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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A. Zachary Faison Jr., J.D. 

President & CEO 

Edward Waters University 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Understanding the HBCU experience

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

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

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

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

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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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Clark Atlanta advanced to the championship game after defeating Virginia Union on Thursday. Clark Atlanta fell behind early, trailing 10-1, but closed the gap to 19-13 by the end of the first quarter. The Lady Panthers surged in the second, forcing four turnovers and taking a 29-24 lead at halftime. They dominated the third quarter, shooting 73% and building a 20-point lead before finishing the period up 18. Virginia Union outscored CAU 25-15 in the fourth, but it wasn’t enough. Clark Atlanta controlled the paint and secured the win.

JCSU will have the opportunity to finish a disappointing season on a high note by defeating CAU. The Golden Bulls made it to the championship after its opening round win against rival Livingstone.

Johnson C. Smith defeated Livingstone 77-59 in a dominant performance at Bojangles Coliseum. JCSU took control in the second half, outscoring Livingstone 53-35 after halftime. Kyshonna Brown led JCSU with 14 points and 6 rebounds, while Rylee Ghent added 10 points and 5 boards. Morgan Kelson paced Livingstone with 20 points and 6 rebounds. JCSU’s defense forced 23 turnovers and outscored Livingstone 48-28 in the paint, securing an 18-point victory to advance to Saturday’s game.

On the men’s side it will be Claflin (19-10) versus Virginia Union University (16-15) for the championship. During the 2024-2025 men’s basketball season, Claflin University and Virginia Union University faced off once. On December 5, 2024, Claflin edged out Virginia Union with a 79-76 victory in Richmond, Virginia. This win extended Claflin’s winning streak against Virginia Union to three games, improving their overall record in the series to 5-3.

Virginia Union defeated Johnson C. Smith to advance to the championship, while Claflin was able to get past Central State. The Black College Invitational Championship men’s game will be televised at 3pm on HBCU GO. Both games will be at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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After serving two years as the Dragons’ linebackers coach and video coordinator, Carter comes to Tuskegee. Lane’s linebackers’ group played a key part in the team’s success defensively. Last season, the Dragons’ defense tallied 644 total tackles, 65 tackles for loss and 23 sacks. The unit also forced eight fumbles while recovering seven and intercepted six passes.

In 2023, Carter anchored a defensive group that registered 633 total tackles, with 68 tackles for loss and 20 sacks. The unit also forced six interceptions and seven fumbles. 

Before Lane, Carter — a former Grambling State football standout — gained a wealth of experience from other high school and collegiate stops in his career. Those include serving as the assistant defensive line coach at SWAC HBCU Texas Southern, helping the Tigers elevate to No. 2 in the FCS in interceptions. 

Carter served as the defensive coordinator and strength and conditioning coach at Franklin High School. At Franklin, Carter’s defense led Class 2A in takeaways. He also served as the defensive coordinator at Pro-Vision Academy, helping the team capture its first state championship in program history.

The Houston native is no stranger to success. He gained recognition from the community as he was responsible for mentoring two high school All-Americans and multiple Division I prospects.

Before he entered the coaching ranks, Carter played for GSU from 2005 to 2009, helping the program secure a SWAC title and Black College Football national championship in 2005 under the leadership of Melvin Spears and a second SWAC title in 2008 under Rod Broadway’s leadership.

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Central State University is excited to announce the hiring of Tony Carter as the Marauders’ next head football coach. Carter, a former NFL cornerback and experienced coach at the professional and collegiate levels. Bringing a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the HBCU program. 

“I am incredibly excited and honored to join the Central State University Marauders as the head football coach,” Carter said. “This program has a rich history of greatness, and I am committed to bringing that tradition back to life. My goal is to build strong relationships with our proud alumni, passionate fan base, and the entire CSU community. Together, we will develop winners on and off the field. Instilling a culture of discipline, accountability, and excellence.”It’s time to bring a new and improved winning atmosphere to Marauder football, and I can’t wait to get to work!”

“Coach Carter brings a wealth of experience, not only as a former NFL player but also as a coach with experience at the NFL, XFL and collegiate levels,” Brown said. “As both a leader and a person, he embodies the core values that align with our program and university. Throughout this process, it became clear that Coach Carter’s relentless drive, vision for the program and determination will be key factors in establishing a winning culture and a new standard of excellence.”The future of Marauder football is bright under his leadership!”

Over a decade in the game

Carter’s football career spans over a decade. He began as a standout cornerback at Florida State University, where he was a four-year starter, was named Freshman All-American, and earned multiple All-ACC honors. He went on to play in the NFL for eight seasons. Playing for the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, and New Orleans Saints. A highlight of his NFL career was competing in Super Bowl XLVIII as a member of the Denver Broncos.

Following his playing career, Carter transitioned into coaching, serving in roles such as defensive assistant and interim defensive backs coach with the Detroit Lions, cornerbacks coach at Jacksonville University, and defensive coordinator for the XFL’s Orlando Guardians. He has also participated in the prestigious NFL Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship with teams such as the Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, and Oakland Raiders. Most recently, Carter served as the cornerbacks coach at Southeastern University. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Tony Carter as the new head football coach,” said HBCU President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti. “We believe in his vision for the team and are confident that he will inspire our student-athletes to excel both on and off the field. This is an exciting new chapter for Marauder football, and we look forward to the success that lies ahead under his leadership.”

Central State University Marauder Athletics Press Conference

When: Thursday, March 20 | Noon ET

Where: Madison W. Beacom/Gaston F. Lewis Gymnasium at Central State University, 1400 Brush Row Road, Wilberforce, OH 45384

Join live: Stream the press conference at https://maraudersports.com/watch/?Live=395&type=Live.

Marauder fans, alumni, and members of the media are invited to attend and welcome the new leader of the Central State Marauders HBCU football program.

The post Former ACC player, NFL vet takes over HBCU football program appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

This move solidifies the BCIC as a unique postseason showcase for teams that frequently dominate their conferences but may not get at-large bids to the NCAA Division II Tournament. While the CIAA and SIAC champions receive automatic bids, other top-tier teams are often left out of the postseason picture.

The tournament will be played in Charlotte at the Bojangles Coliseum. It will start off with Clark Atlanta (23-7) against Virginia Union (21-7) in the women’s bracket at 12 PM. The 2 PM game will featured Claflin (18-10) vs. Central State (17-14) in men’s competition. Thursday night action tips off with the Johnson C. Smith women (7-18) vs. rival Livingstone College (11-16). The nightcap will see JCSU (14-12) take on Virginia Union (15-15) on the men’s side.

With this new focus, the BCIC aims to elevate the profile of Division II HBCU basketball, giving student-athletes and fans a true postseason experience. As the tournament tips off in Charlotte, North Carolina, it will serve as a reminder that HBCU basketball excellence extends beyond Division I.

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Maddox struggled out of the gate during his first of seven seasons at Benedict. In the 2018-19 season Benedict finished with a 4-24 overall record. The following season the Tigers nearly reached the 500 mark going 14-16 overall. In the shortened COVID season of 2020-21 Benedict only played in 10 games going 9-1. The following three seasons would be the high water mark for Maddox winning 22, 22 and 23 games in those season respectively.

