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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Flea in the Mountains

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

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

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

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

HBCU Coaching Stripes

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

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

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

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

Harrell earned his degree in Marketing from Howard in 1994. 

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

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

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

Record Breakers

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

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

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

Nationwide Attention

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Marquee Coaches

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

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

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

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

Bob Reed Field

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

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

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

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

DOGE Delay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SportsCenter Prequel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Moore is currently in the transfer portal.

 
The Lou Henson award honors the former Illinois and New Mexico State head coach who won 775 games in 41 seasons.
 
Coach Henson is the winningest coach in Illinois basketball history with 423 victories. During his 21 seasons (1975-1996), Henson led the Fighting Illini to 16 postseason appearances, including 12 NCAA tournaments and a Final Four appearance in 1989.
 
For complete coverage of Norfolk State Athletics, please follow the Spartans on social media at @nsuspartans (X), /NorfolkStateAthletics (Facebook), @NSUAthletics (Instagram), @nsuathletics (YouTube) or visit the official home of Norfolk State Athletics at nsuspartans.com.

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SAN ANTONIO, TX– Norfolk State’s Larry Vickers is the recipient of the 2025 Kay Yow National Coach of the Year award. The award is presented annually to the top head coach in Women’s Division I college basketball. Someone who embodies a winning spirit while displaying great character on and off the court. Vickers led the Spartans to a 30-5 (14-0 MEAC) record this season and earned the HBCU program’s highest-ever No. 13 seed in the NCAA Tournament.

Norfolk State became just the eighth team in MEAC history to go undefeated in conference play. The Spartans also made a mark on the non-conference slate. With the HBCU taking down two SEC opponents in Auburn and Missouri.

“The former walk-on at Norfolk State, who spent five seasons as assistant with the men’s program, completely turned around the women’s basketball at Norfolk State,” said Angela Lento, Vice President of CollegeInsider.com. “Larry Vickers took over a program that had just two winning seasons and turned it into one of the top programs in women’s college basketball. With a foundation built on hard work, discipline and good old fashion defense, there are a lot more wins in his future.”

A Banner Year

NSU, which cracked the CollegeInsider.com Mid-Major Top 25 poll for the first time in program history on Nov. 30, 2022, finished the regular season ranked No. 4. That’s the highest-ever ranking for an HBCU program, men or women.

Vickers received MEAC Coach of the Year honors for the third consecutive season. Becoming the second MEAC women’s basketball coach to receive the honor in three straight years.

Larry Vickers spent 10 overall and nine full seasons as the head coach of the NSU women’s basketball team. Producing a 177-99 record with a 97-41 mark in MEAC play. He led Norfolk State to three consecutive MEAC Tournament titles (2023, 2024, 2025) and four consecutive regular season championships (2022, 2023, 2024, 2025).

Prior to taking over the women’s program, Vickers spent eight seasons as an assistant coach with the men’s basketball program. He served the last three as the associate head coach.

About Kay Yow

CollegeInsider.com pays tribute to one of the true icons of women’s college basketball with the Kay Yow Award.

Yow became the sixth head coach in the history of Division I women’s basketball to reach the 700-win plateau. Finishing with a sterling record of 737–344 in her 34 seasons at NC State.

She was the first women’s coach in ACC history to eclipse 600 wins at the same school and directed NC State to 19 top-three finishes in the ACC standings. Her 1997-98 squad advanced all the way to the Final Four in Kansas City.

She was wildly successful in every forum in which she coached. Leading gold medal winners at the 1981 World University Games, the 1986 Goodwill Games, 1986 World Championship Games and the 1988 Olympic Games.

As an assistant, Yow was on the Olympic gold medal winning 1984 coaching staff in Los Angeles. In addition, she was an assistant on the gold medal-winning teams at the 1979 World University Games, the 1983 Pan American Games and the 1984 R. Williams Jones Cup.

Coach Yow had been on a leave of absence from coaching since early January 2009 because of her battle with cancer. She passed away from stage 4 breast cancer on January 24, 2009.

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On September 6, the Spartans host Virginia State University in the annual “Battle of the States,” a rivalry game that promises intense action and local pride. The following week, on September 13, Norfolk State faces a challenging away game against Rutgers University, providing an opportunity to compete against a Big Ten opponent.

Returning home on September 20, Michael Vick and the Spartans take on Sacred Heart University, aiming to capitalize on their home-field advantage. The team then embarks on a series of away games, starting with Wagner College on September 27. October 4 marks the “Battle of the Bay” against Hampton University, a storied rivalry that always draws significant attention. The road stretch continues with a game at Wofford College on October 11.

After a bye week, the Spartans celebrate Homecoming on October 25, hosting South Carolina State University—a game that is sure to draw alumni and fans for a festive weekend. The team then faces consecutive away games against Delaware State University on November 1 and North Carolina Central University on November 8.

The final home game of the HBCU football season is on November 15 against Morgan State University, providing fans one last opportunity to support the team at William “Dick” Price Stadium. The regular season concludes with an away game at Howard University on November 22.

With a balanced mix of home and away games, including traditional rivalries and challenging non-conference matchups, the 2025 season offers NSU numerous opportunities to showcase their talent and resilience on the field.

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This season, Ings averaged 12.1 points, 3.2 assists, and 2.1 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 48.9% from the field and 47.3% from deep. He helped lead the Spartans to their fourth MEAC Tournament title, scoring a team-best 16 points in the championship game.

Now, he’s one of just six players selected to compete in the slam dunk contest. Ings will represent the HBCU community on one of college basketball’s biggest stages, held this year at the Frost Bank Center—home of the San Antonio Spurs.

HBCU athletes continue to prove they belong in the national spotlight, and Ings’ invitation to this elite competition is another proud moment for the culture. From viral highlights to ESPN’s main stage, Christian Ings is ready to show the world what HBCU basketball is all about.

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NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State director of athletics Dr. Melody Webb has announced that head men’s basketball coach Robert Jones’ contract has been extended through the 2031-32 HBCU basketball season.
 
“We are ecstatic to announce this contract extension for men’s basketball head coach Robert Jones,” Webb said. “Coach Jones has been a part of every historic milestone this program has accomplished at the Division I level, building a winning culture that stands alone at the top of the MEAC. I am confident that this team will not only maintain the prestigious standard that Coach Jones has set in place but continue to grow and reach unprecedented heights.”
 
Accumulating over 230 wins across 12 seasons as the head coach of the Norfolk State men’s basketball program, Jones has guided the Spartans to their greatest run of the team’s Division I era. Most recently, NSU defeated South Carolina State 66-65 to win the 2025 MEAC Tournament Championship and advance into the NCAA Tournament.
 
“With success comes suitors, but I’m happy to be a Spartan,” Jones said. “Thank you to Dr. J and AD Webb for their continued support. Also, thank you to Spartan Nation for their unwavering desire to keep making this program great. Let’s do it again next year! BEHOLD!”
 
Three of the Spartans’ four MEAC Tournament titles have come during Jones head coaching tenure, and the other (2011-12) came while Jones served as the team’s associate head coach. Norfolk State has won five MEAC Regular Season crowns under Jones, owning a record of 135-45 in league play during his time at the helm.

Coach Jones Accolades

 
Jones continues to rack up team and individual accolades while representing Norfolk State in HBCU basketball. CollegeInsider.com named him a finalist for three prestigious accolades this season – the Hugh Durham, Ben Jobe, and Skip Prosser Man of the Year awards. He also earned MEAC Tournament Most Outstanding Coach honors following the victory over SCSU.
 
Jones led Norfolk State to its first nonconference postseason championship in the program’s Division I history in the 2023-24 season, defeating Purdue Fort Wayne 75-67 in the CollegeInsider.com Tournament (CIT) championship game. Christian Ings earned MVP honors for the event, helping the Spartans erase an 18-point deficit in the championship showdown.
 
Jones has been a frequent finalist for the Hugh Durham Award, winning the accolade in 2022. The Hugh Durham Award is presented annually to the top mid-major coach in college basketball.
 
Jones has received the MEAC Coach of the Year award three times—2019, 2022, and 2024—as well as the BOXTOROW HBCU Coach of the Year award in 2022 and 2024.

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Shortly after Norfolk State guard Brian Moore Jr. announced he was hitting the transfer portal on Tuesday, WAVY New’s James Kattato  posted an interview where Jones compared the state of mid-major college basketball to community college. 

“This is now a glorified JUCO. This is like Norfolk State Community College,” Jones said in the interview. “And when I say that, not because of the people or anything like that — but it’s just the way it is. JUCO coaches, I have so much more respect for them these days, because they have to get a new team every year/every two years. Now we gotta get a a new team every year/every too so we’re basically a glorifed JUCO.”

Moore came to Norfolk State from Murray State where he was a part-time starter during the 2023-2024 season averaging 9.2 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. He was named first-team All-MEAC after averaging 19 points during the regular season before helping NSU win the MEAC Tournament a week later. He’s not alone — only one player eligible to return from the three MEAC All-Conference programs hasn’t hit the portal in the first few days. 

“Until mid-majors — and not just Norfolk State — get the money that high majors have, we’re never going to be able to keep kids for a long time. It’s easy to get ‘em but it’s hard to retain ‘em. You can get them because there’s a lot of kids that want the opportunities. But once they get the opportunity and they blow up, it’s hard to retain ‘em. Because now the big boys are going to come.”

Another example is former Norfolk State guard Jamarii Thomas. Thomas got inconsistent playing time at his first school — UNC-Wilmington. He transferred to the HBCU for the 2023-2024 season, had a breakout year and was named the MEAC Player of The Year. He hit the transfer portal following the season, first committing to VCU and ultimately landing in the SEC at South Carolina. 

Jones didn’t sound bitter in his comments, but he did express the feeling that many college basketball coaches in the HBCU and mid-major world are dealing with at the moment. 

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ORANGEBURG, SC – The South Carolina State (SC State) Athletics Department is mourning the passing of retired Hall of Fame HBCU basketball coach Lyman Foster. Foster, 76, died Monday evening at his Orangeburg residence. Arrangements will be announced later by Simmons Funeral Home and Crematory of Orangeburg.

“We are all saddened by the passing of Coach Lyman Foster,” SC State interim Athletics Director Oliver “Buddy” Pough said. “He was a part of the great athletic legacy here at SC State and will be missed. The University offers its condolences and support to his family and all who loved him. He was a great coach and an outstanding professor in the PE department. We ask prayers for the family from the community during this sad time.”

A Tuskegee, AL native, Foster began his SC State coaching career in 1974-1975 as an assistant to the late Willie Simon. When the University reinstated its women’s basketball program. As Simon’s assistant, he helped the Lady Bulldogs to 305 victories and just 93 losses during a 14-year stint (1974-1988). SC State became one of the most dominant women’s programs in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the nation during his tenure as Simon’s assistant.

