patino â€‚      Virginia State â€‚         77.375

Ahmad Reedus â€‚         Virginia Union â€‚           77.0

Ronald Otile â€‚              Livingstone â€‚             75.125

Jack McCarthy â€‚         Fayetteville State â€‚      74.5

Chris Baguma â€‚          Livingstone â€‚            74.625

Travon Willis â€‚         Virginia Union â€‚             74.625

Hayden Garcia â€‚        Virginia Union â€‚            74.25

Alkin Barkley â€‚          Virginia Union â€‚            74.0

Juan Lopez â€‚            Fayetteville State â€‚       73.875

Caden Hodges â€‚       Fayetteville State â€‚       71.625

Hodges of Fayetteville State was also named 2023 CIAA Player of the Year, named 2023 CIAA Rookie of the Year. Fayetteville State’s Head Coach John Cole was named 2023 CIAA Coach of the Year after leading the Broncos to four first place finishes in CIAA Southern Division matches during the regular season.

The superlatives were voted on by the CIAA Golf Coaches Association and Sports Information Directors Association.

The 2023 CIAA Men’s Golf Championship results can be found on the 2023 CIAA Golf Championship page. For more information about the CIAA, visit www.theciaa.com and follow the conference on Facebook (The CIAA), Twitter (@CIAAForLife), and Instagram (@CIAASports).

The post Fayetteville State University claims 2023 CIAA golf title appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The post Fayetteville State football 2023 schedule appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Ottawa, Canada — The Canadian Football League (CFL) Ottawa REDBLACKS announced for the upcoming 2023 season the signing of Fayetteville State University’s former defensive end Keyshawn James on Monday, March 20.

Keyshawn James was a decorated standout in the Broncos football program from 2017 through 2021. The 6-3, 280-pound native of Cayce, SC made an immediate impact for FSU during his freshman campaign. After collecting 62 total tackles of which 8.5 were for a loss of 52 yards, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) named James to the 2017 All-Rookie Team. He made All-Conference again in 2019 and 2021. For his senior season, Keyshawn led NCAA Division II with 23.5 tackles for a loss and ranks sixth in the nation with 1.05 sacks per game. His 10.5 sacks are tied at the top of the conference. The defensive lineman helped Fayetteville State lead the CIAA in scoring defense at 12 points per game and total defense at 203.1 yards per game during the regular season.

Keyshawn James helped the Broncos to four CIAA Championship berths. James was named the 2021 CIAA Defensive Player of the Year and the Food Lion CIAA Championship Runner-up MVP (twice).

His scout profile describes him as an absolute disruptor. He has an incredible get-off and seemed to be in the backfield before the offensive line could react. He can play both inside and outside, but no matter where he lines up, chaos is started against an offense.

The REDBLACKS open the season with a preseason game on Friday, May 26. The regular season begins on June 10.

The post Fayetteville State’s Keyshawn James signs with CFL team appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Lincoln (17-14) got stellar play again from its three-guard lineup. Reggie Hudson had 11 points, all-CIAA floor leader Korey Williams had 10 and Bakir Cleveland had 8 to combine for more than half of their total. The trio had for 63 of the Lions’ 76 points in a semifinal win over Virginia State Thursday. But their combined 29 points was enough to hold off FSU (17-13). 

Center Edgar Garrita was also a key contributor to the win over Fayetteville State. He had a team-high 7 points in the first half and tied for the team high with 11 points in the game. 

Lincoln vs. Winston-Salem State for CIAA title

The Lions’ win came after fifth-seed Winston-Salem State knocked off the other 2022 finalist and 2023 top seed Virginia Union 45-44 in the first men’s semifinal Friday. It sets up a Lincoln vs. WSSU men’s championship game Saturday at 1 p.m.

It will be Lincoln’s first trip in its men’s history to the championship game.

Lincoln grinds to the win

Both semifinals were low-scoring, grind-it-out games with the lower seed in each case coming out with the win. 

Lincoln scored the game’s first five points but fell behind 17-7 midway thru the first half. They closed the half on a 16-7 run however to enter the break trailing just 24-23.

The Lions tied the game at 31 on a baseline jumper by Cleveland with 11:11 to play. They took their first second-half lead at 33-31 on a coast-to-coast basket by Hudson midway thru the period. They would relinquish the lead just once down the stretch.

That came at the 7:18 mark when FSU’s Cress Worthy scored on a runner off the glass for a 39-38 FSU lead. Hudson’s layup :30 seconds later gave the Lions a lead they would not give up. FSU cut the lead to one twice over the final minutes, the last time at 46-45 on Tyler Foster’s three-pointer with four minutes left.