But this past season ended much like the first season with Benedict finishing 6-22 overall. The Tigers were 6-14 in the SIAC, losing all of its out of conference games.

Maddox came to Benedict after serving as head coach at Florida Memorial University for three seasons. The major achievement on his resume prior to coming to Benedict was being an assistant at Mountain State University where he helped lead the Cougars to the 2003-04 NAIA Division I national championship.

As a player Maddox attended Edward Waters College where he averaged 14 points and six rebounds before transferring after two seasons. He finished his career at Mountain State.

Artis Maddox replaced Fred Watson who left Benedict for Miles College after the 2017-18 season. Maddox lost the SIAC Championship game in 2023, and was knocked out of the tournament early in 2024 but still received an at-large bid to the NCAA playoffs. The Benedict men last won an SIAC Championship in the 2014-15 season under Watson.

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ATLANTA, Ga.- Savannah State claimed their second SIAC Tournament Championship since 2022, following their 67-66 win over Tuskegee on Saturday afternoon inside Forbes Arena on the HBCU campus of Morehouse College.

With the game knotted at 66, Javonte Landy hit the game-winning free throw with two seconds left. After a timeout by Tuskegee, the Golden Tigers attempted to throw a full-court length pass, but it was tipped and picked off by an SSU player, and Savannah State won the game. Landy led the Tigers with 23 points, making 4-of-6 of his shots from beyond the arc as well as 5-of-6 from the free throw line. With just under five minutes remaining in the game, SSU trailed by eight but strung together a 14-3 run that gave them a 66-63 lead with 16 seconds left.

Landy keyed the run with a layup, two jumpers, two free throws, and a 3-pointer, but it was a 3-pointer by Ayjay Plain that put SSU ahead by three with 16 seconds remaining. Following a timeout, Tuskegee tied the game at 66 with a 3-pointer, forcing SSU to call a timeout. Landy was fouled and missed the first of his two free throw attempts before hitting the second one.

Savannah State scored the first five points of the HBCU conference tournament contest thanks to two free throws by Qua King and a 3-pointer by Landy, and the Tigers used a 7-0 spurt to build a ten-point advantage with 12:56 left in the first period. Tuskegee was able to tie the game at 25 and take a 27-25 lead with just over three minutes left. A 3-pointer by Landy put the Tigers in front 28-27, but Tuskegee took a 32-28 lead into the half and scored the first two baskets of the second half to increase their lead to 36-28.

With the Golden Tigers ahead 46-39, SSU scored the next eight points to get in front 47-46 with 9:22 left. The teams traded baskets, and Tuskegee went back up by eight before Savannah State put together its late run.

During the tournament, Savannah State faced teams that beat them during the regular season. Spring Hill beat SSU by 16 on December 19, Miles beat the Tigers by 13 on Dec. 7, Central State edged SSU by two on Dec. 2, and Tuskegee used a late run to down Savannah State by 13 on January 4.

But during the tournament, SSU found another gear and turned the tables on the opposition, beating Spring Hill 79-74, Miles 63-61, Central State 53-48, and Tuskegee 67-66. In the championship game, the Tigers shot 52.2 percent from the field in the second half.

King, who finished with 19 points and eight rebounds, was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Landy, along with Plain, who ended the game with 16 points, were both named to the all-tournament team. Jaydon Cousin added five points, and Jeremiah Barze chipped in four points for the Tigers. Savannah State ends the tournament riding eight-game HBCU hoops winning streak, improving to 18-11, the most wins since the 2012-13 season when they had 19 victories.

Plain and Austin Lewis will leave SSU with two conference tournament rings from 2022 and 2025. The Tigers have also won SIAC titles in 1970, 1979, 1980, and 1981.

Savannah State will turn its attention to the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Tournament. The selection show will be on Sunday evening at 11:00 pm on NCAA.com

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SIAC coaches and sports information directors voted on the players selected for each team as well as the league’s Player of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Freshman of the Year and Coach of the Year.

Miles College guard Alvin Miles was named the SIAC Player of the Year while Golden Bears head coach Fred Watson earned Coach of the Year honors. Fort Valley State forward Hassane Diallo earned Defensive Player of the Year honors, Lane guard Elijah Greer Dawson received Newcomer of the Year, Edward Waters forward Myles Hosten notched Freshman of the Year honors while Morehouse guard Cedric Taylor III earned Elite 16 honors.

Miles, a native of Memphis, Tenn., was one of the SIAC’s top 10 scorers this season, averaging 15.9 points per game (10th in the conference). He became the first player in program to earn the league’s top player award since Avery Brown accomplished the feat in 2020. Miles was the only SIAC player this season to score 400 points, grab 100 rebounds and notch 100 assists. He finished with double-figure production in 22 of the Golden Bears’ 26 contests while recording seven games of 20 or more points.

Diallo registered 177 rebounds with 120 coming on the defensive side of the ball in 28 games this season. He also finished second in the league in blocked shots (42) while registering 22 steals and averaging 10.5 points per contest.

Dawson averaged 16.8 points while shooting 44.4% from the field, dishing 3.0 assists and connecting on 76.9% from the free throw line per game in 18 contests this season. Beyond his scoring, Dawson averaged 4.1 rebounds per game while tallying a total of 39 steals and six blocks on defense.

Hosten averaged 8.0 points while shooting 38.8% from the floor and notched 4.8 rebounds in 13 games this season.

Watson registered his third Coach of the Year honors at Miles and the ninth of his career. He led Miles to a SIAC-best 23-3 mark that includes a 19-1 record in conference play and a perfect 12-0 mark at home, the Golden Bears best record inside Knox-Windham Gymnasium in program history.

Player of the Year

Alvin Miles

Defensive Player of the Year

Hassane Diallo

Newcomer of the Year

Elijah Greer Dawson

Freshman of the Year

Coach of the Year

Myles Hosten

The complete listing of the SIAC all-conference selections and individual awards winners can be found below.

All-SIAC First Team

• Shakur Poteat, Albany State
• Alvin Miles, Miles
• Walter Peggs, Jr., Miles
• Cedric Taylor III, Morehouse
• Lavar Miller Jr., Kentucky State

All-SIAC Second Team

• Kevin Sesberry, Tuskegee
• Jalen Williams, Clark Atlanta
• Prince Davies III, Edward Waters
• Kusamae Draper, Tuskegee
• Blaise Wallace, Albany State

All-SIAC Third Team

• Steven Lyles, Spring Hill
• Shemani Fuller, Clark Atlanta
• Corey Trotter, Miles
• Aziel Blackwell, Kentucky State
• Khalil Genwright, LeMoyne-Owen

All-SIAC Freshman Team

• Myles Hosten, Edward Waters
• Rocco Lamuno, Spring Hill
• Abdoul Sacko, LeMoyne-Owen
• Brandon Peters, Morehouse
• Christian Gary, Albany State

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JACKSONVILLE, FLA.  – USTA Florida awarded its first-ever HBCU Tennis Program Grant to Edward Waters University (EWU), marking a significant milestone in both the university’s and USTA Florida’s history.  

