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

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

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

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

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

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Let’s be clear: the photo is real. It’s from WSSU’s 1991 basketball team, the same year Stephen A. Smith was featured in the school’s yearbook and listed on the team roster. It’s not AI. It’s not Photoshop. It’s not some conspiracy cooked up in a basement somewhere. The photo has been sitting in WSSU archives for years, apparently mis-labeled as the 1991-1992 season. Below is the full photo.

Whitlock correctly pointed out that Smith would have been done playing at WSSU in 1992 as his journalism career was getting off the ground from the Winston-Salem State News Argus to the Winston-Salem Journal to the Atlanta Journal constitution. He correctly pointed out that Smith cracked his knee early in his WSSU career. His photo was absent from the 1990 WSSU yearbook and made another appearance in 1991 in what would have been his senior season. 

The photo is an honest piece of HBCU history, pulled straight from a university archive. But Whitlock took it as his chance to once again attack Stephen A., suggesting he fabricated his college career and calling into question everything from his memoir to his credibility.

That’s what this really comes down to—Jason Whitlock’s obsession with tearing down Stephen A. Smith. He took the photo and ran with it to broader topics such as Smith’s contract and political aspirations, two things many people would criticize Smith for, but two things he is clearly jealous of. Once upon a time Whitlock was the black journalist-turned-columnist-turned lightning rod that looked to be ESPN’s Golden Boy. But a rejuvenated Smith came back from getting fired from the network and is now a $100 million man while Whitlock’s star at the network crashed and burned brilliantly.

Now he never misses a chance to take a snipe at Smith, using every chance he gets to create a narrative about his rival, with his time on his HBCU basketball squad one of his favorite jabs. His partially-informed, hastily put together response to the photo illustrates just how personal his beef with Smith is. And that likely isn’t going to change despite the fact that the photo in question is very real, if mislabeled. 

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Kyrell Shaw originally committed to Winston-Salem State last winter, but flipped his commitment to Maryland Eastern Shore when his brother transferred there.

After scoring 20 points just once in his first two seasons, Ketron Shaw hit that mark in six of his first seven games at the Division I level, including a 30-point performance against Old Dominion. He scored 20 or more points in half of his 28 appearances in the season while shooting 45 percent from the field and was named third-team All-MEAC after the season. He led the team in scoring, rebounding and assists.

Kyrell Shaw, a 6’4 guard, averaged 6.7 points per game during his freshman campaign. He scored in double figures seven times, including a 31-point performance against Galladuet. 

Also hitting the portal from the HBCU is Jalen Ware. Ware averaged 3.3 points and four rebounds per game for UMES (6-25).

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“I looked up at the clock, it was like 2.5 (seconds left), Coach Moton said ‘go score, go score,” Parson said with a slight grin. “So then, shoot I just know I had to get it up, turn the corner, and go score. I was just looking, waiting to see if it was gonna drop.”

It did — after four bounces. Also dropping to the floor was his coach. LeVelle Moton, looking for his fifth MEAC title in just over a decade, leaned back and hit the floor in the second that seemed like a minute that the ball bounced on the rim of the Scope.

“I trusted this young man over here on my left, to put the ball in his hands. That’s what he do.  And the rest is history.” 

Issac Parson was playing in his first MEAC Tournament game after he spent three seasons playing for Cleo Hill at WSSU, helping the team go 59-25 during that span, including a CIAA title in 2023.

Parson is from Kinston, North Carolina — the hometown of Jerry Stackhouse, among many other NBA players. Moton and Stackhouse have been tight since they were pre-teens. Moton said he’s known about Parson for a while, even though he signed with NCCU’s one-time conference rival. 

“His family and Stack are really cool, so we always known about him,” Moton said. “We followed him at Winston. And now with this portal — it was just kind of a match made in heaven.”

Issac Parson was a decorated player in the Division II HBCU league, winning all-rookie honors as well as an all-CIAA nod last season. He has started just two games this season after starting 66 of his 77 games at WSSU. But he’s usually on the floor when the game ends, and if NCCU is to win the title, he’ll likely be a key part.   

“He’s played there for four years, so now he had to adjust to how we do things here. And it’s been a difficult transition for him as it would with anymore. But he’s continued to buy in. Sometimes he’s got frustrated, but, hopefully he can feel confident now. Because he is the one guy on our team with a championship pedigree. And so that’s why he makes significant plays.

Moton said the free throws Parson hit down the stretch were just as significant. He went 4-for-4 from the free thrown line before hitting the game-winner. Free throws might win ball-games, but they don’t make Sportscenter.

“Those things get lost in the end of the battle because everybody loves the sexy stuff, like a last-second shot,” Moton said.

Last second shots are kind of Parson’s thing, though.  He showed the willingness to take and make a last-second shot from his first season on when he hit two buzzer beaters against Virginia State and Elizabeth City State. And he continued to do so during his last two seasons there. And he did it twice during the regular season in wins against Garner-Webb and — you guessed it — Delaware State. But none of those were as big as the one he hit on Thursday night — the one that was slotted no. 5 on Sportscenter. 

The name of the game is “survive and advance.” NCCU will have to win three games in three days to bring the first MEAC title back to Durham since 2019. Issac Parson has the experience as part of a team that won four games in four days to do it at his last HBCU. Why would he think he couldn’t do it again? 

“Been there before,” Parson said matter-of-factly. “Just gotta stay solid and move on to the next game and just stay prepared to go.” 

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This agreement solidifies Smith’s status as one of the highest-paid personalities in sports media, a testament to his longevity, influence, and ability to command viewership. His brash and unapologetic style has made him a polarizing yet undeniable force in the industry. The new contract also grants him the flexibility to discuss more political and cultural issues—something Smith has already embraced in recent years.

Beyond his media success, Smith’s journey is a story of perseverance and dedication, deeply rooted in his HBCU experience. A proud graduate of Winston-Salem State University, Smith played basketball under legendary coach Clarence “Big House” Gaines before transitioning into journalism. His career began with newspapers, most notably The Philadelphia Inquirer, before he made the jump to television. Over the years, he has become a dominant figure at ESPN, shaping the sports debate landscape with his insights and fiery takes.

For HBCU graduates and supporters, Smith’s ascent is a shining example of the talent and excellence that emerge from historically Black colleges and universities. Smith has actively involved himself in raising money not just for WSSU, but many other HBCUs, as a part of his work with HBCU Week.

With his future at ESPN secure, the question now is: What’s next for Stephen A. Smith? One thing is certain—he’ll be louder than ever.

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Paul informed the sophomore guard that he was named a Walmart Hometown Hero, and has earned an invite to the NBA All-Star Game. 

“Your leadership as a mentor and your ability to guide others is why you are named HBCU Hometown Hero,” Chris Paul told Thompson. 

“To be named a Walmart HBCU Hometown Hero is a blessing because being around PWI to being able to become the face of my community and the history that comes along with it and being the face of is a big blessing,” Thompson said. 

Thompson is one of several HBCU players who have won the distinction this season.

Thompson is a sophomore point guard from Concord, NC, and went to Central Cabarrus High School where he had a career record of 81-13, won the 2023 3A State Championship, and was voted the 2023 3A Tournament Most Outstanding Player. Thompson was a 2x SPC Conference Player of the Year for 2022 and 2023 and was the runner-up in 2021.

He started his career at Charleston Southern University where he was named to the Big Sky South All-Freshman Team during the 2023-2024 season. 

Thompson transferred to WSSU in the fall of 2024. 

“Transferring to an HBCU was a big thing for me because I was always at a PWI,” he said.

Attending an HBCU has helped Thompson to embrace Black excellence.

“Coming to an HBCU filled with my people, my culture, learning from my teachers, and coaches,” Thompson said. “Being around a lot of people, and my culture has made me feel more comfortable with myself, brought me out of my shell and I have been able to learn more about myself.”

Thompson says coming to an HBCU has given him a strong sense of community.

“When I got here everybody was so loving and caring and it felt like home,” Thompson said.

WSSU has struggled on the court, going just 2-20 so far this season. But Thompson has been one of the bright spots on the team with his leadership. 

Thompson continues to strive to help others while building resilience along the way.

“I plan to inspire others by proving everybody wrong when everybody says you can’t do something and you do it that’s my main goal.”

Not only has his transfer to the HBCU given him a new view, it’s also earned him a call with a Hall of Famer in Chris Paul.

– Story by WSSU Student/HBCU Intern Tia Greene

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The game is nationally televised, bringing well-deserved attention to HBCU athletics while educating fans on the impact of the Airmen.

Beyond the field, the Red Tails Classic fosters school pride, community engagement, and historical awareness. Events surrounding the game highlight the Tuskegee Airmen’s contributions, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire.

WSSU and Tuskegee first met in the Pioneer Bowl in 1999 and 2000 in the Georgia Dome, with the CIAA squad taking the first game and the SIAC squad taking the other. The two programs met in the 2013 Cleveland Classic, and most recently played each other at Tuskegee back in 2019. Tuskegee, the all-time winningest program in HBCU history, has 29 SIAC titles.WSSU has 12 CIAA titles, tied for second most among all CIAA schools behind Morgan State.

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“We have recruits to address our needs and help us continue to Protect the Legacy,” Massey said.  

Transfers Bring Experience to the Rams

The 10-player transfer group includes key additions across multiple positions, highlighted by wide receiver Devontay Deloatch from Livingstone College. Deloatch brings valuable CIAA experience to the Rams’ receiving corps after recording eight receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown in 2024 against them last season. In 2023, he tallied 11 catches for 110 yards at Bowman Gray, proving himself as a reliable playmaker as the HBCU recorded its first win in WSSU’s stadium in decades. His familiarity with the conference and ability to stretch the field should make him an immediate contributor.  

Alongside Deloatch, the Rams add Brethan Barnhill (RB, Catawba), JaQuan Kelly (RB, UNC-Pembroke), and Khalil Stimpson (LB, Catawba) to bolster key position groups. Offensive line depth improves with the arrival of Zayvion Davis (ECSU), while defensive line additions CJ Brown (Catawba), Landon Venable (Charleston), and Kyle Williams (Delaware State) add much-needed size and physicality in the trenches.  

Incoming Freshmen Bring Depth and Talent

The Rams’ high school signees feature a strong group of offensive linemen, with four new additions, including Delsin Barrett (6’4, 280, Terry Sanford HS) and Carlos Ortega (6’4, 300, Chapel Hill HS). These young linemen will provide future stability up front.  