Stellar Career

During the period, the Lady Bulldogs won five MEAC championships. Several AIAW (Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women) state and regional titles. Captured the AIAW Division II National Crown during the 1978-79 season, after finishing as the national runner-up the previous year. In 1982-1983, the HBCU earned a berth in the NCAA playoffs when the Lady Bulldogs defeated LaSalle 85-67 on the road to become the first HBCU team – men or women – to win an NCAA postseason tournament game.

Foster, who also served as a physical education professor at SC State. Succeeded Simon as head coach following the 1987-1988 campaign. He went on to compile a five-year (1988-1983) 79-68 record and won three MEAC crowns. In addition, he was the men’s golf coach for the Bulldogs for five seasons (1988-1993) and guided SC State to three National Minority Collegiate Golf titles and two runner-up finishes.

Hall of Famer

He was inducted into the SCSU Athletic Hall of Fame as an individual in 2004 after going in as a member of the AIAW National Championship Team in 2000.

The Alabama State graduate began his college coaching career at Coppin State in Baltimore, MD, as a men’s assistant for one season (1971-1972), before joining the Physical Education Department at SC State as an instructor.

Also, during a 13-year high school coaching career, which included stops at Scot’s Branch, Holly Hill-Roberts, and Orangeburg-Wilkinson, he won 270 games and reached the state championship finals three times. He later served three seasons (2012-2015) a volunteer assistant for the Claflin women’s team.

Foster earned a bachelor’s at Alabama State in 1970 and a master’s from Pittsburgh in 1971. He did further study at the University of Alabama,

He was a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. for over 50 years, a longtime basketball official in the Palmetto State, and a member of several coaching and community organizations. Foster is survived by his wife, Linda W. Foster of the home; two children: Shana and Sean; a granddaughter and other relatives and friends.

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That lone holdout? Toby Nnadozie, Coppin State’s standout defender and third-team all-conference pick. The league’s Defensive Player of the Year, Nnadozie transferred into Coppin from Maryland Eastern Shore and is now the only all-league player expected to return in 2025—if he stays.

The rest of the list reads like a farewell tour.

The first team was headlined by Howard’s Blake Harper, the conference’s Player of the Year and a former Rookie of the Year. He’s in the portal. Brian Moore Jr., who averaged over 19 points per game to lead Norfolk State, is also seeking new
opportunities. South Carolina State’s Drayton Jones rounds out the underclassmen leaving early from the first team.

The second team was hit just as hard. North Carolina Central’s leading scorer the past two seasons, Po’Boigh King, has declared for the portal. Delaware State’s Robert Smith, Morgan State’s Will Thomas, and Howard’s Marcus Dockery were all seniors, having played out their eligibility.

On the third team, Kaseem Watson of Delaware State and KC Shaw of Maryland Eastern Shore—who led his team in scoring, rebounding, and assists—have also hit the portal.

The only players not heading elsewhere are those who’ve exhausted their eligibility: guys like Martaz Robinson and Kameron Hobbs, both respected veterans who helped carry their programs through grueling conference schedules.

For the MEAC—and for HBCU basketball in general—this wave of departures is more than just the usual offseason shuffle. It’s a talent drain that underscores the growing gap between resource-limited HBCU programs and larger, well-funded schools offering more NIL support and national exposure.

With so much star power now exploring other options, the MEAC faces a challenging rebuild. The conference that once prided itself on continuity and development now finds itself in survival mode—trying to hold on to the few rising stars it still has.

And right now, that list begins and ends with Toby Nnadozie.

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Vickers, who spent 23 years at Norfolk State as a student-athlete, assistant coach and head coach, led the Spartans to three consecutive conference championships, NCAA Tournament appearances and a 30-win season this year. Now, he’s taking his defensive-minded approach to the Southeastern Conference, eager to make his mark at a Power Four program.

“Auburn was a no-brainer because of the people, because of the staff,” Vickers said during his formal introduction Monday at the Woltosz Center. “We want to have quality people on our staff, and we’ll have quality people on our team.”

Vickers guided Norfolk State to a 63-57 victory over Auburn on Dec. 29, 2024, with his team outrebounding the Tigers by nine and grabbing 21 offensive rebounds. The Spartans’ trapping defense, a staple of Vickers’ system, forced 16 turnovers and held Auburn to 36.7-percent shooting.

Rebounding Formula

“We have a formula that works for us,” Vickers said. “We have a formula to rebound so we can take advantage of multiple mismatches.”

That defensive mindset, which propelled Norfolk State to the nation’s No. 1 scoring defense in 2022-23, and the top HBCU program this season, will be central to his approach at Auburn.

“I’m only sitting here because we hang our hat on defense,” Vickers said. “Our defenses have generally been nationally ranked. It’s a different level of guard across the board every night in the SEC, but we’ll have a different level of player too, executing that same vision and plan.”

Vickers’ connection to Auburn began when he stumbled across the Auburn Creed on YouTube.

“I believe in work, and hard work,” he said, quoting the Creed. “As y’all get to know my story, you’ll know I’m only here because of hard work. Hopefully, our hard work can lead to championships. Hopefully, our hard work can lead to that celebration of rolling Toomer’s Corner, and our hard work can lead to a 100-percent graduation rate.”

Recruiting will be key

Larry Vickers knows success at Auburn will require high-level recruiting and player development to compete in one of the nation’s most unforgiving conferences.

“What will my ideal Tiger look like? One, she’s going to have a lot of pride in the orange and blue from day one,” Vickers said. “She wants to have a sense of excellence. We know it’s going to be super tough, but we want to go into every year looking to go 31-0.”

Leaving Norfolk State wasn’t easy for Vickers, who transformed the Spartans’ program with a mix of discipline, passion and innovation. But the opportunity to lead Auburn was too good to pass up.

“That’s one thing I can promise,” Vickers said. “We’re going to work hard in the classroom. We’re going to work hard on the floor. I’m excited to bring that same commitment to Auburn.”

Before building a successful coaching career, Larry Vickers left his mark as a player at Norfolk State. A versatile forward, Vickers played for the Spartans from 2004 to 2008, first joining the team as a walk-on on his freshman year. Known for his toughness, high basketball IQ and leadership, Vickers averaged 4.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game as a senior. Vickers established his craft at an HBCU and will now have an opportunity to showcase what black college coaches can do on a larger stage.

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The Michael Vick era of Norfolk State football is off and running. The Spartans completed their first spring practice of 2025, marking an important milestone in Coach Vick’s HBCU football career on the sideline.

“It was great to be out here playing some football,” Vick said. “The players had a lot of energy; they were enthused. They were just ready to come out here and compete, and they did a real good job of that. We just have to keep getting better every day; that’s the message.” Attending the final stretch of the practice, media outlets received their first peak at some of the Spartans’ elite newcomers. Norfolk State bolstered its roster with 30 additions on National Signing Day, bringing in a healthy mix of prestigious transfers and local high school standouts.

Spartans speak

Offensive lineman Guan Price II, an offseason transfer from Hampton, said that his head coach has transitioned well as a leader. “Ultimately, he’s a football great,” Price said. “We have to respect him, but he’s made us feel like we’re family. He’s very welcoming, and he always takes time to talk to us.”

Linebacker Khalib Gilmore emphasized the Spartans’ step-by-step approach to building an HBCU football foundation. “It’s one day at a time for us,” Gilmore said. “We’re looking at it as quarters: we just finished our first quarter, spring training, getting into shape. Now we’re going into our second quarter. We’re not looking at anything ahead of this quarter.”
 
USF transfer quarterback Israel Carter felt right at home in his first spring practice with his new team. The California native poured in praise for his head coach, learning from one of the best athletes to ever play the position. “It’s everything a young quarterback wishes for,” Carter said. “I’m following his path; he led the way for us. All I’m trying to do is build off what he did and implement my game into that.
 
Michael Vick and the Spartans will hold 14 official practices leading up to the highly anticipated spring game, slated for Saturday, Apr. 19. Fans can purchase tickets to the event here or in-person at the NSU Ticket Office.

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Coppin State, the last of the four HBCU women’s basketball teams competing in the postseason tournament, lost to Cleveland State 72-70 in overtime. Angel Jones led the Eagles (19-15) in scoring, finishing with 27 points, followed by Cire Worley and a 10-rebound performance from Laila Lawrence.

While all of the HBCU programs—Alabama A&M, CSU, Howard, and Texas Southern—have been eliminated, three of the four schools won at least one game among the 48 teams competing in the event. Chattanooga defeated AAMU 53-49 in the first round of the WNIT tournament.

Coppin State

CSU defeated Colgate 58-48 on Saturday to advance to the second round. However, the Vikings ended the Eagles’ season on Tuesday with the victory. The Eagles finished the 2024-25 season at 19-15 overall. 

Howard

HU defeated Siena 72-62 behind a strong third-quarter performance from the Bison. Four Howard players notched double-figure point totals in the contest. Zeenia Thomas led the way for HU with 19 points, followed by Saniyah King with 16 points and five assists, while Kaiya Creek and Destiny Howell finished with 11 points, respectively.

However, Charleston defeated Howard 76-56 in the tournament’s second round. Thomas led all Bison scorers with a double-double performance, finishing with 15 points and 10 rebounds in the loss. Howell, HU’s second double-digit scorer, tallied 13 points in the contest. The Bison finished the 2024-25 campaign at 22-12 overall.

Texas Southern

TSU defeated Saint Mary’s 54-50 in the opening of the tournament. Tigers’ Aylasia Fantroy delivered a double-double performance, finishing with 16 points and 10 rebounds as well as four steals and three assists in the victory. Treasure Thompson finished one rebound shy of a double-double, totaling nine to go along with 10 points for TSU.

Louisiana Tech defeated TSU 71-64 on Monday in the second round of the tourney, despite committing 27 turnovers. Four TSU (17-16) players finished in double figures. Fantroy led the way with 16 points, followed by a double-double from Jaida Belton of 12 points and 11 rebounds, Daeja Holmes with 11 points, and Thompson rounding out the team’s double-digit scorers with 10 points.

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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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Harper’s decision to join Klutch Sports is another indication that his career is heading to the next level. The agency has gained a reputation for being player-focused, helping athletes secure lucrative contracts, endorsements, and business opportunities, which is exactly what Harper is aiming for. The announcement about his signing came out on X (formerly Twitter) on March 24, 2025, just hours after he entered the transfer portal. The quick turnaround raised questions about what this deal means for his future.

HBCU star freshman

Blake Harper became a star at Howard University during his freshman year. He won the MEAC Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year awards, proving himself to be one of the best college basketball players. His impressive scoring and playmaking skills got the attention of scouts and media.

HBCU Gameday featured Harper in an article titled “College Basketball World Eyeing HBCU Star Freshman.” The piece highlighted how Harper became one of the most talked-about players in the nation. With so much interest, it became clear that he was likely to take his talents to the next level.

In an emotional moment after losing in the 2025 MEAC tournament, Harper said in the post-game Press conference that it wasn’t about money but more about finding the right fit.