Held at the Edward Waters University Tennis Complex on October 7, 2024, this event signified the official launch of USTA Florida’s HBCU Tennis Program Grant, which aims to provide critical funding to HBCU institutions in Florida. 

The grant, worth $100,000, will help EWU, the first Historically Black College in the state, further develop its tennis program, which played in its inaugural tennis season at the beginning of 2024. 

Laura Bowen, Executive Director of USTA Florida, highlighted the significance of the grant and USTA Florida’s commitment to HBCUs and the Black tennis community. “This grant is more than just money,” she said. “Today marks an important shift in USTA Florida’s history of service to our state and to the beautiful sport of tennis.” 

This grant is designed for immediate impact. EWU can apply the funds toward various needs, including court improvements, tennis equipment, scholarships for Florida students, and additional coach education. Bowen emphasized that this flexibility was shaped by conversations with Dr. Ivana Rich, Associate Vice President and Director of Athletics at EWU, and other HBCU leaders in Florida. 

Dr. Rich shared her vision for the growth of the university’s tennis program and the opportunities it will create for student-athletes. “We are deeply grateful to USTA Florida for awarding Edward Waters University this HBCU College Tennis Program Grant,” she said. “It represents a significant step forward for our newly established women’s tennis program and reinforces our commitment to providing quality athletic opportunities for our student-athletes. This support will enable us to enhance our tennis offerings, provide an exceptional experience for our student-athletes and engage more of our community in the sport of tennis.” 

The team is looking forward to putting the grant to use and Head Coach Marc Atkinson is excited to see the impact of the grant. “This HBCU Tennis grant will have a transformative effect on our tennis program and the student-athletes it serves,” he said. “With this grant, we will be able to purchase new equipment and training tools for our players, offer additional scholarships to attract talented student-athletes, and enhance our travel budget to compete in more tournaments.” 

Many of the players expressed their thanks to USTA Florida and are ready to get to work as the 2025 season approaches. “These improvements will not only benefit our current tennis players but will also help us attract and develop future talent, elevating the entire program to new heights,” Coach Atkinson added. 

Bowen closed out the event restating USTA Florida’s commitment to growing HBCUs and supporting EWU in any way possible. “This grant comes with a promise that we will continue to be your partner in growing this program for as long as it is in existence. We will stay connected with you, and together, we will develop more ways to support Edward Waters tennis.” 

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MACON, GA | On Saturday, February 22, 2025, Terance Mathis, one of Georgia’s most accomplished athletes, was officially inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame during a ceremony in Macon. Mathis, currently the head HBCU football coach at Morehouse College, has built a legacy of excellence from his high school days to his professional and coaching careers.

Mathis’ journey to football greatness began at Redan High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia. As a standout multi-sport athlete, he excelled in football, showcasing the talent that would later define his career. His high school performance earned him a scholarship to the University of New Mexico, where he became one of the most dominant receivers in NCAA history.

During his time at New Mexico, Mathis shattered multiple NCAA records, finishing his collegiate career with 263 receptions and 4,254 receiving yards. His dominance on the field earned him consensus All-American honors in 1989, and in recognition of his achievements, he was inducted into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame in 2011 and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2023.

Following his college success, Mathis entered the NFL in 1990, drafted by the New York Jets. He played four seasons with the team before joining the Atlanta Falcons in 1994, where he became a franchise legend. That year, Mathis made history with 111 receptions, making him just the eighth player in NFL history to surpass 100 catches in a single season. Over his eight seasons with the Falcons, Mathis amassed 573 receptions, 7,349 receiving yards, and 57 touchdowns—ranking third in franchise history for both receiving yards and touchdown receptions. His performance earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 1994.

After retiring as a player, Mathis transitioned into coaching, beginning as the offensive coordinator at Savannah State University in 2011. He later became the head coach at Pinecrest Academy in Georgia, focusing on player development and community engagement. In February 2024, Mathis was named head football coach at Atlanta-based HBCU Morehouse College, where he continues to inspire and mentor young athletes.

Mathis’ induction into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame marks yet another milestone in his storied career, honoring his contributions to sports in the state. He was recognized alongside fellow inductees such as Marquis Grisson (brother of current Morehouse Head Baseball Coach Antonio Grissom), Tim Hudson, Leo Mazzone, and Dennis Scott during the 69th Annual Induction Ceremony in Macon.

Reflecting on the honor, Mathis expressed gratitude to his family, coaches, and the Atlanta Falcons organization, which celebrated his achievement on social media. “Georgia sports legend, @coachmathis81. Congratulations on your @GAsportsHOF induction!” the Falcons tweeted.

Now leading Morehouse College’s HBCU football program, Terance Mathis continues to shape the future of the sport. His induction into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, along with his previous inductions into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame, highlights his incredible impact on the game. It is a testament to his dedication, skill, and lasting legacy in football.  For up-to-date athletic information on the Maroon Tigers, follow them on social media or online at www.morehouseathletics.com.

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It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news regarding the passing of Sterling Steward, Senior Associate Athletics Director/Chief Revenue Officer at Baltimore-HBCU Morgan State University, on February 26, 2025. Since joining the Morgan State Athletics Department in December 2022, Sterling played a vital role in advancing our programs, fostering partnerships, and strengthening the department’s financial and operational success. His leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication left an indelible mark on our student-athletes, staff, and the entire Morgan community.

“Sterling was more than a colleague—he was a respected leader, mentor, and friend,” said Dena Freeman-Patton, Vice President and Director for Intercollegiate Athletics. “His passion for athletics and his commitment to elevating Morgan’s programs were evident in all that he did. He worked tirelessly to ensure our student-athletes had the resources and opportunities to excel, and his impact will be felt for years to come. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, especially his three sons and sister, as we mourn this tremendous loss.”

Sterling’s time at Morgan was marked by strategic growth and collaboration, particularly in his work with the Division of Institutional Advancement, where he helped expand opportunities and build lasting relationships to support the University’s athletic programs. His contributions and legacy will continue to inspire us.

Morgan State University Athletics extends its heartfelt sympathies to Sterling’s loved ones, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. We will honor his memory in the days ahead and ensure that his work and passion for Morgan Athletics are never forgotten.

Sterling was also the athletics director at Georgia-HBCU Savannah State University from 2011 to 2018. While there, Steward oversaw 15 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I sports. During his tenure at SSU, the Tigers won Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Championships in men’s basketball, baseball, and women’s basketball, along with individual championships in men’s golf, tennis, and track & field.

Steward spent a year at Mississippi Valley State University in 2011 as the Senior Compliance Consultant for Athletics Administration. He served as the interim Director of Athletics/Associate Director of Athletics for Compliance at Alabama State University from 2009-10. Steward began his professional career at Xavier University in New Orleans as the Assistant Director of Athletics for Administration/Director of Recreational Sports.