On defense, Zymiere Dempsey (DB, Bertie HS) and Kam Langford (DB, Emerald HS) bring length and athleticism to the secondary, while Davian Lapointe (DL, South View HS) is a powerful force up front.  

The Rams also addressed special teams by signing punter Fletcher Gallimore (Mt. Airy HS) and kicker Angel Gomez Corona (Millbrook HS).  

With a balanced mix of seasoned transfers and talented high school prospects added to a 7-3 program, WSSU is positoning itself for the 2025 season. The addition of Deloatch and other key playmakers signals that the Rams are gearing up for a strong campaign in HBCU football.

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The event featured a pre-race performance by WSSU’s renowned Red Sea of Sound Marching Band, electrifying the sold-out crowd before the green flag dropped. NASCAR has increasingly embraced HBCU culture, and this collaboration further highlighted the connection between the sport and historically Black colleges and universities.  

Pole winner Chase Elliott delivered a masterful performance, leading 171 of the 200 laps to secure his first Cook Out Clash victory. As Elliott maneuvered through lapped traffic in the final stretch, Ryan Blaney mounted a charge but ultimately fell short, finishing second. The night was filled with excitement, not only on the track but in the stands, including the performance of the WSSU Red Sea of Sound.

“This environment is special,” Elliott said post-race. “This is a place that has a deep history in NASCAR. I think they deserve this event, truthfully.”

Blaney, who started last, made a remarkable run to the front but couldn’t match Elliott’s late-race speed. Meanwhile, Bubba Wallace, the sport’s most prominent Black driver, put on a show, charging from 14th to finish fifth in front of a crowd that embraced NASCAR’s continued outreach to HBCUs.  NASCAR Craftsman Driver Rajah Caruth, who graduated from the HBCU in December, was among those in attendance. 

With NASCAR and WSSU deepening their relationship, this season-opening event symbolized the sport’s ongoing efforts to engage with HBCU culture, ensuring that the legacy of racing at Bowman Gray Stadium continues for generations to come.

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While Woodbury was a star quarterback at WSSU, he spent his NFL career as a special teams ace with the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets and New Orleans Saints.

Woodbury transitioned to coaching when his NFL career was over, starting in HBCU football at Delaware State as a running backs coach and spending three seasons as offensive coordinator at Johnson C. Smith.

He then joined the NFL as a scout with the Los Angeles Rams before getting back in as an assistant special teams coach. Woodbury would help the Rams win Super Bowl (LVI) before returning to college at Morgan State in 2022 and then a two-year stint back in the pros.

Now he joins an inaugural staff for Michael Vick that already includes several former pros, and leaves Howard looking for a special teams coordinator and tight ends coach. 

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WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) head women’s basketball coach L’Tona Lamonte has announced she will be retiring at the end of the 2024-25 season.

Lamonte has been with the Rams for eight seasons after being named the program’s 11th head coach.

“As we celebrate the career of coach L’Tona Lamonte, we honor not only her contributions to Winston-Salem State University we honor her unwavering dedication to our student-athletes and her legacy as a proud daughter of Winston-Salem and a dedicated Ram,” said Director of Athletics, Etienne Thomas. “From her days as a student-athlete to her tenure as head coach, she has embodied the values of our program—excellence, resilience, and a deep commitment to our student-athletes. Coach Lamonte’s impact on WSSU women’s basketball and the broader community will be felt for generations. Coach Lamonte’s commitment to excellence, has left an indelible mark on our program and the lives of countless Rams. Her leadership will inspire generations to come. We wish her all the best in this well-earned retirement from coaching basketball and thank her for everything she has done for WSSU Athletics thus far and our community.”

Under Lamonte’s leadership, the Lady Rams have gone 98-113 and have seen much success on the court, in the classroom, and in the community. She coached WSSU’s only Female Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Female Athlete of the Year, Amaya Tucker, who was also the CIAA Rookie of the Year and has had two 1,000-point scorers (Melody Prichard and Amaya Tucker). She coached 8 All-Conference Players, 1 All-Region, 4 All-Freshman, and 3 Academic All-District players.

In the classroom, Lamonte has a 90% graduation rate. She also spearheaded Education Day for WSSU Athletics starting a reading program with three local schools in the Winston-Salem Forsyth County School District to help with the reading curriculum. The children had to read so many pages during the Christmas holiday and the prize was attending a WSSU basketball game.

Lamonte has served as the Vice President for the CIAA Women’s Basketball Association, served on the Regional Advisory Committee (RAC), was a two-time NCAA Regional Representative, was a Top-25 voter, participated in NCAA Diversity discussions and spoke on two NCAA panels.

“I’m really thrilled and excited for the opportunity I had to come back to my alma mater and the city that I grew up in,” said Lamonte. “I’ve learned and grown and met some amazing people and have been around so many amazing people that have helped to guide my footsteps into my next direction which is administration.” “I’ll never forget the memories that I have or the players that have come in and brought into the system. We may not have won the award just yet, but there is still time for us to do some amazing things this season”. 

We will begin a national search following the conclusion of the season.

For more information on women’s basketball visit our website at www.wssurams.com and follow all social media channels on X(formerly known as Twitter at wssuwhoops, on Instagram at wssuwhoops and on Facebook at Wssu Whoops.

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The money is thanks to a provision in the North Carolina General Assembly. The UNC system estimates that university athletic departments will receive at least $2 million this year. WUNC reached out to the 13 universities receiving money to find out how it was being used and six schools answered the inquiry, including a pair of HBCUs.

North Carolina A&T —  the state and nation’s largest HBCU — has a budget that ranges for $15 to $17 million. 

“Within the last few years, we have allocated funds toward extra trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, nutritionists, and mental health experts to work with our student-athletes,” NC A&T AD Earl Hilton said in the statement. “In the future, we hope to add personnel to enhance our productivity and improve the student-athlete experience.”

Similar use of the sports betting money is being made down the road at Winston-Salem State as it is adding improvements to its basketball venue and locker rooms as well as tennis courts and its fueling station. 

“Being able to spend the resources to upgrade facilities and give (athletes) those opportunities for improved facilities — those that they see across town or those that they see at other campuses — is really important,” Thomas said. “You want to have the best facilities you can have, and not just those that you patchwork together.”

As a Division II school, WSSU has a much more modest budget of about $3.5 million. Even at the smaller level, it has a ways to go to become competitive financially on a national scale.

“To be a powerhouse in Division II — not just in the state, not just in our conference — you’re looking at about a $7 million budget,” Thomas said. “So, you’re talking about $3 million, $3.5 million annually in sports betting.”

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Reggie Hudson, last season’s CIAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player, delivered a standout performance, leading all scorers with 20 points while adding eight rebounds and three assists. His ability to take control in key moments was complemented by Peter Sorber’s double-double of 12 points and 10 rebounds. Bakir Cleveland contributed 12 points, rounding out a balanced attack for Lincoln. Together, they demonstrated the same chemistry that powered last season’s run in the oldest HBCU conference. They also exacted some revenge on a Winston-Salem State program that beat them in the 2023 CIAA title game.

Winston-Salem State, 3-9 on the season, is in its first year under rookie head coach Corey Thompson. Unlike Lincoln, WSSU has just one player from that 2023 championship team.

Despite the loss, rebuilding Winston-Salem State showed promise, with standout efforts from Masaun Moore-Bryant and Micah Jones, who each scored 11 points. Abou Camara dominated the boards with 14 rebounds, but WSSU struggled from the free-throw line, converting just 50 percent of its attempts. The inability to capitalize on opportunities ultimately allowed Lincoln to pull away late in the game, as did 10 second half turnovers.

The win solidifies Lincoln as a top contender in HBCU basketball and highlights Julius Hodge’s impact on the program in his first year. With his guidance and the leadership of veteran players, Lincoln looks poised to defend its CIAA title when the tournament tips off in late February. 

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A year ago he was playing for Cleo Hill Jr. and with KC Shaw at Winston-Salem State, hoping to defend its CIAA title. Saturday Parson faced off against Shaw and Hill with all three wearing maroon instead of red as Maryland-Eastern Shore came down to Durham to face Parson and his new squad. 

The competition between the two teammates was definitely real on the court. Shaw swatted away a would-be layup by his former point guard, and Parson later took on the challenge of guarding a much-taller Shaw. Both players’ families made the trip to the sparingly attended game on a cold, icy weekend. 

Ultimately, though, the night belonged to Parson and NCCU. The home team raced off to a dominant start and finished with an 88-66 win for its MEAC victory of the season. Parson had one of his more complete games of the season, scoring 13 points while registering five assists (and just two turnovers) and two steals as he got the better of his former teammate and head coach. 

“I thought it was going to be more of a competition. But we’ll see them next time,” said Parson, who played three years under Hill and two with Shaw. “It was good seeing KC — KC’s been doing. I hope he stays healthy, keep doing good. It was fun, definitely.”

Shaw scored 15 points, tying for the team with his brother Kyrell Shaw. A year ago, that would have been a promising game for the 6’5 guard as a sophomore at WSSU. Shaw saw his average jump from under five points as a freshman to just under 11 a game last year. But after following Hill to the Division I HBCU in June, Shaw went from the third option to no. 1, and he came into the game averaging a MEAC-high 18 points. However, through the first 20 minutes of the game, Shaw was held without a bucket. 

North Carolina Central coach LeVelle Moton made it clear that limiting Shaw was a key part of his team’s plan coming into the game.

“He’s a really good player,” Moton said. “We had to take it personally.”

Head to Page Two to read about Parson’s development at NCCU.

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“Woke up in tears because I can’t believe this is real!” Hopson wrote on her Facebook page following the announcement. “So honored to have been selected as the Topcats 2025 Pro Bowl Cheerleader.”

The fact that Hopson is even back on the sidelines is amazing itself.

After spending her time at WSSU on the Powerhouse Cheer squad in the early 2010s, she tried out for the Carolina Panthers’ squad in 2015 but didn’t make it. She continued to work towards her goal, and in 2021 earned a spot on the TopCats team, balancing work and family with the demands of being on the squad. 

This January, Hopson and her husband welcomed a son into the world prematurely. Both mother and baby recovered, and Hopson got back in the gym as the cheer and dance squad for the Carolina Panthers prepared for tryouts this spring. When the dust cleared, not only did she earn a spot on the squad again — she was named a captain.