With the NCAA allowing student-athletes to profit from their NIL, Klutch Sports provides services such as:

• Brand Deals & Endorsements – Negotiating sponsorships with major companies like Nike, Adidas, Gatorade, and more.
• Marketing & Public Relations – Helping athletes build their personal brands through social media, interviews, and public appearances.
• Financial Guidance – Advising on money management, investments, and long-term financial planning.
• Legal & Compliance Support – Ensuring NIL deals follow NCAA and state regulations.
• Career Development – Preparing athletes for potential pro careers and business ventures beyond sports.

Klutch’s strong network in professional sports and entertainment gives its NIL clients a competitive edge in maximizing their earning potential while still in college. Blake Harper’s relationship with Klutch will boost his profile as he decides about his next college hoops home.

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During a recent practice, Douglas, a Central State University legend and former first-round NFL draft pick, spoke to the Hornets about the importance of unity and discipline. His message was simple but powerful: “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

Douglas talked about his journey from a small Division II HBCU to becoming an NFL Pro Bowler. He explained that it all started with building a strong foundation and paying attention to the little things. He stressed that Delaware State’s players have a unique opportunity because they have good coaches with NFL experience guiding them.

Words from a pro

“It’s like building a house,” Douglas told the team. “You start with the foundation. This is the foundation. And then you build from there.”

Douglas didn’t hold back about what he saw during practice. He noticed players yelling and pointing fingers when things went wrong. That, he said, was not the way to grow. Instead, he urged them to pick each other up, pat each other on the back, and get ready for the next play.

“You all are brothers. Every dude you see out here right now, you’re gonna walk with them for the rest of your life,” he said. “Pick each other up, man. If you don’t hear nothing else I say today, listen to that.”

Douglas made sure to emphasize that success doesn’t come from shortcuts. “You can’t cut corners and expect to be great,” he added. “The NFL is watching, and they want to see players who are disciplined, committed, and willing to put in the work.”

He also reminded the Hornets about the importance of staying focused on the big picture. “This is just the beginning,” he said. “You’ve got good coaches, you’ve got talent, and you’ve got a chance to be special. But it starts with the details.”

Douglas’s speech wasn’t just motivational—it was a blueprint for success. His journey from Division II HBCU Central State to the NFL showed Delaware State’s players that their dreams are possible if they work hard and stay disciplined. And with DeSean Jackson at the helm, the Hornets are putting in the work to lay a solid foundation.

The team still has a long way to go, but the message was clear: Building something special starts with unity and discipline. If the Hornets can master that, the sky’s the limit.

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Wheeler, who goes by “Meme” averaged 17.6 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.6 blocks, 1.6 steals, and 1.5 assists on 225-of-450 (50.0 percent) shooting from the field and was named All-MEAC First Team MEAC, MEAC All-Defensive Team and MEAC All-Tournament Team as NSU repeated as MEAC tournament champion. She followed that up with another big year during the 2024-2025 season as she averaged 15.8 points and 8.9 rebounds per game as NSU again won the title. 

Richardson helped NSU win its last two MEAC titles, averaging starting 21 of the 66 games she played in over the past two seasons — including 17 this season. The 2023-2024 MEAC All-Rookie team selection averaged 8.4 points per game in her two seasons.

These transfer portal announcements come on the heels of Norfolk State head coach Larry Vickers taking the Auburn head coaching job following the HBCU’s loss to Maryland in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Saturday. 

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The practice was loud and intense, with coaches and players fully locked in. It was the kind of energy that Delaware State football hasn’t seen in a long time. Jackson, known for his electrifying playmaking ability during his NFL career, is now trying to transfer that to the Hornets’ football program.

Culture is changing

“I like the energy so far. You can see a lot of guys that are hungry for change, and the culture is changing,” Jackson said. “It’s just breaking old habits. A lot of guys are used to it being a certain way in past years. I don’t continue to try to talk about the past, but we have to address the elephant in the room. Guys are holding themselves accountable. They’re being asked to do things they’ve never done before.”

DeSean Jackson is fully embracing his new role in HBCU football, even if the transition from player to coach comes with challenges. He acknowledges that one of the biggest challenges is just getting used to everything involved in coaching.

“The biggest challenge I think for me is just getting acclimated with everything… Just not letting it be overwhelming.” Jackson seems determined to take things one step at a time, learning as he goes and keeping his passion for the game alive. “I wake up every day, and I love it, I enjoy it, I never thought being a player and playing all these years that I would be a head coach. But, you know, so far so good. I’m waking up rejuvenated and just giving back to these young men.”

The first open practice featured some explosive moments, particularly from HBCU transfer Kobe Boykin, out of Jackson State, and returning player Marqui Gillis. Boykin and Gillis both showed flashes of their potential. Jackson praised their efforts, saying, “Kobe Boykin showed up and showed out. Marqui Gillis is doing a great job. We’ve got talent here to work with.”

Speed and unpredictability

Jackson’s offensive philosophy, guided by offensive coordinator Nemo Washington, is built around speed and unpredictability. “He’s going to catch a lot of defenses off guard. I think we’ll score a lot of points; we’ll have a lot of yards. The biggest thing is keeping defenses off guard,” Jackson said.

One interesting twist during the practice was the fact that players were practicing without numbers on their jerseys. That made it difficult to identify players, but the energy and effort were unmistakable.

Earlier in the week, the Delaware State team also heard from motivational speaker Inky Johnson and NFL star Hugh Douglas before practice. Johnson is known for his powerful messages of perseverance and leadership. Hugh Douglas, a Central State University legend and former Philadelphia Eagle, brought his own words of encouragement to the team as a former HBCU player himself.

Jackson’s commitment to building a strong team culture is clear. He understands that discipline and passion must go hand in hand. “Allowing the players to be their self… You gotta manage them as well too because they’re young men. So, at times they get out of hand, but you like the passion.” His approach encourages players to be themselves while maintaining control and accountability.

While DeSean Jackson acknowledges there is still a lot of work to be done, he remains optimistic about the future. “Today was the first day we moved in the right direction. Every day you’re going to build, but I think today we really took a step. The offense made some big plays, but defensively, we still have work to do.”

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AUBURN, Ala.—Larry Vickers, who has spent the past decade at Norfolk State leading the HBCU women’s basketball program to unprecedented heights, including three consecutive conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Has been named Auburn’s head women’s basketball coach, Athletics Director John Cohen announced Sunday. An 18-year coaching veteran, Vickers also spent eight years as a men’s assistant and associate head coach for the Spartans.

Since he took over, the program has achieved its most successful run in its Division I era. Posting a 177-99 record, including an 83-18 mark over the last three seasons. Prior to Vickers’ arrival, NSU finished with a winning record overall just three times. During last four years, his teams have had a 49-7 conference record, winning four regular season MEAC titles, along with three conference tournament titles. Combined with his time on the men’s staff, Vickers has been a part of nine conference championships at Norfolk State.

One name continually rose to the top

“Throughout the search process, one name continually rose to the top – Larry Vickers,” Cohen said. “Coach Vickers has an incredible technical understanding of women’s basketball. He demands excellence from his student-athletes, while fostering an environment for young women to succeed. His understanding of the new landscape of college athletics is impressive. No one has worked harder for an opportunity like this than Coach Vickers. I am excited to welcome LV, Charisse, and their family to the Plains.”

This season, Vickers led the HBCU to a program-record 30 wins, a perfect conference record and the MEAC regular season and tournament titles. The Spartans, who were undefeated in conference play, won 19 consecutive games entering the NCAA Tournament with the winning streak starting in late December with a victory at Auburn. Vickers also led the Spartans to a win at Missouri in November.

Words from coach

“I want to thank President Roberts, John Cohen and the entire search committee for this incredible opportunity to lead the Auburn women’s basketball program,” Vickers said. “Auburn is a great institution with one of the best athletics programs in the country. I am excited to get to work and help bring championship level success to our women’s basketball program. War Eagle!”

Vickers led Norfolk State to a then-Division I program-best 27-6 record and its second consecutive MEAC Tournament Championship in the 2023-24 season. NSU advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the third time in school history and went 13-1 in MEAC play, winning the conference regular season title as well.

Vickers earned his second MEAC Coach of the Year recognition while coaching the MEAC Player of the Year and HBCU Player of the Year Kierra Wheeler and MEAC Newcomer of the Year Diamond Johnson. Additionally, Vickers coached one All-MEAC Second Team selection and two MEAC All-Rookie selections.

Read the full press release on Larry Vicker’s move from HBCU to the SEC HERE.

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WASHINGTON  – Junior forward Zennia Thomas (Cleveland) scored 13 of her game-high 19 points to lead four Bison in double figures as the Howard University women’s basketball team defeated Siena College, 72-62, in the first round of the Postseason Women’s National Invitational Tournament (WNIT) in Burr Gymnasium on the HBCU campus of Howard University.
 
The game was historic for the Bison, who registered their first WNIT win in school history. It was evident from the opening tip that both teams were a bit anxious as they traded missing layups and turned the ball over. Siena set the tone by extending a 20-17 lead at the end of one quarter into a 36-30 lead at intermission.
 
Siena (17-14) took the lead courtesy of the play of their all-conference selection, Teressa Seppala. Seppala led the way with 11 points, eight rebounds, and some dominance on the offensive glass (13 offensive rebounds) for second-shot opportunities. The Bison had trouble finding the range, missing 25-of-39 shots, including 2-of-13 from beyond the arc.
 
Howard made some adjustments on the defensive end, turning them over while resulting in an 11-0 run near the end of the third quarter. Thomas, who was named to the MEAC All-Tournament Team, fueled the drive with her quick post moves and soft mid-range jumpers.
 
Graduate forward Kaiya Creek (Seat Pleasant, Md.) came off the bench to score 11 points for her HBCU, six of them during a run when she hit back-to-back trey balls to help Howard close out the quarter with a 54-47 lead, heading into the fourth quarter. Siena was able to cut the lead to two points on three different occasions, but each time, Thomas and HBCU All-American guards Destiny Howell (Queens, N.Y.) and Saniyah King (Washington) had an answer.

 
Down the stretch, the Howard defense made key plays, including Thomas’ two steals and two blocks by junior forward Nile Miller (Haddonfield, N.J.). Thomas added seven rebounds to her stat sheet. King rebounded from a subpar tournament performance to score 16 points, five assists, and no turnovers. Howell contributed 11 points, five rebounds, and three assists in a solid all-around effort.
 
It must be noted that the Bison bench outscored their opponent 19-8, with Creek, senior guard Nyla Cooper (Fayetteville, N.C.), and sophomore guard Janyah Bohanon (Cleveland) combining for all of their bench points. Siena was led by Seppala with a double-double (17 points & 13 rebounds), Ahniiysha Jackon (17 points), and Anajah Brown with a double-double & 12 points & 13 rebounds).
 
Howard moves on to the next round of the Women’s National Invitational Tournament at the College of Charleston on Monday (March 24). Tipoff at 7 p.m.