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TUSKEGEE, Ala. — Tuskegee University is pleased to announce the appointment of O.C. Williams II as the new Defensive Coordinator for the Golden Tiger HBCU football program. Williams brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of defensive excellence to Tuskegee.

Prior to joining Tuskegee, Williams served as the Assistant Head Coach, Defensive Line Coach, and Recruiting Coordinator at Fort Valley State University during the 2022 season. Fort Valley State’s defensive unit evolved into one of the premier defenses in the SIAC from 2022 to 2024, showing consistent improvement each season in key areas such as pass rush, run defense, and forcing turnovers.

Their ability to limit opponents’ scoring and dictate the tempo of games was instrumental in shaping the team’s identity and keeping them competitive in the conference. Stopping the run became a hallmark of Fort Valley State’s defensive identity, with opponents struggling to establish a ground game against their front seven. By 2024, they had developed into one of the best run-stopping units in the SIAC.

The continued improvement of Fort Valley State’s defense was a major reason for their competitiveness in the SIAC. By 2024, they had solidified their reputation as a physical, disciplined, and aggressive unit that dictated games. Their ability to consistently stop the run, pressure quarterbacks, and create turnovers allowed them to control field position and give their offense more opportunities to score.

Before that, he was the Cornerbacks and Special Teams Coach at HBCU Alabama A&M University in 2021. Williams spent four years (2017-2020) at Reinhardt University, where he contributed to four Mid-South Conference titles and an NAIA National Championship runner-up finish.

His tenure at Reinhardt included roles as Defensive Line Coach, Run Game Coordinator, Recruiting Coordinator, and Defensive Coordinator. Under his leadership, the defense consistently ranked among the nation’s best, producing multiple All-Conference players and All-Americans. Williams’ coaching career also includes positions at the University of West Florida, University of North Carolina-Pembroke, McPherson College, East Mississippi Community College, and the Canadian Football League’s Edmonton Eskimos.

A graduate of Alcorn State University, Williams played as a defensive back and long snapper. He also played defensive back at Holmes Community College in Mississippi. Williams is set to begin his role immediately, aiming to elevate the Golden Tigers’ defense in the upcoming season.

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“The experience we got with those guys last year and the way that we played in the Fountain City Classic, defensively, is the ‘Dirty Blue’ defense that we know.  To take the momentum from that game and take it into this spring, hopefully, we’ll have a tremendous spring in terms of competition and turn that page from last year moving forward.”

The Golden Rams topped the SIAC in offense. If there was an area that needed some bolstering, it was the defense. If ASU can continue its progress on defense and expand its capabilities on offense. it should be in the position it desires at the end of the season. The Blue and Gold could look to be a top contender in the highly-competitive SIAC.

Gray returns to Bragg Stadium as opposing coach

The Golden Rams will play SWAC HBCU Florida A&M (FAMU) early on. The Sept. 13 game will be Gray’s homecoming. He is in the FAMU Sports Hall of Fame for his record-setting passing under legendary HBCU football head coach Billy Joe. Gray says he will be focused on the task at hand.  

“It’s really a tremendous opportunity for us at Albany State to come down and play a good football team. We’re really trying to make sure we understand the magnitude of it.  We’re going down to win a ballgame,” Gray said.  “All of the outside noise with me coming back and all that good stuff. We really want to test and see where we are as a football team.  To come down here and play well and hopefully come out of here with a victory is what it’s all about.”

Quinn Gray Jr joins the Golden Rams squad

This year, two Quinn Grays will be on the Albany State sideline.  Quinn Gray Jr, who graduates from Tallahassee’s Lincoln High School this year, will be playing for his father this season.  After a standout career with the Trojans, Gray Jr. decided to take his talents to where his father is coaching.  Gray’s other som, Ashton Chaney-Gray. also graduates from Lincoln High School and will attend ASU as well.  This is an honor for his sons to choose to play for him, but they get no favoritism from Quinn Sr.

“Quinn (Gray Jr.) and Ash (Ashton Chaney-Gray) signed to play for me. As a father, you just want to see your boys succeed. If the next level is afforded to them, then it’s afforded to them. Fortunately, they are good football players, and it’s not like I’m doing them a favor. I told them that, at the end of the day, if you’re not playing good football, then you can go somewhere else. Having them with me is a blessing in itself. 

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Virginia Union University, from the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, will face Miles College, from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, in the 2025 Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic in Canton on Aug. 31. For the first time in the six-year history of the Labor Day weekend game, the newly dubbed “Clash at The Classic” will feature the defending HBCU football champions from the CIAA and SIAC — two athletic conferences primarily composed of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

“Clash at The Classic”

Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m. at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium on the campus of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. NFL Network, which will provide coverage of the game, announced the teams and new conference arrangement today during its broadcast of the 2025 Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl in New Orleans, La.

“We are grateful to the commissioners and teams of the CIAA and SIAC for their commitment to playing in the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic game,” said Jim Porter, president & CEO of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. “The format of bringing in the defending conference champions sets up the ‘Clash at The Classic’ as an entertaining, well-matched game annually, with top-tier players representing their historic universities.”

Virginia Union head coach Alvin Parker and the Panthers are making their second appearance in Canton; they defeated Morehouse College 45-13 in the 2023 Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic. In 2024, the Panthers posted a 10-4 record that included two wins in the Division II NCAA tournament before falling to the eventual national runner-up Valdosta State Blazers in the quarterfinal round.

The 2025 “Clash at The Classic” will serve as Miles head coach Chris Goode’s first game at the helm of the Golden Bears. The program finished a historic 2024 season with a 10-3 record that included school records for most victories, most consecutive wins in a single year (10), and its first NCAA Division II playoff victory. The Golden Bears’ season also ended at the hands of Valdosta State, one week before the Blazers ousted Virginia Union.

Fans can purchase their seats now to see the game and energizing band performances featuring the Virginia Union Ambassadors of Sound Marching Band and the Miles College Purple Marching Machine. Tickets, starting at $40, are available here.

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“It’s special I’m truly honored and humbled to be here amongst some of the greatest of the game — not just HBCU but NFL guys like Shack Harris and Doug Williams — that’s an honor,” Shade told New Orleans Saints Media.

Shade has yet to coach a game at Alabama A&M — he was hired in December — but he earned his spot into coaching at the fourth iteration of the game at Miles College. In three seasons he took the Fairfield, AL-based HBCU from a one-win rebuild job to an SIAC champion and won the program’s first-ever Division II playoff game.

As one of the coaches of Team Robinson — named after Grambling State legend Eddie Robinson — Shade will get a chance to coach Miles offensive lineman Christian Twymon one last time. But he won’t be the only player that Shade has coached in New Orleans this week. 

“A big part of this week is also the career fair that the HBCU Legacy Bowl puts on. That’s a great event,” Shade said. “We’ve got a couple players here from Miles College — where I coached before — that are looking forward to it. They’ve got their resumes right, they’ve got their gear ready for it to maybe land a job outside of football.”

Shade will be working with Jackson State head coach T.C. Taylor who is coming off an 11-2 season in his second year, guiding Jackson State football to the Celebration Bowl. 