This fall, Hopson’s worlds collided as the TopCats paid a visit to her HBCU, showing up to Bowman Gray Stadium to perform at halftime of the WSSU-Shaw game. 

“It was a full-circle moment,” Hopson told HBCU Gameday after the performance. “Just happy to have both my families at my home — Winston-Salem State University — it’s’ the best feeling ever.”

Last week, Hopson got the chance to do it again — this time in Bank of America Stadium as the WSSU Powerhouse performed with the NFL squad once more. 

“Sometimes I wonder what I’m doing,” Hopson said on her quick snap back into the life of an NFL cheerleader while balancing being a mother, a wife and an employee. “But it’s my passion, so I’m happy to be here.” 

Now she’s headed to the Pro Bowl!

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Treasurer Folwell, who attended the HBCU during his early pursuit of a higher education degree as a nontraditional student, returned to university officials nearly $200,000 in missing money the Department of State Treasurer (DST) had been safeguarding.

“It gives me great pleasure as a former student to return this missing money to its rightful owners. I wish to thank Winston-Salem City Council member James Taylor Jr. for helping to facilitate this event, and Chancellor Brown for graciously agreeing to host the presentation on such an important day for the university,” Treasurer Folwell said.

“Winston-Salem State is not just a collection of buildings and books vital to learning. It embodies a culture, a state of mind and a sense of pride that define staff, students and faculty. Although I started my college career there in 1981, the same values, inspiration and confidence I gained as I worked simultaneously as a garbage collector and motorcycle mechanic remain a constant pillar of the education experience of today’s students,” Treasurer Folwell said.

Money that has become undeliverable for a variety of reasons is safeguarded at the Unclaimed Property Division (UPD) of DST until the rightful owners claim it. During a review of data in UPD, commonly called NCCash.com, DST staff identified $181,741.74 in credit balances and uncashed vendor payments belonging to Winston-Salem State. 

“We were pleased to learn that Winston-Salem State University has been included in another record year of unclaimed cash disbursements from the Department of State Treasurer. Their administration has demonstrated exceptional diligence in identifying the rightful recipients of these funds. Unexpected resources such as these bring an added touch of holiday cheer to our university,” Chancellor Brown said.

Winston-Salem State sits at #1 or near the top of numerous rankings of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) in North Carolina for value and other factors. It also is listed among the Top 10 HBCUs in the nation. With a motto of “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve,” the university offers 39 baccalaureate, seven master’s and two doctoral degrees to nearly 4,800 students. Founded as the Slater Industrial Academy?132 years ago, Winston-Salem State is now part of the UNC System. 

Under state law, NCCash.com is currently safeguarding nearly $1.3 billion in funds that are escheated, or turned over, to DST. The money is awaiting return to the rightful owners after being lost, misdirected or overlooked. It represents 22.1 million properties statewide, and more than 25 million owners are associated with those properties. 

During his eight years in office, Treasurer Folwell has put more than $610 million of misdirected money back into the pockets of those who were entitled to it.

“I would like to thank Deputy Treasurer Allen Martin, who supervises UPD, and his staff for the incredible work they do every day to reunite rightful owners to their missing money,” Treasurer Folwell said.

For the fiscal year 2023-24 that ended on June 30, UPD paid 145,032 claims totaling $115,063,782. The total payout surpassed the previous record of $108,586,650 set during the 2022-23 fiscal year. Another record was set for receipts in the NCCash program — $330,957,377 in 2023-24, compared to $300,095,512 the previous year. 

The unclaimed property consists of bank accounts, wages, utility deposits, insurance policy proceeds, stocks, bonds and contents of safe deposit boxes that have been abandoned.

Unclaimed property can result from a person or entity forgetting that they are due money, or from a move of location and forgetting to provide a new address.?It also could result from a typing error in a house number or zip code in an address, a name change, or data loss from a business converting its computer system.?As society becomes more mobile and steadily moves to electronic transactions, the risk of having unclaimed property has increased. 

– Article courtesy: WSSU

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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

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Winston-Salem State, long regarded as a powerhouse within the CIAA, ranks eighth in the nation with 7,200 fans per game at Bowman Gray Stadium. The Rams’ ability to attract significant crowds underscores the enduring impact of HBCU culture, where football games double as cultural events, bringing together alumni, students, and fans for a celebration of heritage and athleticism.

Virginia Union and Clark Atlanta round out the group, exemplifying how HBCUs continue to command attention and loyalty in Division II. Beyond the numbers, these schools demonstrate the unique role that HBCU football programs play in their communities, fostering pride and engagement through generations.

While some FCS and even FBS programs struggle to fill their stands, HBCUs have consistently proven their ability to galvanize support, reinforcing their vital role in shaping the landscape of college football. These attendance figures are a testament to the cultural significance and enduring appeal of HBCU football.

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Musco lighting solutions provide the high light levels required for television broadcast, the uniformity and glare control specified by international racing organization safety standards, and an unforgettable race night experience for spectators – at the venue and broadcast on television or online. Installation will begin in December and will be completed in advance of The Clash in February.

“This collaboration with NASCAR is a testament to their strong commitment to community engagement,” said Winston-Salem State University Chancellor Bonita Brown. “The installation of new lighting will enhance the experience for our student-athletes, fans and the broader community, making our stadium a brighter and more inviting place for everyone. We are thrilled about these improvements as well as the ongoing partnership we have with NASCAR that offers our students exposure to the motorsports industry.”

Crews began preparing Bowman Gray Stadium for SAFER barrier installation on Oct. 21 with the removal of the previous guardrail system. Installation of the new barriers and catch fencing is anticipated to be completed by the first week of January. The stadium will soon be home to a new statue dedicated to Bill Hayes, one of the all-time great coaches in HBCU football history.

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1. Miles College (6th, 8-1 overall, 8-1 in-region) – Miles holds a critical advantage as it will compete in the SIAC Football Championship game against Clark Atlanta this week. A win here would solidify its position in the top seven, while a loss could endanger its playoff spot. Currently, it is in control of its own destiny.

2. Johnson C. Smith University (7th, 8-2 overall, 8-2 in-region) – JCSU is clinging to the seventh and final NCAA playoff spot, but it will be idle this week after dropping a game to Livingstone. This leaves its fate partially in the hands of other teams’ performances. Johnson C. Smith needs key teams, like Virginia Union and West Florida, to falter if they hope to hold their position in the final playoff bracket.

3. Virginia Union University (9th, 7-2 overall, 6-1 in-region) – Virginia Union has a crucial opportunity to improve its standing as it faces Virginia State in the CIAA Championship game. A win could boost it into playoff position, depending on how other results fall. It’ll be aiming to move past Johnson C. Smith, taking advantage of JCSU’s idle week despite the fact it lost the head-to-head matchup with it. 

4. Winston-Salem State University (10th, 7-2 overall, 6-2 in-region) – Winston-Salem State dropped in the rankings despite a thrilling 37-31 overtime victory over Fayetteville State. Like Johnson C. Smith, WSSU will be idle this week, limiting its ability to make a final impression. It will be watching the outcomes of the SIAC and CIAA championships closely, hoping for results that might create an opening for it.

With two of these four HBCU football programs (Johnson C. Smith and Winston-Salem State) idle, their NCAA playoff hopes will rest largely on the performances of Miles and Virginia Union. This week’s results will be decisive in determining which HBCUs make it into the playoff field. For more insights on team scenarios and standings, check HBCUGameday.com for the latest updates.

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The game began with WSSU taking an early lead, courtesy of a 12-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Daylin Lee to Gabriel Linen. FSU answered back in the second quarter with an 88-yard touchdown pass from Joe Owens Jr. to Julia Milligan, tying the game. The teams traded scores in the second half, setting the stage for an intense fourth quarter.

WSSU regained the lead in the final quarter with a 24-yard touchdown pass from Lee to Kaleb Washington, only for FSU to retaliate with a 1-yard run by Caden Davis. With less than two minutes remaining, WSSU’s Asa Barnes powered through for a 7-yard touchdown run, putting the Rams up 24-21. But with mere seconds left, FSU’s Julian Hernandez-Varga drilled a 37-yard field goal, sending the game into overtime.

In the first overtime, Lee ran in a 4-yard touchdown, which FSU matched with a touchdown pass from Owens to Harris-Strayhor. The second overtime proved decisive as Lee found Washington again for a 20-yard touchdown, sealing the win for WSSU when FSU missed their ensuing field goal attempt.

This dramatic victory delighted the 12,000 fans in attendance — its highest attendance number since 2017 — and solidified WSSU’s remarkable season. WSSU finished 6-2 in the CIAA, but will not make the title game. It is, however, in contention for a Division II playoff spot. 

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Robert Massey shared the team’s commitment, 

“We have to take care of our business…the next team is Fayetteville State University. They’re coming in for our homecoming.” 

He emphasized the significance of the occasion, noting, “This class here has a chance to win…two or three homecomings…We want to send this new class out on the right note.” 

A win would not only cap the seniors’ careers with a memorable homecoming victory but also keep WSSU’s NCAA Division II playoff hopes alive.  WSSU (6-3, 6-2 in Division II play) was one of three CIAA teams ranked in the recent regional rankings.

“Currently, we are in seventh place in the regional rankings. If we win…we at least hold that spot and have the opportunity —  possibly —  to play an additional game for these seniors.”

For many players, the rivalry with FSU adds an extra layer of motivation. WSSU leads the all-time series 50-18-3, but Fayetteville State has won five of the last six meetings, including four in a row. It will also be riding high after a 27-0 loss over a previously undefeated Johnson C. Smith team. 

“With this being our last game, and against a cross-town rival…it’s the perfect opportunity to go out with a bang on homecoming and beat FSU,” said senior defensive back Justin Fleming. Center Darius McDuffie echoed the sentiment. “We haven’t beaten them yet, but what’s a better way to beat ’em than on homecoming?”

The Rams are also mindful of the significance for their fans and alumni, who come out in full force for homecoming. “Everybody’s coming to see you play,” Massey reminded the players. “Your homecoming is going to happen after the game is over, and we’re going to win the game.”

Reflecting on what this season and game mean for the seniors, Massey got emotional.