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When Johnson — the youngest of six siblings — chose to bring her talents to Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference powerhouse Norfolk State University after two Power Four tenures at Rutgers as a freshman and two seasons at NC State. The people closest to her failed to visualize her plan.

“[People] didn’t think leaving a bigger school for a smaller one was the best idea,” the Spartans’ fifth-year guard told HBCU Gameday. “My mom [Dana Brooks] questioned if I should have left, too. … At the end of the day, this is my journey.  They’re not going to experience the stuff I’ve experienced.”

“I found my voice here.”

After Diamond Johnson helped Norfolk State secure a 68-56 win against Howard for the program’s third straight MEAC tournament championship on March 15, the program became one of nine Division-I teams to collect 30 wins this season. On Sunday, the NCAA selection committee awarded the Spartans the No. 13 seed in this year’s tourney field. As the No. 13 seed Norfolk State (30-4, 14-0 MEAC) prepares to face No. 4 seed Maryland (23-7, 13-5 Big Ten) in the first round of the Birmingham 2 region of women’s NCAA tournament on Saturday, Johnson sits at peace with her decision. Her aim is to extend the Spartans’ trail of magic in March.

NSU’s postseason spot marked the highest received by a men’s or women’s HBCU basketball program in the last 10 years and the second-highest seed obtained by an HBCU since the women’s tournament expanded in 1994. The 5-foot-5 playmaker is ready to display her prowess on the hardwood, and it remains unmatched despite no longer playing in a Power Four league.

“It’s been the greatest two years of my college basketball career [at NSU],” Johnson said. “I’m glad I chose to do something different because I wasn’t happy at my previous [two] schools. …I found my voice here. … I’m the underdog, and I love being the underdog.”

However, Johnson’s unconventional trek didn’t start when she decided to leave New Jersey, North Carolina, nor when she departed the Tar Heel State to take her talents to familiar scenery in Norfolk, Virginia, ahead of last season. The genesis of her sacrifice and unique path started as a teenager.

“One of the best players I’ve ever coached.”

Diamond Johnson, a Philadelphia native, electrified crowds when she played in the Boo Williams AAU Summer League for three years. “Boo” Williams, who has been coaching for four and half decades and also coached Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Allen Iverson, said there was never a question if Johnson would be a special player. His only critique of Johnson was that she gained more height.

“She’s one of the best players I’ve ever coached,” Williams told HBCU Gameday. “She can score on all three levels. … She has that toughness and the game of an old-school basketball player from playing with boys in the playgrounds. Kids don’t do that as much anymore.”

After playing under Williams’ tutelage, Johnson started her high school career at Phoebus in Hampton, Virginia, a roughly 40-minute car ride from Norfolk. She averaged an impressive 31 points per game in two seasons at the public school. Amid her sophomore campaign, Johnson transferred to Neumann-Goretti — a private Catholic high school in south Philadelphia — to be closer to her father, James, who later died from complications from a stroke and other ailments.

By then, a five-star recruit, Diamond Johnson made an even bigger name for herself at Neumann-Goretti. She led the program to consecutive Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association Class 3A championships and earned back-to-back Pennsylvania Gatorade Player of the Year honors. Johnson solidified herself as one of the best players in the country alongside the likes of UConn’s Paige Bueckers, WNBA Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark, and Chicago Sky’s Angel Reese. Her pedigree was unmatched.

“Going to Philadelphia helped with that,” Williams said. “She prided herself on studying the game, and her work ethic was relentless.”

“This was the perfect spot for me”

She started her college career playing for one of women’s college basketball’s most illustrious coaches, C. Vivian Stringer, at Rutgers. However, Johnson wasn’t satisfied despite earning all-freshman Big Ten honors and second-team All-Big Ten recognition. Diamond Johnson took her talents to NC State. 

There, she became the 2022 ACC Sixth Woman of the Year as a sophomore before earning second-team All-ACC honors her junior season, one where she averaged 12.3 points while shooting 41.6% from the floor, 4.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists in 22 games due to an ankle injury.

Still, following her junior season, Johnson entered the transfer portal again. This time, NSU and how Spartans head coach Larry Vickers orchestrated the program piqued her interest. Norfolk State was a team coming off its first MEAC tournament championship and first NCAA tourney appearance since 2002. The Spartans possessed the championship mindset and was losing some fifth-year players following that season.

After lots of prayer, Johnson accepted the challenge to return close to home and play for NSU. She was already familiar with the Spartans’ facility from working out there when COVID-19 shut down the sports landscape. Since joining the program, Johnson has never looked back.

“The offense [the Spartans] ran to [Coach Vickers] and the coaching staff trusting me and pushing me because they know I have WNBA aspirations. This was the perfect spot for me,” Johnson said.

As much as Johnson wanted to play for NSU, Vickers was thrilled to have her at the HBCU program.

“She’s been gifted all her life. I’ve just tried to help her fine-tune things as a player and prepare her for the WNBA.”

“We don’t get Diamond [Johnson] if we were not a good basketball team,” Vickers told HBCU Gameday. “She spent hours researching us [Spartans] and watching the film more than any player I’ve ever recruited. … She’s been gifted all her life. I’ve just tried to help her fine-tune things as a player and prepare her for the WNBA.”

Johnson is the only active D-I women’s basketball player with at least 2,000 points, 600 rebounds, 390 assists, and 300 steals. However, to Johnson, her stats are second to the success of one of the most dominant HBCU women’s basketball programs. She averages 19.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 3.7 steals while shooting 47.2% from the floor per contest this season.

“The only reason she doesn’t score over 20 points is her unselfishness,” Vickers said. “…That speaks to the locker room we have here. … She’s the highest-rated player we’ve ever had in the program. She earned the respect of her teammates and constantly leads by example.”

When she joined NSU before the 2023-24 season, she started a note in her old iPhone 13, typing a list of goals she wanted to accomplish while donning a green, gold, and gray uniform. Her aspirations included winning multiple MEAC regular season and tournament championships, defeating a Power Four program and shocking the world with a women’s NCAA tournament win.

This season, NSU upset two Power Four programs — Auburn and Missouri — never lost consecutive games and joined South Carolina, UCLA, UConn, Texas, TCU, Florida Gulf Coast, Grand Canyon, and Montana State as the only teams to have 30 wins before the start of the tournament. The only thing left to clear in her phone is a tournament victory that the Spartans could bring to fruition on the court inside the Xfinity Center. 

“I’ve been saying all season…we can beat anyone.”

But to accomplish the mighty feat, it will take a close-to-perfect game from the MEAC tourney MVP. NSU will also need substantial contributions from 6-foot-1 senior forward Kierra Wheeler (15.6 ppg, 8.7 rpg, 1.9 spg, 2.3 bpg), 5-foot-7 sophomore guard Da’Brya Clark (9.2 ppg), 5-foot-8 sophomore guard Anjanae Richardson (9.1 ppg), along with 5-foot-8 fifth-year guard Niya Fields and 6-foot senior forward Makoye Diawara.

Last year, NSU lost 79-50 to Stanford as a No. 14 seed in the tournament’s first round. After acquiring Power Four wins this season and losing some close non-conference affairs to Alabama and Green Bay — two teams in the Birmingham 2 region — Diamond Johnson feels that the Spartans have everything they need to secure a victory. 

“I’ve been saying all season, if we can put all the quarters together and keep up with a team for 40 minutes, we can beat anyone,” Johnson said. “Kierra [Wheeler] brings dominance in the post. Niya [Fields] is the glue to the team, and with all of my other teammates …we can do this.”

When Johnson discovered that she was facing a familiar Big Ten foe with her teammates at Roger Brown’s Restaurant & Sports Bar on Selection Sunday, it proved that God does not make mistakes. As Johnson bet on herself, she used her faith and God’s grace to steer her in the right direction.

“This team [Maryland], this is perfect,” Johnson said. “It is the perfect bracket. I remember feeling like they [the selection committee] might send us out west again. …Everything is flowing and coming to life. I wanted to highlight HBCUs to show that big things can happen beyond Power Four schools. Everything is working in God’s favor.”

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“I think we played exceptionally well for the first 15 minutes and kind of exhaled and — Norfolk’s good,” Florida head coach Tom Golden said after the game. “They’re quick. They’re really hard to keep in front. And I thought we our defensive intensity for the first 15 minutes of the game was elite. We did a great job of staying in front, guarding physicality.”

But the HBCU squad wouldn’t go away, managing to keep Florida on its toes for the rest of the game.

And then when we took a little bit of a breath, we actually had some bad turnovers that led to transition run outs and gave them a little juice, little confidence,” Golden said. “Coach Jones does a great job continuing to motivate and keeping them engaged in the game. And they got a little life, an 11-0 run. And you know, I thought, they did a good job taking advantage of that.”

Jones acknowledged that the slow start hampered his team, which never managed to get the lead below 18 points. 

“We didn’t take the punch well, but, I think that we showed after that punch that the team that we were — that we really are — that we really should have been the whole game,” Jones said.

Walter Clayton Jr. led the Florida Gators with 23 points, hitting four of his nine 3-point attempts. Alijah Martin added 17 points for Florida.

Grad student Christian Ings led Norfolk State with 16 points, hitting six of his 13 attempts in his final game.

“We knew that we didn’t start the game the way we wanted to,”Ings said. “But we knew we damn sure we’re gonna finish the way we wanted.”

Norfolk State finishes its season 24-11 overall. 

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“I’ve been a little angry,” Jones admitted. “And I’m angry about the way the point spread is and things like that. I know Florida’s really, really good, and they’re a great program with great players. But are we that bad that the point spread is like that?”  

Jones and his Spartans have thrived in these moments before. He was an assistant in 2012 when Norfolk State stunned the college basketball world by knocking off No. 2 Missouri. Seven years later, in 2019, they took down Alabama in the NIT. Now, facing one of the most dominant teams in the country, Jones knows the blueprint for an upset.  

“Any upset I ever had—2012 Missouri, 2019 Alabama—those were all close games in the first half,” he said. “And it gave us the confidence to kind of push it through the second half. That’s what we’re hoping for tomorrow as well.”  

The Spartans are more than just another HBCU team happy to be in the NCAA Tournament. Jones has built a program that has won 20-plus games in four consecutive seasons and that expects to win, no matter the opponent.  

“We’re starting to show that it’s not just about the MEAC or HBCUs — that we’re really one of the best mid-majors in the country,” Jones said.

Norfolk State has tested itself against top competition all season.  

“We played Tennessee pretty close. We played —  and we beat — High Point. We played Alabama State and a couple of those schools,” Jones noted. “This shouldn’t be a shell shock to us. We have to withstand that first blow. Because I know Florida’s playing for a national championship. But I told my team —  we’re one of the 68 teams here—we’re playing for a national championship too.”  

That mentality resonates throughout the Norfolk State locker room, especially with veterans like Christian Ings, a rare four-year Division I player in today’s transfer-heavy era.  