“I was very happy for him that they were able to win it in the SWAC conference that I’m in now. I’m excited to be in it, but it does present a huge challenge on that SWAC East side of things,” Shade said with a smile. “I’m going to enjoy this week with T.C. and hey, at some point during the season, we’ll get the chance to compete against each other. But he’s done a tremendous job and got a really good football team and it’s an honor for me to be a part of the conference.”

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Read the full letter here:

Additionally, the commissioners highlighted the growing disparities caused by varying state laws affecting Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies and other regulations. This inconsistency creates recruitment and retention challenges for HBCU student-athletes, further widening the competitive gap between HBCUs and wealthier institutions.

Despite these external challenges, the letter acknowledged the positive strides made under NCAA President Charlie Baker, including expanded health coverage, financial literacy training, and degree completion support for student-athletes. However, the commissioners emphasized that more must be done to ensure that HBCU athletes receive fair treatment and that national governance remains consistent.

The commissioners called on Congress to support legislation affirming that student-athletes should not be considered employees and to establish federal guidelines that preempt state law disparities. They also invited the Congressional Black Caucus to engage in discussions about the future of HBCU sports, stressing the need for continued advocacy to protect the legacy and opportunities within HBCU athletics.

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The two players have both knocked down 90 three-pointers in their first 21 games, which averages out to 4.29 three-pointers per game. That per-game average is the highest of all male players in Division I, Division II and Division III according to NCAA statistics. The prolific shooting hasn’t necessarily equated to wins for either program in the SIAC.

Kentucky State had an 8-8 conference record heading into the SIAC weekend of games on February 15, which is good for third place in the western division. Spring Hill is fifth in the division with a 6-11 conference record. Miller is the second-leading scorer in the SIAC averaging 19.1 points per game, while Peggs leads the HBCU conference, pouring in 26.4 points per game.

HBCU shooting reigns supreme in the NCAA

Miller began his career at Central State, a SIAC rival of Kentucky State, before transferring to Southern Nazarene University and eventually landing at KSU. Peggs doesn’t technically play for an HBCU although Spring Hill does compete in the SIAC. The senior sharpshooter began his career at Tennessee Tech before transferring to Spring Hill.

Reyne Smith from Louisville is the top three-point shooter in Division I basketball, but he averages only 3.84 three-pointers made per contest. He’s made 96 long balls this season through his first 25 games.

Peggs is the more efficient shooter of the two, making 46.5 percent of his three-pointers. That puts him at No. 5 in the country in Division II basketball. Miller is shooting 37.8 percent this season, he’s made 90 of his 238 attempts this year. He’s attempted more three-pointers than any other player in Division II basketball.

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Morehouse started strong, leading early in the first half, but Tuskegee took command before halftime and never looked back. Morehouse’s Sincere Key led his team with 15 points, but the Maroon Tigers struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 21.7% from three-point range. Despite solid efforts from Cedric Taylor III and Amahn Decker, Morehouse couldn’t overcome their shooting woes against Tuskegee’s disciplined defense.

The NBA’s involvement in hosting HBCU showcase games like this one highlights the growing recognition of Black college athletics on a national scale. Events like the HBCU NBA Classic provide student-athletes with major exposure while celebrating the rich culture and history of HBCUs.

In its fourth edition, the HBCU NBA Classic proved once again why these games are an essential part of the basketball landscape. Both Morehouse and Tuskegee showcased the best of HBCU basketball, leaving fans excited for future matchups on the NBA stage.

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OAKLAND, CA | The upcoming matchup between the Tuskegee Golden Tigers and the Morehouse Maroon Tigers is set to be a highlight of the NBA All-Star Weekend. Scheduled for February 15, 2025, at the Oakland Arena, this game is part of the NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T.

The Maroon Tigers, with their season’s momentum and recent significant victories, aim to showcase their growth and team cohesion. The Maroon Tigers have won four of their past five games, heading into the weekend.  

On the other hand, the Tuskegee Golden Tigers have lost four of their prior six games, as they have been preparing diligently for this marquee event. Their season has been characterized by strategic plays and a focus on defense. 

The NBA HBCU Classic not only highlights the athletic talents of these institutions but also celebrates HBCU culture and the longstanding rivalry between these two teams. Fans can anticipate a game filled with intensity, strategic plays, and a showcase of collegiate basketball excellence.

Morehouse Maroon Tigers

The Maroon Tigers have demonstrated a solid season, with a notable victory over Howard University on January 20, 2025, marking their first win against Howard in three seasons.

• Offense: The Maroon Tigers average 72.2 points per game, with a field goal percentage of 40.1%. Their three-point shooting stands at 29.0%, indicating room for improvement in perimeter scoring.
• Defense: Defensively, they allow an average of 66.5 points per game, showcasing a solid defense. They average 8.8 steals per game, reflecting their ability to force turnovers.

Tuskegee Golden Tigers

The Tuskegee Golden Tigers have a balanced offensive attack, with four players averaging double figures in scoring.

• Offense: In the game against Winston-Salem State, the Golden Tigers scored 71 points, with a field goal percentage of 54.2%, indicating efficient shooting.
• Defense: The Golden Tigers have held two opponents to 50 points or less this season.

Review of the Morehouse Maroon Tigers 2024-25 Basketball Season

Under the leadership of Head Coach Douglas Whittler, the team has navigated challenges and celebrated significant victories.

A highlight of the season was the historic win against Howard University on January 20, 2025. This victory was particularly momentous as it marked Morehouse’s first triumph over Howard in the past three seasons. Transfer student Sincere Key made a notable breakout game, contributing 15 points by the middle of the second half.  Jayen Gray led the way with a career-high 22 points.  The team’s preparation and defense were pivotal in countering Howard’s strong three-point shooting, ultimately leading to a final score of 79-76 in favor of Morehouse.

Earlier in the season, the Maroon Tigers secured a victory against Valdosta State Blazers, with a close score of 84-80. 

Senior Amahn Decker highlighted has anchored the post, while sharp-shooters Omar Rowe and Sincere Key provide outside shooting.  Transfer JerMontae Hill has been versatile, playing four positions throughout the season. Cedric Taylor III ranks in the top 10 in the conference in points, rebounds, field goal percentage, and blocked shots.  Mid-season addition, Dre Watson, has been a force defensively and on the boards.

As the season progressed, the Maroon Tigers continued to demonstrate their commitment to excellence, setting their sights on championship aspirations. Coach Whittler has emphasized the importance of sacrifice and teamwork, aiming to guide the team toward achieving their ultimate goals.

As both teams take the national stage at NBA All-Star Weekend, this matchup serves as an opportunity to honor their histories and display the high level of competition within HBCU basketball. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, NBA TV, and TruTV.

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

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

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

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JACKSON, Tenn. – Lane College is pleased to announce the hiring of Stanley Conner as the new Head Football Coach. Conner brings over three decades of coaching experience at the collegiate, HBCU and high school levels, along with a proven track record of developing championship-winning teams and athletes.
 