“These guys made a commitment to themselves, to WSSU…and I just happened to be a part of it…They stayed the course. And that’s a testament to the university as a good place to be.” He emphasized how these players have set the standard for future Rams: “They were committed to winning. They were committed to improving their legacy here as a WSSU grad.”

WSSU is 6-2 against Division II teams, with wins over Virginia State and Shaw (both of whom have won six games) and a Livingstone team that will finish no worse than 5-5. But even a win might not be enough to get it into the postseason.

Either way, with NCAA playoff hopes and homecoming pride at stake, the Rams are determined to end their season on a high note. 

“We refuse to lose homecoming this year,” linebacker Jashahn Rankin declared.

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Johnson C. Smith holds a perfect 8-0 record, reflecting its dominance in the CIAA and positioning it well for a playoff berth. Virginia Union, with a 6-1 record, continues to build on its recent success and has emerged as a top contender in the region. Winston-Salem State, at 6-2, rounds out the list of HBCUs, proving that they’re a team to watch in the playoff race. This inclusion of three HBCU programs signifies the strong presence and growing respect for CIAA football within Division II.

A fourth HBCU, Miles College, is the lone SIAC team on the initial list. It is 6-1 on the season.

The Division II playoff selection process involves regional rankings to ensure representation from different parts of the country. The top teams from each of the four super regions are selected to compete, with a committee assessing factors such as win-loss record, strength of schedule, and head-to-head competition. The final ranking, not alphabetical, will determine which teams secure a spot in the playoff bracket, making each remaining game crucial for these HBCUs.

For these HBCU programs, advancing to the NCAA playoffs is a prestigious opportunity to compete on a national level and elevate the profile of HBCU football. As the season progresses, all three CIAA teams will look to solidify their standing in the rankings, aiming to secure their places in the playoffs and proudly represent HBCU football on the national stage.

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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.

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JCSU’s defense set the tone early, stifling WSSU’s offense and limiting it to just 155 total yards. WSSU managed only six first downs in the game and was held to 39 rushing yards, averaging just 1.7 yards per carry.

The Golden Bulls’ defensive front dominated, preventing the Rams from establishing any momentum on the ground. The Rams’ passing game fared little better, as quarterback Daylin Lee completed just 10 of 25 passes, often facing pressure that forced hurried throws and incompletions.

JCSU’s offense, meanwhile, found success through a balanced attack. Running back Kamarr Edmonds was instrumental, scoring the game’s opening touchdown on a 6-yard rush and later breaking free for a 56-yard run in the fourth quarter. Quarterback Darius Ocean connected with Edmonds for a 27-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, building a 17-0 lead that JCSU wouldn’t relinquish.

Though WSSU briefly rallied with a 37-yard interception return by Narique Smith, cutting the score to 17-7, the Golden Bulls answered back with a clock-controlling drive capped by a short touchdown run by Quavari Crouch. A late WSSU touchdown wasn’t enough to overcome the Golden Bulls’ dominant performance.

This victory not only solidifies JCSU’s standing as an elite HBCU program this season but also reaffirms their place in CIAA history. Returning home to face Fayetteville State, the Golden Bulls’ undefeated season and championship hopes continue to draw the attention of HBCU fans and alumni nationwide.

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But beyond the high stakes of this matchup, the game holds special significance for twin brothers Ibrahim and Mohamed Meite, who will be facing off for the first time. Born in Greensboro, N.C., with roots in Côte D’Ivoire, the Meite brothers grew up close, but their friendly rivalry has only strengthened their bond, their sister, Koko Lombeko, told the CIAA. “The boys have always been close—they’re twins! But they’re also fiercely competitive, and playing against each other has been a dream,” she shared.

Mohamed, a senior offensive lineman for Winston-Salem State, joined the Rams this season. His decision to join WSSU came after a pivotal moment, when he received a call from Coach Holmes with an offer. “He felt it was a sign,” Lombeko explained. “Mohamed had been going through a difficult time, and Winston-Salem State, a place he admired since childhood, became the beacon he needed.”

Meanwhile, Ibrahim, a four-year veteran at Johnson C. Smith, embraced the opportunities HBCU life in the city of Charlotte offers. Lombeko added, “Ibrahim chose JCSU for the vibrant city life and the unique opportunities that come with attending an HBCU like Johnson C. Smith.”

The game will be a family affair, with relatives, including their father and sister, cheering them on and capturing the moment live for loved ones who can’t attend.

Don’t miss the action on Saturday, October 26, at 1:00 P.M., as Johnson C. Smith and Winston-Salem State go head-to-head in what promises to be an unforgettable HBCU matchup.

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WSSU Athletic Director Etienne Thomas stressed the importance of this game for the Rams — both competitively and from a presentation standpoint.

“This is more than just another game—it’s about controlling our fate in the CIAA championship race.” She added, “We need to protect the legacy, and our fans can see the progress we’ve made this season.” 

Thomas also emphasized how crucial this game is for HBCU football exposure on a national platform.

“The TV angle is the visitor side, so that’s so critical. When they put in camera placement, we know that the Rams will pack the stands where we like to sit on our home side next to the band, next the student section, making sure we’re standing behind our team,” Thomas continued. “We also want to make sure we fill that entire bowl, so is great if we see some sprinkles of blue here and there, but we need to see red and white all throughout this entire horseshoe.”

WSSU is pushing for a massive turnout at Bowman Gray Stadium, which has a capacity of 17,000. The goal is to surpass the 7,458 fans who attended the 2023 season opener, as the Rams aim to show off their home-field advantage in one of the season’s most important HBCU matchups. 

“We are needing at least 10,000 people in the stands,” said April Reid, Associate Athletics Director for Operations and Equipment.

For perspective, the last time WSSU recorded five digits in attendance at the historic stadium was its Nov. 2, 2019 homecoming game against Shaw University.

WSSU head coach Robert Massey knows the importance of the game.

“There’s pressure, but that pressure is what drives us to compete and win,” Massey said. “We expect to see more red than gold and blue, and that support will make all the difference.”

WSSU has dominated the series over the last half century, losing just three games to Johnson C. Smith since Bill Hayes took over the program in 1976. JCSU hasn’t beaten WSSU at Bowman Gray Stadium since 1975. Offensive lineman Keith Quick wasn’t around back then, but he is aware of the success and determined to write the next chapter between the two HBCUs separated by just over an hour on I-85. 

“Historically speaking, we’ve been a great team, especially against that team. So we want to continue to build that legacy and keep history on our side,” Quick said. “So it’s not really a big deal. Like every game is somebody else’s Super Bowl against us. So we just want to go ahead and keep winning.”

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Winston-Salem State pulled ahead in the second quarter, with Gilberto Lorenzana nailing a 36-yard field goal, followed by a 35-yard touchdown pass from Daylin Lee to Kaleb Washington, giving the Rams a 17-7 lead at halftime.

In the third quarter, Livingstone managed to close the gap with a 31-yard field goal by Jason Zapata, but Winston-Salem State’s defense stepped up. Dante Bowlding’s 18-yard interception return for a touchdown pushed WSSU’s lead to 24-10.

The Rams’ offensive line dominated the fourth quarter with a grinding 13-play, 68-yard drive, culminating in a 1-yard touchdown run by Lee, sealing the game at 31-10. Livingstone managed a late touchdown, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.

The win gives WSSU a 6-2 record overall, and 4-1 in CIAA play, securing the first winning season since 2018 for the HBCU program. That moves it into third place in the CIAA behind Virginia Union and Johnson C. Smith. WSSU is set to host JCSU next Saturday in a game that could help determine who makes it to Salem, VA for the CIAA title game. 

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“I’m excited about this opportunity,” Thompson told HBCU Gameday. “But I also know, too — we’ve got to come in and be able to do what we supposed to do and protect the legacy.”

Thompson trotted his new look team out onto the court at the Gaines Center on Friday night for “Ram Madness,”  the annual introduction to the basketball season. This season’s event truly had a new feeling.

Not only are Thompson and assistants Alphonza Kee and Tony Jones new to the Ramily — so is 85 percent of the team team. Only four players from last season’s team are back this season — and only Jeremy Dixon saw significant playing time under now-departed Cleo Hill Jr. and his coaching staff. 

The rest of the team is made up of newcomers. Among them are two sophomores from Charlotte — Jaiden Thompson and Wesley Tubbs. Both players committed to WSSU prior to Hill heading up to Division I HBCU Maryland-Eastern Shore. While some committed players followed him to the MEAC school, Thompson and Tubbs decided to stick around. That was big for Thompson, who says he went to work securing those commitments as soon as his introductory press conference was over. 

“Just had to re-recruit those guys over again,” Thompson said. “But the thing about it is, they love WSSU. They love the program, but they love Winston-Salem State. And so it was an easy, easy sell for me to keep them here. But both of those guys are going to be really key for us this year.” 

Thompson was a highly-regarded guard at Central Cabarrus High School. He signed with Charleston Southern and was named to the Big South All-Rookie Team, but decided to hit the portal and committed to WSSU. Tubbs, a 6’7 wing, was a three-star member of the 2023 class with offers from some big time schools before heading to prep school.

“Jaiden really running the show, doing a good job at a point guard position, and Wesley just being very, diverse can play multiple positions,” Thompson said. “Can guard multiple positions. So we’re excited about keeping those two guys on.”

Joining Thompson on the staff are Thompson and Jones. Thompson worked as Kee’s assistant at Fayetteville State for several years before going to Saint Paul’s High School where he added Jones as an assistant following his stint as interim head coach at UNC Pembroke. 

“I’ve been coaching for a long time, and it’s all about relationships, for me,” Thompson said. “So just being getting coaches that I know personally, building relationships with. Both from assistant coaches have a college head coaching experience.”

WSSU was picked to finish fifth in the 12 team CIAA this season despite so many new pieces. Thompson, the first former WSSU player to coach at the school, credits that prediction to the legacy and recent success of his HBCU. Cleo Hill Jr. won 90 games and two titles in his five seasons at WSSU, and Thompson knows first hand the expectations remain high at 601 S. MLK Dr.

“As I talked about and what we’re said in Baltimore, tradition don’t win games games. You’re right tradition does not win games. But what it helps you do is also lay the foundation. And understand that coming in — there’s expectation. And so knowing that expectation here at WSSU is to win, you got to know that coming in. So you know we’ve been able to bring in some great guys I’m excited about that. But most importantly you know we got some guys that buy into the team that’s bought into the concept.”