“Christian Ings is like a dinosaur—the last remaining four-year guy in Division I,” Jones said. “There are kids averaging four points a game transferring, but he’s stuck with us, and he’s been good to Norfolk State. I know he’d love to cap off his career with a win.”  

While many see this matchup as a David vs. Goliath story, Jones refuses to accept that narrative.  

“A lot of times in the MEAC, we’re always the hunted,” Jones said. “But out of conference, we’re the hunters. And that’s when we try to prove ourselves, to show that it’s more than just the MEAC, more than just being an HBCU.”  

As the Spartans prepare for tipoff, Jones has one message for his team.  

“No one in the locker room is scared. No one in that locker room is afraid,” he said. “We’re excited about the challenge of playing the University of Florida.” 

Norfolk State is set to tip off against Florida in the NCAA Tournament on Friday at 6:50 PM. The HBCU will look to once again show that it can be a giant killer against the odds. 

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The decision to leave the CIAA was not made lightly, and it took nearly 18 months to complete. For decades, the CIAA had been a cornerstone of HBCU sports, fostering legendary athletes like Earl Monroe, Sam Jones etc. and coaches like Clarence “Big House” Gaines, John McLendon and Edward P. Hurt . However, by the late 1960s, cracks began to show in the conference’s structure. The CIAA had ballooned to 18 member schools by the end of the decade making scheduling and governance increasingly difficult. 

“There were just too many variables between the schools in the CIAA,” explained Dr. LeRoy Walker, then president of North Carolina Central and a key architect of the MEAC. “Variables in student body size, in financial support for athletics, and in the pursuit of excellence.”

The larger, better-resourced HBCUs like North Carolina A&T and Morgan State sought to align themselves with schools of similar size and ambition. These universities felt stifled within a conference where disparities in resources and priorities often led to compromises that they felt hindered athletic and academic growth.

As one MEAC official noted, “The new conference will require participation in eight sports, round-robin scheduling, freshman programs, and NCAA membership. We expect to be granted university division status.”

This ambition to compete at the highest collegiate level was a defining feature of the MEAC’s formation.

The CIAA, established in 1912, was a trailblazer in Black college sports. Its annual basketball tournament drew massive crowds and served as a cultural touchstone for HBCU communities. However, its rapid growth created logistical headaches. Round-robin scheduling was impossible, and its point-based standings system often left teams and fans frustrated.

This came to a head in the late 1940s, when adding schools such as Winston-Salem Teachers College and Delaware State pushed membership to 16 schools. The league continued to get bigger in the following decades when it added Maryland State (now Maryland Eastern Shore), Fayetteville State and Norfolk State out of the Eastern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (EIAC). 

Some teams had gaudy records but didn’t get to see tough competition, meaning the football championship was determined by the Dickinson System while the league’s surging basketball tournament was limited to just eight teams. Schools such as Winston-Salem, North Carolina A&T, Norfolk State pretty much made yearly appearances while schools like Virginia Union, Johnson C. Smith and North Carolina College made it intermittently and schools like Hampton and Howard rarely sniffed it.

Moreover, the sheer diversity of its member institutions—ranging from small private colleges to increasingly larger state HBCUs —meant that governance often favored compromise over bold decision-making. This dynamic was considered untenable for the larger schools, which had their sights set on competing with predominantly white institutions (PWIs) in the NCAA’s upper echelons.

In the aftermath of the Civil Rights movement and the beginnings of integration of college athletics, it was clear that great change was on the horizon. This was also the age of Nixon and the discussion between black capitalism vs. black cooperativism as eloquently written by Dick Gregory. “We shall overcome” was quickly turning into “I gotta get mine.”  And the heads of the larger, better resourced HBCUs saw themselves as prime candidates to cash in on what lay around the corner in the 1970s and beyond. 

“Black Capitalism at its finest will never catch up to a white capitalism for the simple reason that blacks are starting with more than a hundred year disadvantage,” Gregory wrote at the time. “The current mood surrounding bother black capitalism concept will only end up producing another segregated system in this country.”

“What is needed is a concept of black cooperativism. Black capitalism as it is currently understood means a few individuals establishing a business to make a profit. The development of cooperative business allows many people to work for profit rather than survival. It is cooperativism rather than capitalism, which stands a stands of chance of ending the current  paternalistic overtones of federal programs. “

(Go To Page Two for More)

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Here are the top six things you need to know about HBCU teams during March Madness 2025.

1. Norfolk State men’s basketball is back in the NCAA tournament

• Finished the season 24-10 (11-3 MEAC), winning the MEAC Tournament for the third time in five years.
• Return to the NCAA Tournament for the second time in three years and will face No. 1 Florida in the first round.
• Have built a reputation as a consistent mid-major power, with a historic 2012 upset over Missouri as one of the biggest tournament shockers ever.
• Key to the game: Limit turnovers, defend the three-point line, and win the rebounding battle.
• Game is on March 21 on CBS.

2. Norfolk State women’s basketball earns its third straight NCAA Tournament appearance

• Finished the season 30-4 (14-0 MEAC), going undefeated in conference play.
• Picked up two major non-conference wins over Missouri and Auburn from the SEC, showing they can compete against Power Five programs.
• Enter the tournament as a No. 13 seed and will face No. 4 Maryland in the first round.
• Key to the game: Force turnovers, control the tempo, and slow down Maryland’s transition offense.
• Game is on March 22 on ESPN2.

3. Southern women’s basketball heads to the First Four

• Won the SWAC Tournament and earned a spot in the First Four of the NCAA Tournament.
• Will play UC San Diego, with the winner advancing to play No. 1 UCLA in the first round.
• Have relied on defense and rebounding to win key games this season.
• Key to the game: Limit UCSD’s perimeter shooting, control the boards, and capitalize on second-chance opportunities.
• First Four game takes place on March 20 on TruTV.

4. Alabama State men’s basketball returns to March Madness after 20 years

• Won the SWAC Tournament, earning their first NCAA Tournament berth since 2005.
• Finished the season 21-12 (12-4 SWAC), using a strong defensive presence and physical inside play to win key games.
• Will face Saint Francis (PA) in the First Four, with the winner moving on to face No. 1 Auburn.
• Key to the game: Control the paint, limit fouls, and execute in the half-court offense.
• First Four game takes place on March 19 on TruTV.

5. Four HBCUs are competing in the WNIT

• Alabama A&M, Texas Southern, Howard, and Coppin State all earned WNIT bids.
• Matchups:
  • Alabama A&M vs. Central Arkansas – March 20
  • Texas Southern vs. Saint Mary’s – March 20
  • Howard vs. Siena – March 21 (Howard is hosting)
  • Coppin State vs. Colgate – March 22
• Key to success: Disciplined defense, ball control, and limit turnovers

6. North Carolina A&T earns a spot in the WBIT

• Won the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) regular-season title, finishing 22-9 (14-4 CAA).
• Earned a bid to the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament (WBIT) and will face No. 1 seed Virginia Tech.
• Led by senior guard Jordyn Dorsey, who is close to becoming the first player in program history with 400 career assists.
• Key to the game: Limit turnovers, defend against three-point shooting, and control the tempo.
• Game is on March 20 on ESPN+.

HBCU teams are making their presence felt in March Madness 2025, with multiple programs competing across the NCAA Tournament, WNIT, and WBIT. Norfolk State, Alabama State, Southern, Howard, and Texas Southern have all earned postseason opportunities, highlighting the continued growth of HBCU basketball. As these teams take the national stage, they have the chance to showcase their talent and competitiveness. Follow HBCU Gameday for the latest updates.

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This year marks the second consecutive year that the 87-year-old National Invitational Tournament will not include an HBCU program. The last team to compete in the annual contest was Alcorn State in 2023. That year, Alcorn State lost to North Texas 69-53 in the event’s first round. 

HBCU in the NIT

In considering current teams competing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, as well as Division I schools — Hampton, North Carolina A&T, and Tennessee State — in nontraditional HBCU conferences, there have only been seven times where the NIT has included an HBCU program in at least two or more consecutive seasons. There have only been four instances — 1993, 2007, 2008, and 2011 — where the selection committee has invited multiple HBCU programs in its nearly 90 years of existence.

Expect that to be the norm, though, as the MEAC and SWAC have lost NIT autobids along with other smaller conferences in recent years.

HBCU in the CBI

The first rendition of the CBI took place in 2008. The CBI committee selects 16 teams that are not awarded bids to the men’s NCAA tournament or the NIT and programs willing to pay a $27,500 entry fee to participate. This year marks the 12th instance — the tournament was canceled in 2020 due to COVID-19 — in the 17-year-old competition that an HBCU will not compete in this year’s tournament field.

Bethune Cookman participated in the 2024 College Basketball Invitational competition, losing to Arkansas State 86-85 in the tournament’s first round. Since the event’s inception, only four programs have participated in the five total occurrences in the 16-team bracket. Those teams include Hampton (2014, 2017), Delaware State (2015), and Howard (2019), in addition to the Wildcats.

More postseason tournaments were created to provide extra opportunities for programs to showcase their prowess on the national stage. However, even with more opportunities, getting more HBCU programs eligible or in a position to receive an invitation to other postseason competitions will be a continuing process.

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The WNIT committee awarded Howard (21-11) and TSU (16-15) automatic bids as they were the highest regular-season finishers in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and Southwestern Athletic Conference, respectively, that did not earn a bid into the women’s NCAA tournament or the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tournament (WBIT). CSU (18-14) and AAMU (21-10) received at-large bids in the field of 48 teams competing in the tournament.

HBCU WBB teams in the WNIT

Texas Southern

TSU will begin first-round WNIT action on March 20 when the HBCU host Saint Mary out of the West Coast Conference at 7:30 p.m. ET at H&PE Arena. The winner of the Tigers-Gaels clash will play Louisiana Tech in the second round of the tournament. Texas Southern enters the tournament after losing to Alcorn State 65-55 in the semifinals of the 2025 SWAC Tournament.

Howard

HU will battle MAAC opponent Siena (17-13) in the first round of the tournament on March 21 at 7:30 p.m. ET at Burr Gymnasium. The winner of the Bison-Saints contest will go to battle against the College of Charleston in the next round. Howard enters the Women’s National Invitational Tournament tournament field after losing to Norfolk State 68-56 in the 2025 MEAC Tournament championship game.

Alabama A&M

AAMU will go on the road to face SoCon foe Chattanooga (16-14) on March 22 at 2 p.m. ET at McKenzie Arena. The winner of the Bulldogs-Mocs’ contest will face Troy in the second round of the tournament. Alabama A&M enters the tournament after a 56-53 loss to Alcorn State in the quarterfinals of the 2025 SWAC Tournament.

Coppin State

CSU will travel to Hamilton, N.Y., to face Patriot League foe Colgate (23-9) on March 22 at 5 p.m. ET at Cotterell Court. The winner of the Eagles-Raiders’ clash will play Cleveland State in the tournament’s second round. Coppin State enters the tournament field, coming off a 72-33 loss to Norfolk State in the semifinals of the 2025 MEAC Tournament.