It stayed a one possession game for most of the final stretch. FSU trailed 51-49 after two Khalil Ridges free throws with :07 seconds left. They fouled and sent Hudson to the line. He canned the first free throw for a 52-49 lead but missed the second. FSU rebounded and advanced the ball to halfcourt before calling timeout with 4.4 seconds left.

FSU inbounded to Coleman whose 3-point attempt from the right corner clanged off the rim. Lincoln’s Peter Sorber was fouled on the rebound. He sank one of two free throws for the final margin.

FSU had only one player score in double figures, Ridges, who had 12. Coleman had nine and Foster had 7.

The post Lincoln men dethrone champs, earn first title game berth appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Each HBCU resides in the state of North Carolina and the Canes will represent each school with a decal on their helmets. The Carolina Hurricanes are set to hit the hockey rink against Ottawa with a record of 24-4-2 giving them their best run in the league. A victory tonight would extend their winning streak to five.

This isn’t the first time an HBCU found itself around the rink at a Carolina Hurricanes game. North Carolina Central’s head football coach Trei Oliver sounded the siren before the game against the Los Angeles Kings; in honor of beating Jackson State in the 2022 Celebration Bowl for the national HBCU National Championshipt.

The Canes achieved a sixth straight victory that night after coming back from four unanswered goals in overtime. So maybe an HBCU connection will be another good luck charm for one of the best teams in the NHL.

North Carolina A&T (Greensboro)

Bennett College (Greensboro)

Winston Salem-State University (Winston-Salem)

Johnson C. Smith University (Charlotte)

Shaw University (Raleigh)

North Carolina Central (Durham)

Fayetteville State University (Fayetteville)

Saint Augustine’s University (Raleigh)

The post Carolina Hurricanes will bring eight HBCU’s to the hockey rink appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

BALTIMORE, MD —The Fayetteville State men’s basketball team got a 23-point showing from the bench and big buckets down the stretch from Cress Worthy and Kaleb Coleman  on the way to a 58-53 win over the Shaw Bears at CFG Bank Arena Wednesday.

“You trust your players down the stretch, said Head Coach Luke D’Alessio. “I wouldn’t trade Cress for anyone in this conference and Kaleb is a very good shooter and he’s a very good player. I trust the players and put them in position to be successful and I really like our team.”

The Broncos (17-12) had two players score in double figures, led by Coleman, who had 13 points and hit a three-pointer inside the final 30 second to help season the game. Cress Worthy nearly secured a triple-double with 10 points, nine rebounds and nine assists. Khalil Ridges added eight points off of the bench.

“Playing on this big stage in the past really prepared me for this game,” Worthy said post-game. “I told my guys that even if they were nervous going in that I was going to help them out. I just try to be poised and execute the play that coach Luke draws up and believe in myself and my teammates.”

Led by Ridges’ three offensive rebounds, Fayetteville State did a great job crashing the offensive glass, pulling down 15 boards that resulted in 18 second chance points.

Fayetteville State’s defense held Shaw to only 37.8 percent shooting from the field, including 26.3 percent from beyond the arc.

With the win, FSU advances to the semi-final round of the tournament on Friday, and will play the winner of Thursday’s quarterfinal between three-seed Virginia State and six-seed Lincoln University. 

How It Happened

After falling behind 15-10, Fayetteville State went on a 5-0 run with 11:18 left in the first half, culminating in a bucket from Ridges, to tie the game at 15. Shaw then pulled ahead, sending the Broncos into halftime down 24-23.

After intermission, Fayetteville State managed to gain control and had a 37-35 lead before going on a 6-0 run, finished off by Ridges’ three, to grow the lead to 43-35 with 9:49 to go in the contest. The Bears narrowed the margin somewhat before the game was over, but the Broncos still held on for the 58-53 win. Fayetteville State shot well from three-point range in the half, hitting six shots from deep to score 18 of its 35 points.

Game Notes

The Broncos held the Bears to only 37.8 percent shooting from the field.
» The Fayetteville State bench came alive by scoring 23 points to its scoring output.
» Fayetteville State had a 37-30 edge on the boards in the win.
» The Fayetteville State defense forced 14 turnovers.
» Fayetteville State cleaned up on the offensive glass, collecting 15 offensive boards in the game.
» Kaleb Coleman led the Broncos with 13 points.
» Fayetteville State got a team-high nine rebounds from Cress Worthy.

The post Fayetteville State’s bench plays big for quarterfinals victory appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Broncos (15-12, 10-5 CIAA, 6-3 South) had four players score in double figures, led by Tyler Foster, who had 18 points and eight rebounds. Kaleb Coleman tacked on 16 points and two steals and D’Marco Baucum chipped in as well with 11 points.

Allen Hatchett had a 13-point game to lead the Panthers (18-6, 9-6 CIAA, 5-4 South). Bryson Dennis added 12 points and Timothy McElroy contributed ten.