After all, “Protect The Legacy” isn’t written on the walls of the C.E. Gaines Center for nothing.

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A standout player at Kinston High School, where he was named All-Conference Player of the Year and earned All-State 1st Team honors, Dixon joined the Rams in 2022. In his first two seasons, Dixon contributed off the bench, playing in 18 games during the 2022-2023 season and averaging 2.3 points per game for the squad that won the CIAA championship. By his sophomore year, his role expanded as he played in 28 games, starting 11 of them, and averaged 4.7 points and 1.8 rebounds per game.

When Cleo Hill Jr. left WSSU for Maryland Eastern Shore, several players followed him to the D1 school while others went elsewhere. An unashamedly spiritual young man, Dixon said it was his conversation with new WSSU head coach Corey Thompson that allowed him to connect on a level higher than basketball that convinced him to stick around.

“It was a great conversation. Very much peaceful, especially him being a man of faith, and me being a man of faith myself, it kind of — it was very peaceful. With Christ in the center of it. So, it was really, really, really good.”

He has steadily worked his way into a leadership role, something head coach Corey Thompson values. 

“Jeremy is a winner,” Thompson says. “He’s won here at Winston-Salem State and in high school. His leadership is essential for us moving forward.”

Though his role is likely to expand, Dixon’s focus is on helping the team win rather than chasing individual stats. 

“I’m not a guy who goes out there and scores 40 points,” he says. “I’m going to play team ball, score when I need to, rebound, and get my teammates involved.”

With his increased role, Dixon is poised to be a key player as the Rams look to rebuild and contend for another CIAA title under coach Thompson’s leadership.

“It’s a clean slate,” Dixon says. “The new guys have a lot of grit and talent, and I’m confident we can compete for the CIAA championship again.”

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Series Overview:

• Series Record: Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) leads the all-time series 47-14-1 over Livingstone College.
• Location: The two NC HBCU schools are located roughly 40 minutes apart.
• Current Streak: Livingstone has won the last two contests
• Next Matchup: Set for October 19., 2024, this game continues a rivalry that dates back decades, with WSSU holding a dominant position in the series.

Livingstone College (2024 Season so far):

• Record: 5-2 overall, 3-1 in the CIAA.
• Offensive Output:
• Livingstone has been competitive, scoring 146 points (20.86 per game), just shy of their opponents’ 149 points.
• Their rushing attack is balanced, led by Mohamed Nyanamukenga, who has 575 rushing yards and averages 95.83 yards per game.
• The Blue Bears have also thrown for 1,042 yards and 9 passing TDs but have thrown 8 interceptions, a point of concern.
  
• Defensive Performance:
• The defense has tallied 20 sacks on the season and has been effective in forcing turnovers, with 11 interceptions.
• The special teams have been a bright spot with a 13.57-yard punt return average, but the team has struggled with a low third-down conversion rate (27.08%)

Winston-Salem State University

• Record: 5-2 overall, 3-1 in the CIAA.
• Offensive Strength:
• WSSU has scored 163 points (23.29 per game), outscoring their opponents by nearly a touchdown per game
• The ground game is led by Trevon Hester, with 638 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns, averaging 91.14 yards per game.
• Quarterback Daylin Lee has been efficient, passing for 1,231 yards with 9 TDs against only 3 interceptions, contributing to an average of 177.43 passing yards per game.
  
• Defensive Performance:
• WSSU’s defense has allowed only 116 points over seven games, averaging 16.57 points allowed per game.
• The Rams have been opportunistic, forcing 9 interceptions and recording 12 sacks, while limiting opposing quarterbacks to just 5.75 yards per attempt.
• Key playmakers include Justin Fleming, who has 53 tackles and 3 interceptions, including a pick-six.

Key Matchups to Watch:

• Livingstone’s Offense vs. WSSU’s Defense:
• Livingstone’s rushing attack will face a stiff test against a WSSU defense allowing just 123.6 rushing yards per game. Can Nyanamukenga continue his strong season against a disciplined Rams front?
• On the other side, Livingstone’s pass protection will need to neutralize WSSU’s pass rush, which has accumulated 12 sacks so far
  
• WSSU’s Rushing Attack vs. Livingstone’s Defense:
• WSSU’s Trevon Hester will look to exploit Livingstone’s defense, which has allowed 871 rushing yards. If Hester gets going early, it could be a long day for the Blue Bear.

Prediction:

With both teams entering the game at 5-2 and evenly matched within the CIAA, WSSU holds the edge due to its historical dominance and more balanced team performance. If Livingstone’s defense can force turnovers and keep the game close, it could pull an upset, but WSSU’s firepower and more consistent play may prove too much in this HBCU matchup.

Final Score Prediction: WSSU 28, Livingstone 17.

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Winston-Salem State University has received a $400,000 National Science Foundation (NSF) grant that will integrate esports into its HBCU computer science education program.

The grant was awarded to a WSSU research team led by Dr. Jinghua Zhang, a computer science professor, along with co-principal investigators, Dr. Mustafa Atay, computer science professor, and Dr. Rennae Stowe, associate professor of health, physical education and sport studies.

The award is from NSF’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities-Undergraduate Program and will support their project titled, “Enhancing Undergraduate Computer Science Education Through Esports,” an interdisciplinary initiative to enhance undergraduate computer science education, using the integration of esports as a tool for cultural expression and innovation.

Students compete in WSSU’s first esports competition in August 2023.

This project will help Winston-Salem State University improve computer science education, attract new underrepresented minority students to pursue a computer science degree, and help enrollment and retention of these students resulting in an increasing pool of qualified underrepresented minority graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields.

This initiative aligns with WSSU’s strategic priorities, which aim to support students in reaching their full potential through high-quality teaching and research. Infusing esports into computer science courses carries a host of broader impacts that extend far beyond the classroom, Zhang said. This innovative approach provides a gateway for underrepresented groups to explore computer science fields and has ripple effects on various aspects of their academic and professional lives.

“We are excited to receive this grant, which will enable the development of our esports lab,” Zhang said. “This initiative will enhance interdisciplinary collaboration and bring new energy to our computer science curriculum, allowing us to integrate esports-infused modules and provide students with hands-on experience in this fast-growing industry.”

One of the most significant impacts of this effort will be the increased representation of underrepresented minority students in STEM fields. Additionally, it will help bridge the achievement gap in STEM subjects among underrepresented minority students by providing a more engaging way to learn complex concepts and fostering a sense of confidence in these areas. Beyond education, the integration of esports introduces students to a wide range of career opportunities within the growing esports industry.

Infusing esports into computer science education has the potential to empower underrepresented minority students to explore their passions, develop essential skills and envision themselves in STEM careers, ultimately contributing to a more diverse and innovative STEM landscape.

For more information, email Dr. Jinghua Zhang at zhangji@wssu.edu.

About HBCU-UP: The Historically Black Colleges and Universities-Undergraduate Program (HBCU-UP) through Targeted Infusion Projects supports the development, implementation, and study of evidence-based, innovative models and approaches for improving the preparation and success of HBCU undergraduate students so that they may pursue science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) graduate programs and/or careers.

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Coach Conley graduated from Winston-Salem State University in 1977 with his bachelor of science degree in Political Science and was a member of the men’s basketball team playing for the legendary Big House Gaines. He helped WSSU claim the 1977 CIAA championship, the eighth in school history.

He received his Master’s in Sports Administration in 1984 from the United States Sports Academy. Coach Conley was one of the first alums to coach at his alma mater, leading the women’s basketball team from 1981 to 1994. He stayed on as a faculty member at WSSU in the Physical Education and Sports Management department until his recent retirement.

Coach Conley was the all-time winningest coach for the Women’s Basketball program finishing 12 seasons with 128 wins. He coached many Ram legends that still hold records in the WSSU history book such as C.E. Gaines Hall of Famer, Keenan Menefee-Long, all-time leading scorer, Carolyn Huntley, and All-time leading rebounder Sharon Holloway-Tanner.

Coach Conley was recently inducted into his high school, McDowell Hall of Fame.

Funeral services and arrangements are still being made at this time.

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“Daylin’s a smart young man. He understands the job. He understands the business. He’s resilient,” Massey said. “And that’s what you need at that position. He can spin it, he can run it when he need to run it. But more importantly, he’s a real good leader. So that’s important for us.”

WSSU accumulated 513 yards of total offense on Saturday, with 244 of it coming via Lee’s arm and another 269 on the ground. Trevon Hester led the rushing attack with 181 yards and one touchdown. Those totals include a 70 yard run to put the final points on the board. 

The Rams started hot on their opening drive, going 95 yards in 12 plays to take a 7-0 lead in the first quarter on a one-yard plunge by Lee. Shaw would respond with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Christian Peters to Ka’Trez Bracey, but the PAT would be blocked. Lee found Christian MacDonald for a 16 yard touchdown strike with 53 seconds remaining in the half, but that PAT would be blocked as well.

WSSU scored 21 unanswered points in the second half to take control of the game. The final points would come on Hester’s long touchdown run, which was set up by a clutch interception by Justin Fleming that took a badly needed score from the visitors.

The win improved WSSU’s record to 5-2, 3-1 in CIAA play. The win total is the best for the long-time powerhouse HBCU since Massey took over the program on an interim basis back in 2019. It will next face a Livingstone College program that has an identical record and beat it on its home field last season. Fleming, who is tied for the CIAA lead in interceptions with three, is a graduate student who says the team will be looking to make amends for last season’s loss to its closest rival. 

“It’s very big. We gotta get our payback for everybody that beat us last year — we want to eventually get our getback from everybody,” Fleming said. “It’s very important — like I said — to get to where we want to be at the end of the season, and that’s to get the championship.” 

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The junior defensive lineman transferred from Bluefield State University. Norris went to Escambia High School in Pensacola, FL where he earned the award for having the most sacks of the year for the team.

While Norris was at Bluefield State University he played against WSSU and he got the coaching staff and Myles Wallace’s attention.

The six-foot defensive lineman hit the transfer portal and landed at WSSU.

Transferring to WSSU was a big decision but the experience Norris has had is unique and valuable.

“The experience here was an experience I never had at Bluefield, even though that was my first home,” Norris told HBCU Gameday. “The crowd and the band are exciting.”

Norris has also had a welcoming experience in the student culture as well.

“My favorite part is the resources around everybody helps, is easy to talk to, and help you get what you need,” Norris said.