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The Spartans clinched their third consecutive Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Tournament title with a 68-56 victory over Howard University. Senior guard Kierra Wheeler led the charge with 22 points, while forward Diamond Johnson contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds. Their dominant performance throughout the season culminated in a stellar 30-4 record, including a perfect 14-0 run in MEAC play. Notably, Norfolk State is the only Division I HBCU to go undefeated in conference play this year.

Making history

Earning a No. 13 seed is a significant milestone for Norfolk State, reflecting the team’s hard work and resilience. This seeding surpasses the typical placements for HBCU women’s teams, which have often been assigned No. 16 seeds in the tournament. Historically, HBCU women’s programs have participated in March Madness 64 times, with 34 of those appearances as No. 16 seeds—the lowest possible seed. The highest seed an HBCU women’s team achieved was a No. 12 seed, accomplished three times before 1995.

Norfolk State will face the University of Maryland. Which holds a No. 4 seed, in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The Terrapins finished their season with a 23-7 record and are ranked No. 18 in the Associated Press Top-25 poll. The matchup is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, with Maryland hosting the game.

Norfolk State’s historic seeding elevates the program’s stature and shines a spotlight on the potential of HBCU women’s basketball teams. Their journey inspires, demonstrating that with dedication and talent, HBCU programs can compete at the highest levels of collegiate athletics.

As the Spartans prepare for their upcoming game against Maryland. They carry the pride of their university and the broader HBCU community. Their success this season is a testament to the possibilities that arise when opportunity meets preparation. Paving the way for future HBCU teams to aim higher in the NCAA Tournament.

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During the regular season, Norfolk State amassed a 24-10 record, showcasing its resilience and competitive spirit. Its journey to the NCAA tournament was punctuated by standout performances, notably from Christian Ings, who led the Spartans with 16 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in the MEAC Championship game. His clutch free throw with 8.9 seconds remaining sealed the victory for Norfolk State.

16 seed snub?

Despite their impressive record and conference championship, the Spartans were assigned a 16th seed in the NCAA tournament. This seeding decision has been a point of contention within the Norfolk State community, with many feeling it doesn’t accurately reflect the team’s accomplishments and capabilities. Notably, the Spartans are not participating in the “First Four” play-in games, which are typically reserved for the lowest-seeded teams, but they still face the challenge of being a 16th seed.

In the first round, Norfolk State will face the No.1 seed in the West Region, the Florida Gators. This matchup is particularly intriguing, as the Spartans have a history of competing well against high-caliber teams this season. Having lost to Stanford of the ACC 70-63 and the then number 1 team in the nation, The Tennessee Volunteers of the SEC, losing 52-67 on the road. Demonstrating their potential to challenge top programs.

Head coach Robert Jones has been instrumental in Norfolk State’s recent successes. Under his leadership, the Spartans have been a dominant team in the MEAC. Making significant strides for the HBCU on the national stage. Reflecting on the team’s journey, Coach Jones emphasized the importance of resilience and preparation. He acknowledged the challenges of facing a top-seeded team but expressed confidence in his players’ abilities to rise to the occasion.

Coach Jones speaks

“For a while, we were trending toward a 14 seed,” Said Coach Jones after winning the MEAC championship. “We lost two out of our last three games, so I know we’re not a 14 seed by any means, but I don’t think we should be a 16. At the very least, we should be a 15.” Jones continued. “We should not look up and be a 16. I mean if you’re going to make us a 16, you might as well put us in the play-in game. Because at least you have a chance to win that game and keep the journey going.”

The Spartans’ return to the NCAA tournament brings back memories of their historic 2012 run, where the HBCU achieved a monumental upset over the second-seeded Missouri Tigers. This year’s team draws inspiration from that legacy, aiming to make a significant impact in the tournament once again.

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The MEAC championship game was close early, with Norfolk State leading 29-26 at halftime. Both teams had trouble scoring in the second quarter, but the Spartans found their rhythm in the third. Their defense held Howard to just six points, while Norfolk State scored 16, creating a comfortable lead. In the fourth quarter, the Spartans used their depth and experience to stay in control and finish strong.

Kierra Wheeler was a key player for Norfolk State, leading the team with 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 blocks. She protected the paint and made it hard for Howard to score inside. Diamond Johnson also played an important role, adding 16 points, 3 steals, and 4 rebounds, helping both on offense and defense. Niya Fields kept the offense moving, finishing with 8 points and 7 assists.

The Spartans’ strong defense and efficient offense made the difference. They shot 59% in the second half, while Howard made just 34% of its shots. Norfolk State also controlled the tempo and made key plays when needed.

With a 30-win season and another MEAC title, Norfolk State has built one of the strongest programs in HBCU women’s basketball. Now, they will compete in the NCAA Tournament, looking to make an impact on the national stage. Their success this season has been impressive, but they are not finished yet. The Spartans are ready for their next challenge and hope to continue making history.

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Norfolk State’s Second-Half Surge

Trailing 34-25 at halftime, Norfolk State turned up the defensive intensity and got a clutch performance from Christian Ings, who finished with 16 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, including the game-winning free throw with 8 seconds remaining. Brian Moore Jr. added 15 points and 7 rebounds, while Jalen Myers hit key free throws down the stretch.

The Spartans were aggressive at the free-throw line, knocking down 19-of-26 in the second half, which helped them hold off South Carolina State’s last push.

South Carolina State Falls Short in MEAC Title Game

South Carolina State started strong, led by Wilson Dubinsky’s 24 points, including a perfect 5-for-5 from three-point range. But Norfolk State’s defense tightened in the second half, forcing turnovers and limiting the Bulldogs’ offense. A last-second shot by Jayden Johnson missed, allowing the Spartans to celebrate another MEAC Championship.

Norfolk State Returns to NCAA Tournament

This marks Norfolk State’s third MEAC Championship in the last five years, sending them back to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2022. Under head coach Robert Jones, the Spartans have solidified themselves as a force in HBCU basketball and a regular contender in March Madness.

With Selection Sunday approaching, Norfolk State will await their NCAA Tournament seeding. The Spartans will look to channel their legendary 2012 NCAA Tournament upset over Missouri as they aim to make another deep run.

Stay tuned for more updates on HBCU basketball, Norfolk State, the MEAC, and the NCAA Tournament. #HBCU #MEAC #NorfolkState #MarchMadness

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As he retires from coaching, Davis reflects on his long and successful career.

“I’ve been in the MEAC since 2000. I had some great teams at Delaware State, had some great teams here (Morgan State), and in the CIAA. My career has been blessed.”

His time in the CIAA and MEAC brought championships, NCAA Tournament appearances, and many great moments. But beyond the wins and titles, his greatest achievement has been the players he coached and mentored.

A Player First: Davis’ Roots in HBCU Basketball

Before becoming a coaching legend, Ed Davis Jr. was a standout player at West Virginia State College. He was a four-year letterwinner on the men’s basketball team, which set NCAA and NAIA scoring records in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His experience as a player gave him first-hand knowledge of the game at a high level, shaping his approach as a coach.

Davis later pursued higher education at two prestigious HBCUs. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education from West Virginia State College and a master’s degree in education from Howard University. His dedication to both athletics and academics highlights his lifelong commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes.

In recognition of his on-court success, he was inducted into the West Virginia State Athletics Hall of Fame in October 2008.

Building a Winner at Bowie State

Davis began his head coaching career at Bowie State University in 1993. Over eight seasons, he turned the Bulldogs into a powerhouse, finishing with a 171-54 record. His teams won three CIAA championships and made three NCAA Tournament appearances.

Between 1995 and 1999, Bowie State was nearly unstoppable, posting an incredible 110-10 record over four years. His teams played tough, disciplined basketball, a style that would define his career.

Making History at Delaware State

In 2000, Davis took over at Delaware State University, where he became the school’s all-time winningest coach in women’s basketball. He led the Lady Hornets to 171 wins and guided them to four 20-win seasons, the only ones in program history.

His biggest moment came in 2007 when he led Delaware State to its first MEAC Tournament championship and NCAA Tournament appearance. It was a historic achievement for the program and HBCU basketball.

Restoring Morgan State’s Competitiveness

Davis joined Morgan State University in 2012 as an assistant coach before taking over the program in 2015. Over the years, he helped rebuild the Lady Bears into a MEAC contender.

His biggest accomplishment at Morgan State came in 2022 when the Lady Bears won their first-ever MEAC regular-season title. His teams also appeared in the WNIT (Women’s National Invitational Tournament), keeping Morgan State competitive at a national level.

More Than Just a Coach

For Davis, basketball was always about more than just the game. He was a mentor, a leader, and a role model to his players. He pushed them to work hard, stay disciplined, and be prepared for life beyond basketball.

At his final MEAC Tournament postgame press conference, Davis spoke about his love for the game and his desire to bring one more championship to Morgan State.

“I’m not going to lie, this is probably the only HBCU I have not won a championship at. All the others I have. I wanted them to experience what it’s like to be on the other side, go to the NCAA, and be able to pull that banner down on that floor.”

Even as he steps away, his players and former athletes continue to support him.

“For me to see girls out there from Delaware State, Bowie State—that means a lot to me because these girls are now 30 and 40 years old and they still coming back to support me. That means a lot. It really does.”

A Lasting Legacy in HBCU Basketball

Davis has already been honored for his contributions. He was inducted into Bowie State’s Hall of Fame in 2014, and in November 2024, he was inducted into the Delaware State Athletics Hall of Fame.

Few coaches have left a mark on HBCU basketball the way Ed Davis Jr. has. From CIAA dominance to MEAC success, he built strong programs and helped shape generations of athletes.

As he moves on from coaching, his influence will continue to be felt across HBCU basketball.

A true legend leaves the court, but his impact remains.

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These two MEAC powerhouses have faced off in the championship three times before, with Norfolk holding a 2-1 edge. The Spartans are chasing a historic three-peat, while Howard is trying to break through after falling short the last two years.

“It’s like your sister—you live with them every day, but they just annoy you so much,” Howard head coach Ty Grace said about the rivalry. “We know each other inside and out. It’s about who steps up.”?

With a trip to the NCAA Tournament on the line, expect a high-intensity battle between two teams that know each other well.

Season Recap: Norfolk’s Dominance vs. Howard’s Resilience

• Norfolk State (28-4, 14-0 MEAC): The Spartans ran through the MEAC undefeated, sweeping Howard in the regular season (69-53 at home, 68-56 on the road)??. Their defense has been their calling card, allowing just 56.6 points per game.
• Howard (20-10, 12-2 MEAC): The Bison are making their fifth straight MEAC championship appearance but haven’t won since 2022. Their only two conference losses this season came against Norfolk, and they’re eager to flip the script?.