Conner joins Lane College after spending the last eight seasons at Miles College, where he served as the Running Backs Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. During his tenure at Miles, Conner played a crucial role in developing standout HBCU football players, including the SIAC Offensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player, Justin Hardy, in 2017. He also helped lead the Golden Bears to three SIAC Championships (2018, 2019, and 2024). The 2024 squad made history when they won their opening round game of the NCAA Division II National Tournament.
 
“Stanley Conner is a proven winner, and his depth of experience will be an invaluable asset to our football program,” said Derrick Burroughs, Director of Athletics at Lane College. “We are excited to welcome Coach Conner to the Lane College family. His leadership and passion for developing student-athletes on and off the field align perfectly with our mission to build a competitive, disciplined, and successful football program.”
 
Prior to his time at Miles College, Conner served as a head coach at Benedict College (2007-2011) and Concordia-Alabama (2014-2015), where he led teams to impressive successes. Conner’s career also includes coaching stops at Alabama A&M and Alabama State, where he helped lead teams to multiple SWAC Eastern Division Championships.
 
“I am excited for the opportunity to lead the Lane College football program,” said Conner. “I look forward to building a winning culture and mentoring young men to succeed both on the field and in life. I am thankful for the trust that Dr. Donald Comer and the administration as well as Athletic Director Burroughs have placed in me, and I am ready to get started.”

 
During his tenure at Alabama A&M, he coached the secondary, running backs, and served as assistant head coach. He spent three seasons with the Bulldogs before heading to Lanett High School as the head coach. In 1998, he returned to Alabama A&M as the assistant head coach. Conner helped lead the Bulldogs to SWAC Eastern Division Championships in 2000, 2004, 2005, and 2006.
 
Conner’s playing career includes a four-year stint as an HBCU football letterman at Jackson State University, where he helped lead the Tigers to three SWAC Championships and NCAA Division I-AA playoff appearances in 1981 and 1982. After his playing days, Conner briefly pursued a career in professional football with the New Orleans Breakers of the USFL and the Ottawa Rough Riders of the CFL.
 
Conner, a Theodore, Alabama native, has deep ties to the Southern football community and is known for his ability to recruit, develop talent, and build strong relationships with players. He and his wife, Tonya, have two daughters, Shelandra and Shequita.

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“We are looking forward to another exciting year for Tuskegee football,” said Tuskegee Athletic Director, Reginald Ruffin. “Our fans have always been a huge part of our success, and we’re thrilled to host four home games in 2025. This is a great schedule that gives us the opportunity to face off against some top-level competition both within the SIAC and non-conference, and we look forward to the season.”

The Golden Tigers will open the season for the fifth consecutive year at the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery in the Red Tails Classic on Sunday, Aug. 31. This year the non-conference showdown is against Winston-Salem State in the opener.

Tuskegee University will then host their home opener on Sept. 6, against Central State at Cleve Abbott Memorial Alumni Stadium. This game will mark the Golden Tigers’ first home contest of the season as they look to establish a strong record in front of their fans.

On Sept. 13, Tuskegee will hit the road again, traveling to Jackson, Mississippi, for a clash against Jackson State. This will be their first matchup between schools since the teams met in the 5th Quarter Classic in Mobile in 2017, setting the stage for an exciting, high-energy game.

The Golden Tigers will then travel to Columbia, South Carolina, on Sept. 20, to take on Benedict in another crucial SIAC game. This road test will be the first meeting with Benedict since the 2022 SIAC title game and will be key for Tuskegee as they continue their SIAC slate.

Next, the Golden Tigers will return home on Sept. 27 to host Fort Valley State. The Golden Tigers will look to defend their home turf once more against a tough opponent in this important conference contest.

On Oct. 4, Tuskegee University will battle in the Tuskegee-Morehouse Classic, facing Morehouse in what is an historic and always highly anticipated matchup. This neutral-site game will showcase the fierce rivalry between the two programs, dating back to 1902.

On Oct. 18, Tuskegee will travel for a contest with the Albany State Rams. The matchup will revive another conference series that has not been played since 2019.

The next two games are both inside Abbott Memorial Stadium, first on Oct. 25 hosting Allen. Following Allen, the Golden Tigers will host their annual Homecoming game on November 1, as they take on Lane.

In the final conference game of the season, Tuskegee will head to Fairfield, Alabama, on Nov. 8 to face in-state rival Miles in a pivotal conference showdown.

“Our goal is to contend for the SIAC Championship and continue the legacy of excellence that Tuskegee football is known for,” said Head Coach Aaron James.

Dr. Mark A. Brown, President and CEO agrees. “I’m looking forward to what AD Ruffin and Coach James are doing. Our student athletes are powerhouses on and off the field and this will help position the university for a stellar season. That’s the Tuskegee Way!”

Kickoff times for all games on the schedule will be announced at a later date. Tuskegee fans are encouraged to stay tuned for more updates and to support the Golden Tigers throughout the 2025 season!

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FORT VALLEY, Ga. – Fort Valley State University (FVSU) is proud to announce the appointment of Marlon Watson as the head football coach of the Wildcats HBCU football program. A seasoned coach with a track record of success at multiple collegiate levels, Watson brings a wealth of experience in player development, defensive strategy, and special teams excellence.

Over the past two seasons, Watson was a key member of the Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) coaching staff, serving as the special teams coordinator and defensive ends coach. During his tenure, he played an instrumental role in PVAMU’s 2023 SWAC Western Division Championship and led improvements in multiple statistical categories, including PATs, field goals, and net punting. He also helped mentor top athletes, including All-SWAC honorees and future professional players.

“We are excited to welcome Marlon Watson to the Wildcat family,” said President Paul Jones, Ph.D. “His depth of experience, leadership qualities, and ability to elevate student-athletes on and off the field make him an outstanding choice to lead our football program. We look forward to seeing the energy and excellence he brings to Wildcat Nation.”

Before joining PVAMU, Watson served as the defensive coordinator at Upper Iowa University in 2021, where he coached a first-team All-NSIC defensive lineman and helped the team achieve national rankings in key defensive categories. He also spent three seasons as the defensive coordinator at another Division II HBCU Elizabeth City State University, where he significantly improved the team’s overall defensive performance despite challenges such as no spring ball and school closures due to hurricanes. His coaching experience also includes stints at FCS HBCU Alabama A&M University, where he developed standout players such as All-SWAC linebacker Kenny Davis and played a key role in recruiting some of the program’s most dominant athletes, including record-setting HBCU quarterback Aqeel Glass and running back Jordan Bentley.

“I look forward to seeing Coach Marlon Watson’s leadership as our head football coach. He is an outstanding and authentic man with a strong passion for developing young men,” said Interim Athletic Director Daphnie Johnson. “His track record of competitive success at the collegiate levels makes me confident that he will lead our football program to new heights. We welcome his wife Jasmine, and his children, Brayden, Brianna, and Brynleigh, to the Valley.”

Additionally, Watson has coached at Georgia Military College and Bethel University in Tennessee, where he helped lead the team to back-to-back Mid-South Conference Championships and multiple NAIA playoff appearances. His experience extends to the high school level as well, having served as the defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at Joliet West High School in Illinois, where he developed multiple All-Conference players.