Norris has played an essential role in WSSU’s progress this season. WSSU now has a 4-2 record. WSSU hoped this would be its revival season.

“We trust the offense, the quarterback, running backs, O-line, and everyone on defense,” Jaylyn Norris said. “We have to trust everyone to get the job done and we expect to do that every week.” 

WSSU lost to CIAA rival Virginia Union University 31-13 last week. As it continues to prepare for the back half of the season, Norris says the team continues to build trust between themselves and the coaches.

“We just executed the coaches’ plans and we plan to keep doing that,” Norris said, “Wehope to get the results we want every week, which is a win.”

Despite the defeat in Richmond, Norris had his best game of the year with five total tackles and three for loss. He has 15 tackles and four tackles for loss on the season. 

WSSU will be back at Bowman Gray Stadium taking on Shaw University this Saturday. Kickoff is at 1:00 pm.

– Story by Tia Greene

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“This collaboration is a testament to the role that Winston-Salem State University plays in creating the future of motorsports,” said Dr. Manju Bhat, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “Our students will not only learn about the industry in the classroom, but they will also have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.”

As part of the NASCAR Campus Lab program, 15 WSSU students, primarily sophomores and juniors, will be selected to participate. These students will engage in marketing activations, compete in case studies, and receive hands-on exposure to the world of motorsports. Each student will also receive a $3,500 scholarship from NASCAR, with one standout earning a spot in NASCAR’s prestigious Diversity Internship Program.

“This partnership reflects our deep commitment to offering relevant and innovative academic programs that prepare our students for the demands of today’s workforce,” said WSSU Chancellor Bonita Brown. “It’s more than just a program—this is an opportunity for our students to be at the forefront of an industry that is evolving. NASCAR’s commitment to diversity aligns perfectly with WSSU’s mission to provide life-changing experiences for our students.”

Brandon Thompson, NASCAR’s Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion, shared his excitement for the collaboration. 

“We are thrilled to continue this partnership with WSSU. This program gives students exposure, experience, and opportunity while also allowing NASCAR to tap into the next generation of diverse professionals who will drive innovation in our sport.”

WSSU student Rajah Caruth, the third Black driver to win a NASCAR series race, is a shining example of what this partnership can inspire. His achievements highlight the potential of WSSU’s motorsports program to produce industry leaders both on and off the track.

“This partnership is truly a victory for Winston-Salem State University, NASCAR, and most importantly, our students,” Chancellor Brown noted. “Together, we are paving the way for a diverse and inclusive future in motorsports.”

The collaboration marks a historic moment, as WSSU and NASCAR together create new pathways for HBCU students to thrive in the motorsports industry.

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“I didn’t really go off until my senior year, so I was on the recruiting scene late,” Grimes told HBCU Gameday. 

The 5’8 wide out was recruited to the program by former WSSU quarterback and offensive coordinator Kam Smith, who saw potential in him. Despite that potential, he didn’t see much action in 2023. A 14-yard touchdown catch against Johnson C. Smith was his lone grab of the season. 

“That’s how it’s been has always been my whole life,” Grimes said of the sparse playing time. “I never really got the push. I always had to fight and crawl for my playing time. It was normal for me. It wasn’t anything abnormal. I just kept my head down and kept working.” 

A year older and better, Grimes has been a key part of the WSSU attack in the first half of the season. He currently leads all receivers with 17 catches for 201 yards and a touchdown. 

That total includes a 65 yard touchdown pass in Saturday’s 28-14 win over Bowie State. The 65 yard strike from fellow Class of 2023 prospect Daylin Lee was the longest in the career of both players. 

“We had repped that a lot in practice, and by ourselves actually on the field, so we were really looking forward to that play. T-Mac (Christian MacDonald) really got across that corner’s face so when I turned that corner all I had to do was run and catch.”

The running game has been featured heavily this season, but Lee had a breakout three-touchdown game against BSU. Grimes says what happened in that game was just a glimpse of what the receiving corp. has to offer.

“I have supreme confidence in our receiving corps. And I feel if we keep throwing that ball down the field, we’re going to keep making plays,” Grimes said. “We’re just real deep. We have a lot of talent and ability in that room.”

WSSU is set to take on long-time CIAA rival Virginia Union on Saturday in Richmond. 

– Tia Greene

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The WSSU Powerhouse Cheerleaders and the Red Sea of Sound Marching Band will perform with the Carolina Panthers’ TopCats in “The Merge.” The two sides first met last December when the Powerhouse joined with fellow HBCU ensembles including South Carolina State cheerleaders and the North Carolina A&T Blue and Gold Marching Machine during a game for the NFL franchise in 2023.

Brandi Smith Hopson, a former WSSU cheerleader, is a captain for the NFL squad.. Quintin DeBerry, also a WSSU alumnus, is Carolina Panthers Director of Inclusion & Belonging.

The Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) cheerleading squad, known as “The Powerhouse of Red and White,” has consistently achieved national recognition. The team gained significant attention for their viral TikTok videos, which highlighted their dynamic stomp-and-shake style and their celebration of natural hair, inspiring many in the HBCU community.

In 2022, the cheerleaders reached new heights by appearing in the music video for Ciara’s single “Jump,” where their performance showcased their unique style and solidified their presence in mainstream media. Additionally, Destiny Martin, a former member of the squad, was selected as a brand ambassador for Champion, further demonstrating the team’s growing influence.

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More importantly, this is a matchup of a team looking to defend the conference title against one looking to make its biggest statement yet that it is ready for one. 

WSSU enters this game as one of the surprises of the HBCU football season, boasting a 4-1 record. That is its best start since 2014, when it made it all the way to the CIAA title game as one of the premiere HBCU programs of the time. 

The Rams’ offense has been effective, averaging 23.2 points per game and accumulating 838 rushing yards over five games, averaging 167.6 yards per game on the ground . Trevon Hester leads the charge, averaging 75.8 rushing yards per game with three touchdowns. The Rams’ passing game, led by quarterback Daylin Lee, has added 745 yards and six touchdowns — including three last week in a win over Bowie State.

WSSU head coach Robert Massey said that despite several drops on Saturday that could have resulted in a bigger day on the stat sheet, he’s confident in the passing game.

“From a confidence standpoint we feel good that we can go run the ball or throw the ball if need be to beat folk,” Massey said. “Daylin had a heck of a game. Three touchdowns, no turnovers and he controlled the ball, controlled the field — controlled the game for us. He checked in and out of good situations from around run-pass stand point and we allow him to do that. So having a guy of his caliber that gives us confidence going into games, where we know is key can get us out of some bad situations.

Defensively, WSSU has been stout, allowing just 14.2 points per game while snagging eight interceptions. Justin Fleming has been a defensive standout with 40 tackles and two interceptions, while leading the team in sacks with three. The Rams’ ability to control the line of scrimmage has also been key, with the team racking up 12 sacks on the season — four against Bowie State last week.

Virginia Union University (2-2, 1-1 CIAA)

Virginia Union, sitting at 2-2, is coming off a dominant 42-7 victory against Shaw. They’ve shown offensive balance, averaging 354.3 total yards per game. Running back Jada Byers is the focal point of the offense, averaging 108.33 rushing yards per game and scoring five touchdowns. 

Massey said Byers’ accolades are well-deserved, but he likes his defense heading into the matchup. 

“I don’t know if just from the film that I’ve seen if he’s played against a defense that is as athletic as we are. We are very athletic on the back end. The receivers had a big, big week this past week in the throwing game, throwing the ball. But our DBs can cover when you’ve gotten a little older on the back end by way of the portal and it’s showing — and that’s important.

VUU quarterback Mark Wright has also been efficient, throwing for 471 yards and four touchdowns with a completion rate of 64.15%. Receiver Reginald Vick has been explosive, averaging 143 receiving yards per game with three touchdowns.

“We’re going to go there to stop the run and force them to pass,” Massey said. “And then we’ll get out, we’ll pin ears back and get after the quarterback — hopefully to take their fans out of the game and and keep outside of the ball game.”

Defensively, VUU has shown resilience, but it has allowed 367.7 yards per game. It has been vulnerable on third downs, allowing opponents to convert at a 51.11% rate , and its time of possession has been a concern, with opponents holding the ball nearly seven minutes longer per game . However, linebacker Shamar Graham has been a standout with 35 tackles, including three tackles for loss.

Keys to the Game

• WSSU’s Ground Game vs. VUU’s Front Seven: WSSU will likely lean on their rushing attack, led by Hester, to wear down VUU’s defense, which has allowed 150 rushing yards per game. VUU will need to contain the Rams’ potent running game to keep the contest close.
• Virginia Union’s Passing Attack: VUU’s ability to stretch the field with Vick and Wright could challenge WSSU’s secondary, which has been strong, with eight interceptions. If VUU can establish the pass early, it may open lanes for Byers on the ground.
• Turnovers and Time of Possession: WSSU’s defense has thrived on turnovers, and maintaining that trend will be crucial. VUU has struggled to control the clock, and if WSSU can sustain long drives, it may prove decisive.
  

This game promises to be a hard-fought battle between two historic HBCU powerhouses with much at stake as they try to break the series tie and gain a crucial CIAA win.

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Bowie State struck first with a 16-yard rushing touchdown by Sam Doku, capping a 56-yard drive, but WSSU responded swiftly in the second quarter. A 65-yard touchdown pass from Daylin Lee to Jayden Grimes tied the game. WSSU then added two more touchdowns before halftime— a 2-yard rush by Trevon Hester and a 9-yard pass from Lee to Kaleb Washington—taking a 21-7 lead into the break.

In the fourth quarter, WSSU extended their lead when Lee threw his third touchdown of the game, connecting with Devin Cunningham for a 27-yard score. BSU mounted a late response with a 2-yard touchdown pass from Kevin Taylor to Carlos Smith, but it was too little, too late.

Statistically, WSSU’s efficiency stood out despite BSU’s 33:35 edge in time of possession. Lee threw for 188 yards and three touchdowns, with Grimes leading the receiving corps with 79 yards and a score. Hester was the standout on the ground with 76 yards rushing.

Defensively, WSSU dominated with five sacks and two interceptions, thwarting BSU’s offense. Despite the loss, BSU’s Curtis Murray was effective on the ground with 41 rushing yards. The loss dropped Bowie State to 1-3 overall and 0-1 in the CIAA.