Players to Watch

• Howard’s Destiny Howell (15.1 PPG): One of the MEAC’s top scorers, Howell knows the stakes. “I wanted to be known as a better passer, a better leader. Now it’s time to show it,” she said?.
• Norfolk’s Diamond Johnson (19.1 PPG, 6.1 RPG): A lethal scorer who thrives in big moments?.
• Norfolk’s Kierra Wheeler (15.3 PPG, 9.0 RPG): A dominant post presence aiming to lead the Spartans to three straight titles. “We’ve done it two years in a row, but now we want to make it three,” Wheeler said?.

Game Plan: Howard’s Ball Control vs. Norfolk’s Pressure Defense

If Howard wants to win, they must limit turnovers. Norfolk forces nearly 22 turnovers per game, and in their two regular-season meetings, Howard struggled to handle the pressure?.

“We have to be smarter with the ball,” Grace said. “They thrive off our mistakes. If we can play our game, we can win.”?

For Norfolk State, the formula is simple: high-pressure defense and rebounding dominance. They are one of the top defensive teams in the country and rarely give up second-chance points.

“We don’t take possessions off,” Norfolk head coach Larry Vickers said. “We’ve built our program on defense, and we’re not going to change that now.”?

A Historic MEAC Showdown

This game is about more than just a title—it’s about legacy.

For Norfolk State, a victory would make them three-time MEAC champions, solidifying their dynasty.

For Howard, this is a chance to prove they can win on the big stage and avoid another heartbreaking finish.

“We’ve been here before. Now, we need to finish,” Howell said?.

A five-time finalist vs. a team chasing a three-peat.

Two HBCU rivals. One MEAC championship on the line.

Who will come out on top?

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Focused on More Than Just a Win

After the semifinal victory, head coach Larry Vickers and his players spoke to the media. Instead of just talking about their next game, they reflected on what it means to be part of something bigger.

Kierra Wheeler made it clear that the team isn’t just focused on winning—they’re focused on building a winning culture.

“Honestly, it’s really about legacy,” Wheeler said. “We’ve done it two years in a row, but now it’s about continuing to build the winning culture at Norfolk State.”

She also emphasized that national recognition matters: “He brought up being invited to the WBIT, but that’s not our goal. We want more.”

Norfolk State’s Championship Pedigree

Norfolk State knows what it takes to win championships. Before their dominance in the MEAC, the Spartans won three straight CIAA titles from 1991 to 1993. That success helped shape the powerhouse they are today.

How Norfolk State Compares to Other Great MEAC Teams

Few teams have gone undefeated in MEAC play, and Norfolk State now stands among the best. Here’s how they compare to other legendary teams:

Why Norfolk State’s Season Stands Out

1. Chasing a Three-Peat
   • Norfolk State could win its third straight MEAC title, something only Hampton (2011-2014) has done recently.
2. Beyond the MEAC: A National Presence
   • The Spartans want to prove they belong on a bigger stage. A bid to the NCAA Tournament or WBIT would be a step toward national recognition.
3. The Dynasty Mentality
   • Even before the MEAC final, the team is thinking long-term. Wheeler summed it up:“The legacy is what’s important. Potentially going down as one of the best teams ever in the MEAC.”

Staying Focused on the Big Picture

Diamond Johnson talked about how the team has grown and stayed locked in throughout the season.

“It’s hard. Winning at any level is tough,” Johnson said. “This was our goal from the beginning. We were regular season champs, we went 14-0 at home, but now we have to finish the job.”

What is the WBIT?

If Norfolk State doesn’t make the NCAA Tournament, the Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament (WBIT) could be an option.

• What is it?
  The WBIT is a national tournament, similar to the men’s NIT, that gives top teams a postseason chance if they don’t make the NCAA bracket.
• Why does it matter?
  A WBIT bid would allow Norfolk State to compete against top teams outside the MEAC, helping them gain more national exposure.
• A Stepping Stone for HBCUs
  A strong run in the WBIT would not only boost Norfolk State but also bring attention to HBCU women’s basketball as a whole.

Norfolk State’s Impact on HBCU Basketball

This season isn’t just about wins. Norfolk State is raising the standard for MEAC women’s basketball and pushing for national recognition.

Head Coach Larry Vickers stressed the importance of appreciating success and staying focused.

“When you win so many games in a row, you start to take it for granted,” Vickers said. “That’s my job—to remind them how special this is.”

• National Recognition – Norfolk State is proving HBCU teams belong in bigger conversations.
• Building a Legacy – The Spartans aren’t just chasing trophies; they’re shaping the future of Norfolk State basketball.
• Setting a New Standard – Winning another MEAC title would put them among the greatest teams in conference history.

One More Game to Make History

With the MEAC Championship game ahead, Norfolk State isn’t just playing for this season—they’re playing for their legacy. A win would solidify them as one of the best MEAC teams ever and could lead to an even bigger stage.

For the Spartans, this isn’t just about another title—it’s about cementing their place in HBCU basketball history.

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For Christian Ings, this moment is personal. A key part of Norfolk State’s 2022 MEAC Championship team, he felt the sting of back-to-back disappointments, first losing the 2023 title game to Howard, then falling to Howard again in last year’s semifinals.

“To not make it this far last year definitely left a bad taste in the locker room,” Ings said. “The seniors from last year told me before they left, like, ‘Yo, it’s your turn next year. You gotta make it. You gotta make it for us.’”

Ings delivered in a big way, leading all scorers with 19 points and knocking down clutch shots to keep the Spartans in control late. Brian Moore Jr. added 14 points, including a powerful dunk in the final minutes that helped secure the win.

Norfolk State’s Championship Journey: Five Years of Ups & Downs

Under Coach Rob Jones, Norfolk State dominated the MEAC in 2021 and 2022, winning back-to-back championships and making consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. But the past two seasons tested the program’s resilience.

• 2023: Norfolk State made the title game but lost to Howard.
• 2024: The Spartans were eliminated in the semifinals—again by Howard.

Now, after two years of frustration, they have a chance to reclaim their place atop the MEAC.

“We gotta play with more desperation and urgency because we’re not guaranteed anything,” said Jones. “When you want to win the league, you gotta do more, or those 23 wins don’t mean anything.”

Why Brian Moore Jr. Chose His HBCU

That winning culture is exactly why Brian Moore Jr. transferred to Norfolk State.

“I wanted to be at a place that really cared about basketball,” Moore Jr. said. “That was the biggest thing when I went to the portal. It makes a difference when you have fans who show up, when you’re playing for a program that expects to win.”

Moore Jr. was crucial down the stretch, scoring 10 of his 14 points in the second half. His defense and intensity helped Norfolk rally from a 28-25 halftime deficit.

One More Game for a MEAC Title

With one more win, Norfolk State can avoid the disappointment of the past two years and bring the championship back home.

“We’ve been waiting for this,” Ings said. “Now, we just have to finish the job.”

The MEAC Championship Game tips off on Saturday at 1pm, with Norfolk State just one win away from reclaiming its spot at the top of HBCU basketball.

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Speaking after North Carolina Central’s thrilling last-second upset win over Delaware State in the MEAC Tournament, Moton didn’t hold back. “In this portal era, in this NIL era, things have changed. What required you to be a good coach five years ago? That ain’t the climate now,” he said.

The Impact of NIL and the Transfer Portal on HBCU Basketball

Before the transfer portal, college basketball players had to sit out a year if they switched schools. Now, they can play immediately, which has led to a major shift in recruiting. At the same time, NIL allows athletes to earn money, and bigger programs with larger financial resources can offer more lucrative deals.

“Whoever got the most money just buys a team, assembles a team. You got 14 new guys learning each other,” Moton said. This new era has made it tough for HBCUs to keep their best players from being recruited by Power Four schools with bigger NIL opportunities.

HBCU Basketball Stars Moving Up

Many standout HBCU players have transferred to larger programs in search of better NIL deals and more exposure. Some recent examples include:

• Steve Settles III (Howard to Temple)
• Elijah Hawkins (Howard to Minnesota to Texas Tech)
• Jamari Thomas (Norfolk State to South Carolina)
• Duncan Powell (NCCU to Georgia Tech)
• Blake Harper? (Howard) – A rising freshman star already drawing interest from Power Four programs.

For HBCU basketball, this means programs must constantly rebuild their rosters, as top players often leave before fully developing. “Five years ago, we could develop a guy for three or four years,” an HBCU coach told HBCU Gameday. “Now, he might be gone after one season.”

The Looming House v. NCAA Settlement and What It Means for HBCUs

The House v. NCAA settlement could change recruiting even more by forcing schools to directly pay players. This raises big questions for HBCU basketball:

• Will HBCUs have the budget to compete with larger schools?
• Will Power Four programs continue to dominate recruiting by offering salaries?
• Can HBCUs find new ways to leverage NIL to attract top talent?

The Future of HBCU Basketball in the NIL Era

To stay competitive, HBCU basketball programs must adapt to this evolving landscape. Coaches are no longer just developing players—they are rebuilding their teams every season and navigating the NIL market.

“We can sit here and complain, or we can adjust,” Moton said. “The game is different now. The best coaches aren’t just coaching—they’re adapting.”

Thursday night’s hero for North Carolina Central was Isaac Parson, a graduate transfer from DII HBCU Winston-Salem State.

Even for Moton, the transfer portal giveth, and the transfer portal taketh away.

With players like Blake Harper gaining national attention, the focus is on whether HBCUs can hold onto their stars or if Power Four programs will continue to pull them away. One thing is clear: NIL and the transfer portal have forever changed HBCU basketball.

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“It’s good to be at home and in front of my family and friends,” Woods said proudly. His basketball roots trace back to Granby High School, where he first gained recognition. Woods further showcased his talents at Christopher Newport University, becoming a Division III All-American. He also proudly mentioned his educational ties to another HBCU, Norfolk State University, noting, “That’s my second degree from there, though. So Norfolk State is my second degree of my three and a half.”

Woods’ legacy in Hampton Roads spans beyond his playing career. He was instrumental in Booker T. Washington High School’s 2006 Group AAA State Boys Basketball Championship victory. Later, Woods led the Maury High School girls’ basketball team to an outstanding 61-18 record over three seasons and spearheaded Bryant & Stratton’s inaugural men’s basketball season.

“Virginia, now as the head coach coaching back at the Scope where I coached and played? It’s a big deal. And I’m a great fan. I won’t take it for granted,” Woods emphasized.

Returning for the MEAC tournaments brought mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness for Woods. “I didn’t sleep at all. I haven’t been sleeping. Haven’t eaten either. So I need to eat. I’m going to have a good meal today,” he humorously shared. Reflecting on local hospitality, he joked, “People are feeding us good. We have nice, fancy restaurants every day, and people are taking care of us.”

Woods deeply appreciated the support from the Hampton Roads community. “I appreciate everyone in the city for the love they showed me when I return. It’s actually unbelievable. It’s an honor,” he said. The semifinal matchup against Norfolk State, his alma mater, amplifies the emotion and competitive spirit of his homecoming. The Norfolk State supporters will likely dominate the crowd, adding another challenge and an exciting atmosphere to the matchup. Coppin State players like Tiffany Hammond, Angel Jones, and Leila Lawrence have been crucial to the team’s tournament run, stepping up in critical moments.