Watson shared his excitement about joining FVSU and leading the Wildcats:

“Thank you to President Paul Jones, Interim Athletic Director Daphnie Johnson, and the entire search committee for the opportunity to be the head football coach. I am grateful and extremely honored for the opportunity to lead the Fort Valley State University football program. FVSU has a rich tradition of academic and athletic excellence.  I look forward to serving our phenomenal student-athletes, partnering with our dedicated staff and fostering a positive relationship with our passionate community to build on that legacy.”

A native of Chicago, Illinois, Watson was a linebacker at Northern Illinois University under Head Coach Joe Novak. As a key player for the Huskies, he contributed to a program that achieved a No. 10 national ranking in 2003, securing victories over nationally ranked opponents Maryland, Alabama and Iowa State. During his collegiate career, Northern Illinois was a three-time MAC West Co-Champion (2001, 2002, 2004) and won the 2004 Silicon Valley Bowl. He earned a bachelor’s degree in communications from Northern Illinois and later obtained a master’s degree in education from Bethel University in Tennessee.

A dedicated family man, Watson is married to Jasmine Watson, and together they have three children: Brayden, Briann, and Brynleigh.

A formal press conference introducing Coach Marlon Watson will be held at 11 am on Friday, February 14 at the Christine and Willie C. Jones Amphitheater. All media, fans, and members of the Wildcat community are invited to attend.

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Jackson, who coached eight seasons at Fort Valley State, was reported missing on Monday after he never returned home from his job driving Uber. His car was located later that day in Bon Air. The car was unlocked and with items scattered about the seats and floorboard, according to investigative reports.

His wife, Jill Jackson, told WGXA that he went to Dollar General on Sunday night while working. She said she got a text around 2 AM from the former coach, who was usually home around midnight. The text messaged asked his wife if she knew his social security number. The next morning a missing person report was filed and police located his silver BMW later that day. 

It is not clear if foul play is suspected in his death at this time, as an investigation is still ongoing.

Samuel Jackson coached at the Division II HBCU from 2011 through 2018. He led Fort Valley State to a 21-9 record during the 2013-14 and led the team to the SIAC championship game that season. He resigned in 2018. 

The 59-year-old was a 2019 Henry County (GA) Sports Hall of Fame member who graduated from Headland High School in 1982 and served as a coach for the Rams basketball team for two seasons from 2020-22.

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Rich Freeman served as the head football coach at Morehouse College for over 16 years, leaving a significant impact on the institution’s athletic community. During his tenure, Freeman achieved a balanced overall record of 75-75 and led the team to an appearance in the NCAA Division II Playoffs. His exemplary leadership at the prestigous HBCU earned him the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Coach of the Year award in 2018.

In November 2022, Freeman announced his resignation from Morehouse College. Expressing gratitude, he stated, “Kimm and I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire Morehouse Community for embracing and partnering with us to help develop men, while raising our own children on its historic campus for the last 16 years!!”

Following Freeman’s departure, Morehouse College sought new leadership for its football program.In February 2023, the institution announced the hiring of alumnus Gerard Wilcher, an assistant coach from Rice University, as the new head coach. Wilcher, a four-year football letterman at Morehouse, lasted one season and won one game. He was replaced by Terance Mathis, who won one game his first season in 2024.

Freeman’s legacy at Morehouse is characterized by his dedication to developing student-athletes both on and off the field.His commitment to excellence left its mark at that HBCU. 

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The Maroon Tigers (9-8) delivered a near-flawless performance, highlighted by sharp three-point shooting and clutch defense. Howard, the MEAC leader, suffered its second-consecutive loss to a Division II HBCU in less than a week, following a defeat to Bowie State.

First Half Dominance

Morehouse set the tone early, silencing the home crowd with an efficient offense led by sophomore guard Sincere Key, who drained two quick three-pointers. Forward Cedric Taylor III added another from beyond the arc, and the Maroon Tigers surged to a double-digit lead with a high-flying dunk by Omar Rowe off a lob from JerMontae Hill. By halftime, Morehouse led 40-28, thanks to 57% shooting from three-point range and stifling defense that forced seven turnovers.

Howard’s Rally Falls Short

Howard clawed back in the second half, using a 12-2 run to trim the deficit to two. But Morehouse responded with timely three-pointers from Key and Jaden Gray, who led all scorers with 22 points. With under three minutes remaining, the teams traded leads before Taylor III buried a 25-foot three-pointer to put Morehouse ahead for good.

In the final seconds, Gray’s two free throws extended the lead to 79-76. Howard had one last chance, but a potential game-tying three-pointer fell short, sending Morehouse into celebration.

Key Stats and Performers

The Maroon Tigers shot 44% from three-point range, with Taylor III and Key combining for eight triples. Amahn Decker anchored the defense with pivotal stops and rebounds, while Gray’s clutch performance solidified the historic upset.

This MLK Day victory solidifies Morehouse’s spot as a consistently high performing HBCU basketball program and fuels momentum for its upcoming SIAC schedule.

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“This decision ensures that winning a conference championship will mean a guaranteed shot at the national title,” said Darius Satterfield, a student-athlete representative from Elizabeth City State University. “Every football player deserves the chance to compete for a championship after earning their spot on the field.”

Other Legislative Highlights

Delegates also approved six additional proposals, including a significant policy allowing student-athletes in their first collegiate year to compete in up to 30% of the maximum games without using a season of eligibility. This aims to support player development, roster flexibility, and the overall transition to collegiate athletics.

Additionally, a women’s wrestling championship was approved, with the inaugural event set for 2026. Other measures focused on simplifying academic progress requirements, extending civic engagement opportunities, and enhancing medical evaluation timelines.

These changes reflect Division II’s commitment to fostering fairness, academic success, and holistic development for student-athletes. By streamlining regulations and expanding opportunities, the division takes a significant step forward in addressing the evolving needs of its member institutions and athletes.

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Savannah, Georgia – Savannah State University head men’s HBCU basketball coach Horace Broadnax announced his retirement on Monday, January 6th. Assistant Coach Clevan Thompson will assume the Interim Head Coach role, effective immediately.

“We thank Coach Broadnax for his leadership of the men’s basketball program here at Savannah State,” remarked Director of Athletics, Opio Mashariki. “I have immense respect and gratitude for everything Coach Broadnax has done, we congratulate him on his retirement and wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.”

Broadnax spent 20 seasons at Savannah State after being named the program’s 11^th head coach in history on April 11, 2005, and spearheaded three HBCU championships during his tenure.

Under Broadnax’s leadership, the Tigers achieved significant success. The 2011-12 season saw the Tigers win their first-ever Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Regular Season Championship with a 14-2 conference record, earning a berth in the National Invitation Tournament (NIT). The Tigers repeated this achievement in 2018, securing their second MEAC Regular Season Championship. Broadnax also led SSU to appearances in the College Insider.com Tournament (CIT) in 2013 and 2016. In 2022, Savannah State claimed the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Men’s Basketball Tournament Title, which earned them an automatic bid to the NCAA Division II Tournament.