WSSU’s balanced attack and strong defense propelled them to another key conference win as they look to build on their successful start to the 2024 season. WSSU has won three games in a row with its sole loss coming to FCS rival North Carolina A&T in overtime.

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Cooke has spent the last two seasons playing for the Iowa Wolves, the G League Affiliate of the Minnesota Timberwolves. He averaged 16.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.3 steals per contest while shooting 44.4% from the field and 37.5% from the three-point range in 32 games (27 starts) last season. 

After a strong collegiate career, Cooke joined the Iowa Wolves for the 2022-23 season and the Minnesota Timberwolves for the 2023 NBA Summer League. Despite a slow start, he finished the summer league with back-to-back double-digit performances, including a team-high 16 points against the Charlotte Hornets. His ability to contribute in various facets of the game—scoring, rebounding, and providing highlight-worthy plays like a thunderous putback dunk—caught the attention of many.

Before his professional journey, Cooke made a significant impact in the CIAA while playing for HBCU Winston-Salem State. During the 2021-2022 season, he averaged 17.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and shot nearly 40 percent from beyond the arc. One of his most memorable college performances came in the CIAA Tournament, where he scored a season-high 31 points, leading WSSU to a dominant win.

Cooke’s path to success included stints at USC-Aiken and Mars Hill University before arriving at WSSU, where he solidified his reputation as a versatile and reliable guard.

He will now look to stick with the Oklahoma City Thunder organization.

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In an intense and hard-fought contest, Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) pulled off a dramatic 15-14 victory over Virginia State University (VSU) with a clutch field goal in the final seconds. WSSU overcame a 14-6 deficit late in the fourth quarter to stun the Trojans in a game that went down to the wire.

First Half

Winston-Salem State struck first, converting a field goal from 30 yards by Gilberto Lorenzana with 14:42 left in the second quarter to take a 3-0 lead. The Rams’ defense held strong early, but Virginia State responded with a determined ground attack. At 11:01 in the second quarter, VSU’s Tylique Ray capped off a 7-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful extra point from Joshua Campbell, putting the Trojans ahead 7-3.

Winston-Salem’s offense struggled to find the end zone for the remainder of the first half, and VSU went into halftime holding a slim 7-3 advantage.

Third Quarter Action

The second half began with both teams jockeying for momentum. Midway through the third quarter, Lorenzana delivered his second field goal of the game—a 37-yard kick that brought WSSU within one point at 7-6 with 3:11 left in the third. The Rams stayed in striking distance, setting the stage for an exciting final quarter.

Fourth Quarter Drama

Early in the fourth quarter, Virginia State extended its lead when Ray broke loose again, this time with a 14-yard touchdown run. Campbell’s extra point put the Trojans up 14-6 with 7:28 left in the game, and it seemed as though Virginia State was poised to close out the victory.

However, Winston-Salem State quickly responded in spectacular fashion. Less than 30 seconds after VSU’s touchdown, WSSU’s Timothy “TJ” Ruff powered his way through the Trojan defense for a 78-yard touchdown run. Ruff’s big play brought the Rams back to within two points, 14-12. Though WSSU missed the opportunity to tie the game with a two-point conversion, the Rams had life and a chance to win.

The Final Stand

With time winding down, the Rams marched down the field on a critical drive, setting up Lorenzana for a game-winning 20-yard field goal attempt with just three seconds left on the clock. Lorenzana, who had been perfect all night, calmly drilled the kick through the uprights, giving WSSU the 15-14 lead and silencing the Virginia State crowd.

The win marks a huge victory for Winston-Salem State, whose resilience and late-game heroics sealed their thrilling comeback. VSU’s strong rushing performance by Tylique Ray wasn’t enough, as the Rams held off the Trojans and pulled out a nail-biter on the road.

Key Players:

• Gilberto Lorenzana (WSSU): 3/3 on field goals, including the game-winner.
• Timothy “TJ” Ruff (WSSU): 78-yard rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter.
• Tylique Ray (VSU): Two rushing touchdowns, including a 14-yarder in the final quarter.

This win is a testament to Winston-Salem State’s never-give-up attitude and Lorenzana’s reliable leg, proving crucial in their narrow victory over Virginia State.

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“Never underestimate the heart of a Ram,” Massey said. “I think this helps the guys to see that they have the ability to stay cool, calm, and collected and continue to play.”

WSSU is now 2-1 overall as it prepares to face CIAA favorite Virginia State on Saturday. This is the first time it has gone over .500 since Massey took over as interim prior to the 2019 season. 

The transfer portal is one of the key aspects of the team’s early success this season. Two fall 2024 transfers are are Christian McDonald from North Carolina A&T, as well as Jamieson Alston who transferred from Saint Augustine University. Both players made big plays against Ohio Dominican and figure to be a big part of WSSU’s attack moving forward. 

“We’ve improved from a recruiting standpoint because of the portal,” Massey said. 

As the team continues to prepare for its next game the faith the coaches have in them helps them to get through practice.

“They believe in us and we don’t want that to go away,” Alston said. “It’s easier to go to practice at 5 am if you’re coming from a W.”

Alston had 10 tackles during the game in addition to a game-changing interception in overtime. He was named CIAA linebacker of the week for his effort. 

Practicing in a positive environment only helps to push the players to the next level while also staying level-headed.

“They never want to tear us down,” McDonald said. They want to encourage us to make plays.”

Meanwhile, the team continues to assess what is and what isn’t working for them.

“Defensively there are some things we got to clean up,” Massey continued. “Off the surface, those guys are doing what we asked the final round and getting other people to

make plays.” 

WSSU is headed to Rogers Stadium taking Virginia State University this week. Kickoff is at 1:00 pm and can be watched on HBCU Go.

-Story by Tia Greene

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Thursday afternoon, I received the call that no one wants to receive. I found out my father passed away less than a week after his 59th birthday. The loss was sudden and unexpected. 

My father introduced me to sports as a child. Being an athlete was not my life’s calling, but more important to him was making sure I went to college and had options in my life. He never went himself, but he made sure my two brothers and I knew he was serious about doing so. Eventually, after several frank conversations with me about what would happen if I didn’t take school seriously, I managed to get accepted to a few colleges and chose to go to WSSU. That led me to finding my career path and eventually starting HBCU Gameday. 

If you are wondering what this has to do with WSSU or HBCU football — just keep reading.

The final two years of my father’s life were filled with doctors visits and limitations designed to help monitor his heart condition. It not only inhibited his ability to work — it also caused him to limit viewing of his beloved Dallas Cowboys. His heart couldn’t take too much of it. It was sobering. But with newfound time on his hands, he was able to consume the content from HBCU Gameday in a way he hadn’t before. Whether he was letting me know he saw something someone had said negatively about myself and Gameday or texting me and telling me to fix my glasses in my video because they were crooked, I knew he saw me in a way that all children want to be seen by their fathers. 

And suddenly, he was gone. 

I decided that I would do what my father would want me to do on Saturday — keep living and doing what I love. So I went to Bowman Gray Stadium to cover WSSU as it took on a Division II PWI from Ohio. I rode with my good friend, Alonzo Turner, who I met while attending WSSU. The friendship of he and so many others have been particularly vital.

Even before I entered the stadium, I was greeted with a heartfelt hug and kind words from Etienne Thomas, the Director of Athletics at WSSU. From there, everywhere I turned I was showered with love, condolences and kind words from those who knew of my recent loss. It confirmed what I already knew: that I have an awesome family (or Ramily, as we call ourselves) that cares about me and for me in a way that is distinctly HBCU. 

It continued on the field in the pregame. I accepted all of the love, and prepared to take in one of my favorite things — a night game at Bowman Gray Stadium.

WSSU got off to a hot start, going up 7-0 on its first drive, and taking a 10-0 lead into halftime.

I did my best to stay focused on the game, though my mind did drift to my father and my new reality at times. But I enjoyed all the things that come with a game at Bowman Gray — the thumping beats of the Red Sea of Sound, the elegance of Scarlet Lace, the stomp-and-shake of the WSSU Powerhouse and the orchestration of it all through PA announcer extrodinare B Daht. 

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Massey assigned himself the blame for the loss — pointing to a play with just over two minutes left in the first half that he felt changed the course of the game. 

“We tried to score — tried to go down and score. We took a shot instead of just running and getting to the half. That allowed them to get that timeout and they put that 53, 52 yard field goal on us. That hurt us. That’s my fault. So that’s why I told the guys that’s my fault. Moving forward — I’ve got to make better decisions.

Saturday’s game against North Carolina A&T was the first meeting between the two programs in 14 years, and it lived up to its billing. The sell-out crowd at Truist Stadium witnessed a compelling and entertaining game despite the difference in NCAA Divisions. Massey said he wasn’t not surprised.

“You can throw the divisions out the window, throw out all that simply because in this case right down the street 30 minutes or less until there’s a lot of guys that played against each other in high school — that were teammates — so they know each other well,” Massey said. “So that makes for a real good rivalry. I don’t know if we’ll get the opportunity to play again. I hope, but, I thought we put ourselves in position and we played well enough to win. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen.”

WSSU defensive back Merari Jewsome said the team definitely felt off the energy of the crowd. 

“Honestly — the atmosphere was like one of a kind. Never experienced anything like that before,” he said. “And you could feel the support in the stands. It was it was amazing, to be honest.”

WSSU will make its home debut on Saturday taking on Ohio Dominican in the return game of a home-and-home series with the Divsion II program. While there won’t be 21k plus fans in Bowman Gray Stadium on Saturday, WSSU is hoping to have an enthusiastic crowd behind it on Saturday. 

“That crowd over at A&T was a real good crowd,” Massey said. “But we expect to have that type of crowd consistently, because we’ve put together a pretty good program right now coach.”

Ohio Dominican is 1-0 after a 21-14 win over Seton Hill last week. ODU won last season’s game 26-14 in Columbus, OH. Massey talked about the word ‘redemption.’

“To use that word — I don’t know. But yes, we need to redeem ourself against a good football team. And it makes a statement for us in terms of the direction we’re going if we can win that game.”

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“I know some people might look at it and say, well, you guys were supposed to win,” Brown told the crowd. “In college football, there are no givens. There are no givens. Just ask Marcus Freeman and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish who lost in Northern Illinois this weekend. There are no givens. Each and every week you have to come out and play your absolute best.”