Despite personal accolades and hometown warmth, Woods remained focused on team success. He praised his Coppin State team’s resilience during challenging moments in HBCU basketball matchups, stating, “We didn’t let offensive struggles dictate our defense.” Coppin State’s performance this year builds on their ongoing pursuit of MEAC success, and a semifinal victory would significantly enhance their standing in the conference.

As Woods coached Coppin State at the heart of the MEAC tournaments, his return underscored his ongoing commitment to HBCU sports, celebrating his past and creating new basketball legacies. A victory on Friday could propel Coppin State closer to a championship, adding another memorable chapter to Woods’ impactful homecoming.

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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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The 6’7 guard scored 27 points and grabbed eight rebounds while playing 37 minutes in the MEAC Tournament semifinal.  He keyed a run that saw Howard go from a 10-point deficit to a one-point lead on a 3-pointer from teammate Cameron Shokley-Okeke with 16 seconds remaining. Morgan State would answer with a Kameron Hobbs layup to re-take the lead with 10 seconds to go. Howard was unable to answer and saw its season end with its first loss in the MEAC Tournament since 2022. 

“Just trying to do anything to make my team win. You know, my team is is finding the right spots, and being able to execute,” Harper said of his performance and his team’s late run. “But we came up short.

The Boy Wonder showed why he was named the conference’s top player as well as its top rookie, a first in the 54-year history of the HBCU conference. He scored better than his average of 19.3 points and 6.3 rebounds in the loss. Despite his obvious talent, many people questioned whether or not he should have won the honor due to Howard having just 12 wins on the season. Those doubters may or may not have been convinced, but that doesn’t matter to Blake Harper. 

“I’m not really worried about the outside noise. But player of the year…like I work. I worked my tail off all season,” Harper said after the game. “That’s what came with it. But to me, I just wanted to come out and win. But we came up short.”

Harper has gone from a towel boy — literally — to possibly the second most talked about freshman in college basketball (behind Duke’s Cooper Flagg) .

“Nobody really believed in us when the preseason player of the year went down and I still feel like we broke the barriers for sure,” Blake reflected. “And personally, I feel like nobody believed in me — just coming in here —  other than our Howard University circle, especially this man on my right and really took me in when I was a chubby senior. And really having no experience playing on this big stage. And I trusted him and got me where I’m at now. And I’m just forever grateful for the coaching staff of the program.”

Harper’s coach, Kenneth Blakeney couldn’t say enough about his superstar freshman. His words mostly remarked who Harper is as a young man moreso than as a basketball star.

“I think for me, it’s the character of who he is, is huge. When you talk about how all the things that he’s accomplished on the court, the type of young man that he is allows him the opportunity to be able to do that. His nuclear household family, and the the way that his loving family raised him. The love and support that the community gives and the love and support that the DC gives him.”

Blake Harper’s size and production have made him the constant target of the financial apparatus that surrounds college basketball in 2025. With the NIL and year-to-year transfer portal, Harper will have every chance to transfer out of Howard and play at some bigger name basketball school for more money. That means everyone from opposing coaches to agents to plane ‘ole leeches see themselves with something to gain from a player that was on very few people’s radar a few years ago. 

“I watched him handle things that were very challenging in his life the right way. But he’s also handled success the right way. And going from a person that was undervalued and under looked the majority of his life in the basketball space to having everything that he’s worked his butt off and positioned himself for,” Blakeney said. “He’s never changed. So that’s a great testament to the people in his life, that have supported him, raised and loved him and guided him the right way. He’s, to his credit, accepted all of those things. And is a wonderful young man.” 

The chubby kid that no coach wanted and was as recently as last summer a towel boy is now one of the most sought-after players in college basketball. Harper hasn’t said definitively whether or not he’ll stay at the HBCU for another year or hit the transfer portal. He wasn’t asked about it in the post-game press conference at the Scope. But he and his teammates — seniors Marcus Dockery and Anwar Gill — were asked to give final remarks.

The Boy Wonder sounded just as contemplative and reflective as his older teammates as he spoke last.

“For me personally. It’s just a lot of personal growth. And I remember, like, one of the first practices, Coach took me to the side and said, you got to be able to receive your blessings. And I really just been keeping them in my mind throughout the whole season for real. Just to see our team fight, fight, fight and never really give up and never pay attention to what people say bad about us.

“I mean, I’m just so proud of my guys and I’d do it again. I’d do it again in a heartbeat,” he said with the undertone of a man at the crossroads. 

“I mean, this was a legendary, ride,” Harper said. “I’ll never forget it — for sure.”

And so, The Boy Wonder went back into the dark night with his college basketball fate only known to him. 

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The dramatic finish came down to the final seconds, with Isaac Parson delivering the decisive layup with just one second remaining, breaking a 77-77 tie. Smith, however, was the driving force behind NCCU’s inspired performance, finishing with 22 points on a near-perfect 7-for-9 shooting night, complemented by an immaculate 8-for-8 from the free throw line.

Yet Smith’s performance transcended basketball, driven by a deeply personal mission. His younger sister is currently battling cancer, an emotional burden that has weighed heavily on him throughout the season.

“My little sis, we’re very close, and my family is very devastated,” Smith said after the game. “This is a very hard time, but basketball has become my escape, my therapy. I play for my sister because I know she’s watching.”

North Carolina Central head coach LeVelle Moton expressed profound admiration for Smith’s resilience.

“For Perry to just be out here and still on this team says a lot about his character. He’s fighting through things most people can’t imagine. He’s playing for something bigger, and he knows it,” Moton said. “My grandmother told me the two most important days of your life are the day you were born and the day you figure out why. I think Perry has figured out why now.”

In a tightly contested game marked by nine ties and four lead changes, NCCU relied on emotional resilience and critical free throws down the stretch. Delaware State fought valiantly, led by Muneer Newton’s game-high 27 points and Martaz Robinson’s clutch 20-point performance. But NCCU’s determination proved insurmountable.

This victory propels NCCU into the MEAC quarterfinals, it will face second-seeded South Carolina State. Riding a scorching 10-game winning streak, the Orangeburg, SC-based HBCU represents a formidable challenge. Still, Smith and the Eagles remain focused, inspired, and ready to continue their improbable run through the MEAC Tournament.

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MEAC Matchup Breakdown

Morgan State (14-17, 7-7 MEAC) enters with a potent offense that ranks among the best in the conference, averaging nearly 81 points per game. Norfolk State (22-10, 11-3 MEAC), on the other hand, showcases a robust defensive unit that has consistently held opponents under 70 points per contest.

NSU, the tournament’s top seed, took care of business against Maryland Eastern Shore on Wednesday night and had Thursday off.

Morgan State had to battle to the wire to defeat Howard University in the quarterfinals.

Players to Watch

• Morgan State Bears’ Standouts:
  • Kameron Hobbs: Fresh off an impressive 33-point performance against Howard, Hobbs leads the Bears’ attack with an average of 16.6 points per game.
  • Will Thomas: A versatile forward averaging 14.3 points per game, essential for both scoring and rebounding.
  • Daniel Akitoby: A powerful presence on the boards, averaging 7.3 rebounds per game, crucial for second-chance opportunities
    .
• Norfolk State Spartans’ Key Defenders:
  • Brian Moore Jr.: Norfolk State’s top scorer averaging 18.7 points per game, notable for his efficiency and clutch plays.
  • Christian Ings: Exceptional sharpshooter, converting nearly 50% from three-point range, stretching opposing defenses.
  • Jalen Myers: An influential player contributing 11 points and nearly six rebounds per game, vital for controlling the game’s pace.

Crucial Game-Changers

• Morgan State’s Bench Production: Contributions from Amahrie Simpkins and Kiran Oliver will be critical to match Norfolk State’s depth and sustain offensive pressure.
• Norfolk State’s Reserve Impact: Terrance Jones and Chris Fields Jr. must make significant bench contributions to ensure stability, particularly if starters encounter foul trouble.

Winning Strategies

• Morgan State: The Bears must utilize their high-scoring offense to exploit the Spartans’ vulnerability from beyond the arc and maintain defensive composure throughout.
• Norfolk State: The Spartans need their stout defense to dominate the boards, limit Morgan State’s second-chance points, and effectively defend the perimeter.

The Stakes are High

This semifinal showdown not only determines who advances to the MEAC Championship but also serves as a critical moment for each team’s postseason aspirations. Norfolk State holds a slight edge due to its defensive discipline and the home-court atmosphere, but Morgan State’s explosive offense could create the upset.

Anticipate a very competitive HBCU basketball battle filled with passion, intensity, and possibly a dramatic conclusion.

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A Legacy Defined by Resilience

Lawrence’s story is one of perseverance. Before arriving at Coppin State, she had all but walked away from the game. “I didn’t want to play basketball,” she admitted. “I was grinding, working hard, but I just had to believe in myself.”That belief turned into one of the most decorated careers in Coppin State history. Over just two seasons, Lawrence has climbed into the program’s top 15 in both points and rebounds and sits 10th in blocks. The HBCU WBB star is fourth in the nation in double-doubles, securing her 20th of the season with a 15-point, 13-rebound, 4-steal, and 3-block performance in the MEAC quarterfinals.

A Defensive Powerhouse

Her impact extends beyond scoring and rebounding. She is the MEAC’s back-to-back Defensive Player of the Year and has twice swept the conference’s Player and Defensive Player of the Week honors—something no MEAC player has done since the 2016-17 season.

Her defensive presence is elite. When Coppin State played against LSU last season, she held Angel Reese—one of the top players in the nation—to just six rebounds. She also grabbed 25 rebounds against Delaware State, the most in a single game by any Division I player last season, outpacing Stanford’s Cameron Brink By 1.

How Does She Rank Among Coppin State’s Greats?

Few players in Coppin State history have had the impact Lawrence has. She is only the 10th player in school history to score over 500 points in a season. Additionally, she’s one the only player nationwide averaging at least 15 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block per game.

When discussing Coppin’s all-time greats like Rashida Suber and Shalamar Oakley, Lawrence’s name now belongs in that conversation.

The Bond That Brought Her Back to the Game

More than her numbers, Lawrence’s impact at Coppin State is about belief—both in herself and from those around her. “Coach, that’s my dog,” she said with a smile. “Without him, I don’t think I would have ever found my love for the game again. He’s like a second brother.”Her connection with the team and the coaching staff helped her rediscover her passion for the game. Now, she wants her legacy to inspire others: “Just believe in yourself. Never give up, no matter what.”

What’s Next?

With her final MEAC Tournament run underway, Lawrence has one last shot at the NCAA Tournament. Her HBCU hoops legacy is cemented whether or not Coppin State punches its ticket.”Coppin is my family,” she said. “I love it here. Everybody loves me. We always play with heart.”And when the final buzzer sounds, whether in the semifinals, the championship, or beyond, Laila Lawrence will leave Coppin State as one of its all-time greats.

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