Fayetteville State out-rebounded Claflin 37-23 in Wednesday’s game, paced by nine boards from Khalil Ridges. The Broncos also collected 18 offensive rebounds and scored 21 second chance points.

The Fayetteville State defense was effective at taking away the basketball in Wednesday’s game, forcing 14 Claflin turnovers while committing 10. Those takeaways turned into 21 points on the offensive end of the floor. Cress Worthy’s three steals led the way individually for the Broncos.

After falling behind 12-5, Fayetteville State went on an 8-0 run with 14:54 left in the first half to take a 13-12 lead. The Broncos then surrendered that lead and entered halftime down 36-30.

After intermission, Fayetteville State managed to gain control and had a 62-56 lead before going on a 6-0 run, finished off by Ridges’ layup, to grow the lead to 68-56 with 1:15 to go in the contest. The Panthers narrowed the margin somewhat before the game was over, but the Broncos still cruised the rest of the way for the 71-61 win. Fayetteville State capitalized on seven Claflin turnovers in the period, collecting 13 points off those turnovers.

Fayetteville State heads into Saturday’s matchup with Saint Augustine’s with a chance to wrap up the Division title and secure a bye in the CIAA Tournament, which tips off on Tuesday, Feb. 22. 

The post Fayetteville State beats Claflin, takes control of CIAA South appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Bryan Cook finished his career at the University of Cincinnati, but started out at Howard University. He recorded 93 tackles, five tackles for a loss and five interceptions over two seasons. He eventually transferred and was picked in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He recorded 21 tackles and a sack during the regular season.

Joshua Williams was a fourth round pick in 2022, becoming the highest of four HBCU players drafted into the NFL. He did so after a stellar career at Fayetteville State in which he helped win four-consecutive CIAA Southern Division championships. A part-time starter during the 2022 season, Williams put together 27 tackles and one interception.

The pair hooked up for an interception in the AFC Championship Game that helped propel the franchise to the big game a few weeks back.

It was the second Super Bowl win for the Kansas City Chiefs in the last four years, but obviously the first for Williams and Cook. 

The post Kansas City Chiefs HBCU rookies win Super Bowl 57 appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Aniyah Bryant led the way with 14 points and seven rebounds for the Lady Broncos, who also got 13 points and six rebounds from Alexis Radcliff in the win. 

After getting down 7-0 early, Fayetteville State went on runs of 12-0 and 15-0 to take command of the game by the second quarter.

The Lady Rams shot just 22 percent from the field for the game, turning the ball over 21 times which led to 19 points for their opponents. They were also outrebounded 56 to 32 on the day. Taniya Wilkins led the way with 13 points and nine rebounds while Valencia Carroll added 11 points for the visitors.

FSU improved to 16-6 overall, 12-2 in CIAA play with two games remaining. That conference record is the best in the CIAA.

Fayetteville State men still eyeing CIAA South title, WSSU fading

The Fayetteville State/Winston-Salem State matchup featured two teams fighting for position in a crowded and deep CIAA Southern Division. Fayetteville State came out on top on Saturday with a 63-51 win.

FSU held WSSU to just 16 points on 31.8 percent shooting in the first half.

Marcus Elliot led the way for FSU with 15 points, hitting four of five 3-point attempts. Tyler Foster added 14 points and four steals and Cress Worthy scored 10 points.

Jaylon Gibson led WSSU with 13 points while Issac Parson had 10 points and five assists.

The loss was the second in a row for Winston-Salem State, which fell to 16-7 overall and 8-5 in CIAA play. 

Fayetteville State improved to 14-12 on the season, 9-5 in CIAA. That record sets up a battle for first place in the CIAA South on Feb. 15 when FSU travels to Orangeburg, SC to take on Claflin University. 

The post Fayetteville State gets sweep as CIAA nears climax appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“He’s built for this moment,” Broncos head coach Richard Hayes Jr. told HBCU Gameday. “All he has known while playing at Fayetteville State is playing for championships and now he is playing for the ultimate championship in the game of football on Sunday. So we are just proud.”

“There’s no doubt in my mind that he’s able to handle all the success that come his way and he’s handling in a professional way. So I credit that to the way we prepare our athletes at Fayetteville State for when they go out in the real world that they are a hundred percent prepared to handle whatever comes their way.”

The Kansas City Chiefs selected Fayetteville State University defensive back Joshua Williams with the 135th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Williams became the first HBCU player picked in the draft since 2020 and one of four drafted in 2022.

Joshua Williams earned his first start at cornerback for the Chiefs during their Week Six matchup against the Buffalo Bills and played in 41 percent of the Chiefs’ defensive snaps during the regular season.

The Kansas City Chiefs will face the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII that is full of HBCU storylines and black history.

The post Chiefs’ Joshua Williams prepared for Super Bowl by HBCU appeared first on HBCU Gameday.