Brown acknowledged that his team didn’t quite play its best, but it did show composure and resilience in fighting back from a late deficit to turn the tide of the game. 

“I am so proud of our players and the way they fought back. It would have been very easy to get down on themselves when Winston scored late in the fourth quarter to take the lead. But our kids maintained their composure. We knew we had put countless hours into preparing for a two minute situation. as that ended up playing out.”

NC A&T finished the game with 408 yards of total offense, but WSSU averaged 5.3 yards per carry themselves and stopped its Division I rival on the one-yard line to shift momentum in its favor for a time. Brown says WSSU came ready to play, and made his team battle. 

“This is a long rivalry game. A long and storied rivalry. And so, you gotta give Winston-Salem State credit,” Brown said. “They came out amped up and really well prepared and gave us all we could handle there.”

The win was the first at home for Brown since taking over the NC A&T program prior to the 2023 season and just the second overall in 13 games. 

“But you know, the lessons for us is that there’s going to be these ebbs and flow and you can’t lose your composure,” Brown said. “And like I said to the players yesterday, big time players make big time plays in big time moments. And so we had some kids to step up and make plays at the right time.”

NC A&T will look to build off that momentum when it returns home to face a powerful Delaware program. The school is in its final season in the CAA as it prepares to make the jump to the FBS. 

“It’s always good to be able to come back here and play. We got great fans. We’ve got great fan support — it’s a great environment here,” Brown said. “You don’t have the logistical hurdles of traveling — getting on busses and riding up to Delaware. It’s a pretty lengthy bus ride. It’s nice that we don’t have to deal with that. We can relax and just kind of focus on preparing to play.”

The Aggies had a few key players leave the game against the Rams with injuries. Karon Prunty, an All-CAA cornerback and potential All-American went down late in the fourth quarter with neck soreness, but Brown says he’s doing better and is expected to play against Delaware. Running back Kenji Christian went out with a lower-leg injury. Brown said he’s not sure of his status at this point.

Kickoff against Delaware is scheduled for 1 PM on Saturday at Truist Stadium.

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“Aggies married Eagles. Eagles married Aggies. Rams married Aggies and Eagles and so on and so forth. We do this every year, and I’m glad to see this rivalry (WSSU-NCAT) come back. In my opinion, has been far too long. But we’re here. We’re gonna enjoy it. We’re gonna have a big reunion today and we hope we can continue.”

The Baines Household was one of several “houses divided” with the first game between the two Piedmont Triad HBCUs. Novella Baines proudly wore her North Carolina A&T shirt while Rodney wore his red and black shirt supporting his HBCU — WSSU.

“We’re still a couple,” Novella said with a grin.

“S-U,” Rodney barked out. 

The two HBCUs were founded one year apart. The Morrill Act of 1890 set into motion the creation of what would become North Carolina A&T. Established as an annex of Shaw University, there was a bid by Winston to land the “Colored A&M” school with Simon Green Atkins proposed as its first president. The Land Grant was eventually given to Greensboro in 1892, and John Crosby was named its president. Months later, Atkins and his wife Oleana, established Slater Industrial Academy — bringing education to the area without the help of the federal government. 

And so the two schools, separated by 30 miles, began their journeys to the present. North Carolina A&T became the state’s institution for practical agriculture and the mechanic arts, funded by the federal government with a larger male enrollment. Slater Industrial eventually became Winston-Salem Teacher’s College, drawing a decidedly larger population of young women as it focused on elementary education. As such, sports began to compete near the turn of the century at A&T, including football. WSTC — Teacher’s College or just “TC” as it was known — was more known for women’s basketball in the 1930s, though its men’s basketball program was around as well.

WSTC introduced football in 1940, and had a one-off game against A&T four years later. The series began in earnest in 1954 and NC A&T won every matchup until it left the CIAA to form the MEAC after 1970. The series was dormant for much of the decade, but resumed in 1977 when Bill Hayes led WSSU to its first win in the series. Since then the two teams have had a competitive rivalry on the field despite the difference in NCAA classification for much of that time. WSSU won three games in a five-year span in a Division I attempt before the rivalry was shelved after the 2010 game.

Saturday’s game was another highly entertaining, highly competitive matchup between the two programs. NC A&T trailed by three late in the fourth quarter but kicked a field goal to force overtime and come up with a 27-20 win over its D2 HBCU rival.

The fans and the bands of each school competed against each other until the end of overtime, just as the players on the field did. It was quite apparent —from start to finish —that nearly a decade-and-a-half absence hadn’t doused the fires of two schools whose roots run parallel and whose branches often intersect. 

“It’s an overdue thing. Because this right here — was rivalry back in the day,” Rodney Baines said. “And it’s good for both schools.”

Some things never change.

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First Half

WSSU took the early lead in the first quarter behind a Timothy Ruff 14 yard touchdown run. The PAT was no good. The Aggies responded with a 9 play 66 yard drive capped off with a Kevin White one yard touchdown run.

NCAT would add a field goal as time expired in the second quarter to go into halftime with a 10-6 lead.

Second Half

Late in the third quarter the Aggies pieced together an 8 play 30 yard drive with White finding Laquan Veney for a 5 yard touchdown to make it 17-6, NCAT. But Winston-Salem State wasn’t deterred, Trevon Hester ran in a 37 yard touchdown with 38 seconds left in the third quarter to cut the lead down to 17-13.

In the fourth quarter Daylin Lee put the Rams back on top with a three yard touchdown run, making the score 20-17 with 3:52 remaining in the game. But NCAT responded on the ensuing drive with a 15 play 61 yard drive that ended with Andrew Brown booting a 31 yard field goal as time expired to tie the game at 20, forcing overtime.

Overtime

In the overtime period, North Carolina A&T seized the moment. The Aggies executed a critical drive that culminated in a 7-yard touchdown pass from Kevin White to Laquan Veney. With the successful extra point by Andrew Brown, North Carolina A&T took a 27-20 lead.

Winston-Salem had one final chance to respond but was unable to break through North Carolina A&T’s resolute defense. The game concluded with North Carolina A&T securing a hard-fought 27-20 victory.

Key Performances

North Carolina A&T: Kevin White was instrumental, throwing for 157 yards and a touchdown while also contributing with a key 7-yard touchdown pass in overtime. Wesley Graves led the rushing attack with 106 yards and a touchdown, and Andrew Brown’s crucial field goals proved to be decisive. The Aggies’ defense, particularly in overtime, played a pivotal role in their victory.

Winston-Salem State: Trevon Hester was a standout performer with 79 rushing yards and one touchdown, including a key score that tied the game late. Daylin Lee passed for 122 yards but couldn’t find the end zone, while the Rams’ defense kept them in the game until the final moments.

Final Thoughts

The game was a testament to both teams’ grit and determination. North Carolina A&T’s ability to capitalize on key opportunities, particularly in overtime, secured their win. WSSU’s valiant effort and resilient performance were noteworthy, but they fell just short in the dramatic final moments. Fans witnessed a memorable game filled with intensity, skill, and high drama, leaving no doubt about the competitiveness and excitement of HBCU football.

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“North Carolina A&T State University is excited to announce that the highly-anticipated opening night game against Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) on September 7th is officially sold out,” the school said in a release. “Excitement and Aggie Pride are at an all-time high as fans gear up for the first meeting between these two old-school rivals – the A&T Aggies and the WSSU Rams – in 14 years.”

This will be the second game of the 2024 season to sell out for NC A&T. Its homecoming matchup against Hampton sold out, as it has for decades. 

Non-homecoming sellouts are a bit more rare. It had only happened four times since the year 2000 prior to this matchup, with three of those sellouts coming from WSSU visits to East Greensboro. 

The 2006, 2008 and 2010 games in the series all sold out as WSSU attempted to move to Division I-AA and join the MEAC. The only other non-homecoming sellout came against arch-nemesis North Carolina Central in 2017.  

The rivalry between North Carolina A&T and Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is one of the most storied and intense in HBCU sports. Dating back to their first meeting in 1944, the two schools, located just 30 minutes apart, have faced off numerous times in football. This rivalry is not just about proximity but also a deep-seated competition that has shaped the athletic identities of both institutions.

North Carolina A&T leads the series with a commanding 36-12 record. However, WSSU has had its moments of triumph, including the last time the teams met in 2010 when the Rams defeated the Aggies 21-14 in Greensboro. This victory added fuel to the rivalry even though the two schools play on two different levels. 

NC A&T lost its opener to Wake Forest 45-13 in Winston-Salem. WSSU won its opener, defeating CIAA foe Bluefield State 34-3 on the road.

Saturday’s game will be streamed live on FloSports.com. It will also be broadcast in the Winston-Salem and Greensboro areas on My48.

The post North Carolina A&T, WSSU officially sold out appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Rams’ road to preparing for this game has not come without many obstacles. 

At Bluefield State, WSSU faced a two-hour delay due to a thunderstorm. But playing on a wet, windy field it still managed to hold Bluefield State to 107 passing yards and 45 rushing yards and coming up with a 34-3 win.

NC A&T is a Division I school while Winston-Salem State University is a Division II school. WSSU has about 28 scholarships while North Carolina A&T has 63.

Senior defensive back Justin Fleming, junior transfer defensive lineman Jaylin Norris, senior defensive end Camar Kyle and senior offensive lineman Darius McDuffie were picked to the ALL-CIAA Preseason team this year.

WSSU has 11 players from Greensboro on its team and NC A&T has three players on its roster from Winston-Salem. Fleming and Keith Quick are both Southeast Guilford. 

One of the most intriguing aspects of this rivalry is that Bill Hayes is the former head coach of the Rams and Aggies. Hayes spent 12 years coaching the Rams and 15 years coaching the Aggies. 

For WSSU, this game is more than just a game. It is about proving how hard the team has worked, and that it are a force to be reckoned with. 

WSSU sophomore Alaina Moody expressed her enthusiasm for the game. 

“I’m really excited it’s been a while since we’ve played a good rival,” said Moody. “I am going to the game cheering the Rams on.”

WSSU 2015 alumna and present Silky flag coach India Page says being the flag coach and alum will give her a unique perspective on how the game will go for her.

“We haven’t played A&T since 2010 so this game will be intriguing,” said Page. 

Around 20,000 fans are expected to be in attendance. Kickoff is at 7:00 pm in Truist Stadium. The game will be streamed live on Flo Sports and will be televised locally on MY48.

– Story By WSSU student Tia Greene

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