“I’m happy about my decision to retire here at Savannah State,” said Coach Broadnax. “The experience here has been very rewarding and I am extremely excited for my future as well as the future of the program.

Interim Head Coach Clevan Thompson, a 2003 graduate of Savannah State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Thompson spent nearly two decades coaching boys’ basketball at nearby Bethesda Academy, leading the Blazers to twelve Final Four appearances, eight State Championship game appearances, and two State Titles. His teams claimed the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) state championship in 2012 and the South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA) Class AAA state title in 2015.

“I’m excited to take the leadership role of this program,” replied Coach Thompson. “Coach Broadnax has left a positive mark on this program and I am up for the challenge in leading the the team and building on his legacy.”

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Alabama HBCU Miles College has named Chris Goode as its new head football coach, effective immediately. Goode is a former stalwart for the University of Alabama and in the NFL and looks to bring his wealth of football acumen to the Golden Bears program. Goode replaces another Alabama football great, Sam Shade, who led the Golden Bears to a 10-3 record, a Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) championship, and a berth in the NCAA Division II playoffs in 2024. Shade was named head coach at Alabama A&M in December.

“We are excited for the future of Miles College football under the direction of Coach Chris Goode and are confident that Coach Goode’s leadership will bring continued success to Miles College football,” said Fred Watson, Miles Director of Athletics.

Goode will be formally introduced at a press conference on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 11:30 a.m., at the Williams Welcome and Admissions Center, located on 59th Street on the campus of Miles College. The press conference will be viewable to all fans via the Miles College Facebook page.

This will be Goode’s first head coaching stint on the collegiate level. After his playing career concluded, he served as the defensive coordinator for the Birmingham Steeldogs of the Arena Football League. He has stayed connected with young athletes through his own Goode Elite Prep, a post-graduate academy for student-athletes. With his extensive local, statewide, and national connections, Goode is uniquely positioned to recruit talent and drive fundraising efforts for the Miles football program, while continuing to raise the profile of the HBCU.

“Chris Goode’s leadership and dedication to student development makes him the ideal choice to guide our football program forward,” said Miles President Bobbie Knight. “We are excited to see how his guidance and vision will propel our student-athletes to continued success both on the field and in the classroom.”

Goode was drafted in the 10th round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts after a standout collegiate career at Alabama. He played his entire seven-year NFL career for the Colts, finishing with seven interceptions, six fumble recoveries, two sacks, and a touchdown in 96 regular season contests (66 starts). He has had multiple business and sports-related ventures since his retirement, including serving as the president of the National Football League Player Association (NFLPA) Birmingham Chapter, which was named Chapter of the Year under his stewardship in 2016.

The Golden Bears look to remain as one of the top HBCU football programs in Division II under Goode. Last season, they went 10-3, winning the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title and advancing to the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs while finishing the season nationally ranking for the first time.

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TUSKEGEE, Ala. – Tuskegee University Quarterbacks Coach and Director of Football Operations, Clinton Smith Jr., has been selected to represent HBCU football as one of 25 NCAA coaches invited to participate in the prestigious 2025 NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy.

The NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy is designed to provide current, full-time college football coaches at NCAA member schools with an educational platform to develop leadership skills, build connections, and further their coaching careers.

As part of the program, Smith will engage in a wide range of discussions with industry professionals and esteemed peers, enhancing his ability to lead, serve, and teach student-athletes effectively both on and off the field.

Topics will cover a variety of essential areas, including fostering effective communication with campus and community stakeholders, building a program culture that prioritizes the holistic success of student-athletes, managing football program budgets, and refining coaching strategies and philosophies. Equally important will be discussions around managing the personal challenges that come with life as a coach.

The 2025 Coaches Academy, offered in partnership with the NFL, will provide Smith with a valuable network of supportive colleagues and mentors, who will guide him through the challenges of a coaching career. Upon completion, Smith will be better equipped to excel in his current role and advance his career, leveraging a wealth of leadership tools and a robust support system.

The program will take place February 20-22, 2025, in Indianapolis, Ind. In addition to the 25 NCAA coaches, the NFL will also invite 25 former NFL players who are now coaching at various levels, including collegiate, high school, or professional football.

About Clinton Smith Jr.

Clinton Smith, Jr. joined the Tuskegee University HBCU football staff in 2022 after a year at Miles where he served as the quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator. In his lone season with the Golden Bears, Smith helped the program earn their third consecutive Western Division crown before falling in the SIAC Championship game.
 
Prior to joining Miles, Smith proved to be a prominent high school coach in the state of Alabama after six years as the head coach at Hillcrest-Evergreen (Ala.) High School where he led the Jaguars to six straight Alabama 3A Playoff appearances. Smith and his staff won the 3A State Championship in 2017 after defeating Randolph County, 26-14, setting school records for wins and points scored in a season.

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Here’s a playful take on the four major HBCU conferences as love interests:

CIAA – The Sentimental Sweetheart

The CIAA is the high school sweetheart you’ve known forever. They’re steeped in tradition, full of nostalgia, and have a knack for throwing a good party (see: the CIAA Tournament). They’re a little old-school, valuing history and loyalty, but they also know how to evolve when needed. They might not always bring the flashiest date to the dance, but their warmth and deep-rooted connection keep you coming back.

– Attraction Point: Strong sense of history and tradition.

– Favorite Date Spot: A cozy gym packed with fans, cheering for their favorite teams in an electric tournament atmosphere.

SIAC – The Steady Romantic

The SIAC is the one who brings stability and a touch of Southern charm. They’re about quiet consistency, focusing on the values of family and community. They may not be the flashiest or loudest, but their effort to uplift and nurture their partner shines through. They’re the person who brings you a plate at the family cookout and remembers the little things.

– Attraction Point: Dependable, grounded, and supportive.

– Favorite Date Spot: A Saturday afternoon at a historic football stadium, surrounded by barbecue and good vibes.

MEAC – The Ambitious Achiever

The MEAC is the high-achieving, career-focused love interest who’s always working toward the next big thing. They have big dreams and an eye for excellence, often punching above their weight in academics and athletics. They value your ambitions too and love to share success stories, like celebrating their wins in the Celebration Bowl or making waves in the NCAA.

– Attraction Point: Sharp, driven, and passionate about making an impact.

– Favorite Date Spot: Courtside at March Madness, showing off their competitive side.

– – –

SWAC – The Life of the Party

The SWAC is the charismatic, fun-loving partner who knows how to turn heads. With bold energy and a flair for spectacle, they’re the type who always has you laughing, dancing, and enjoying life. They come with a loud, proud family (their fans), and while they may sometimes be a bit chaotic, their authenticity is irresistible.

– Attraction Point: High energy, unapologetically themselves, and proud of their roots.

– Favorite Date Spot: A jam-packed football stadium on game day, complete with an incredible halftime show.

—

That was sweet. So then we had one more question for AI: Ok, now give me the downside to dating each conference?

Which conference would your HBCU choose to date? ?

Here’s a cheeky breakdown of the downsides to dating each HBCU conference: (Click Page Two)

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The HBCU has made significant upgrades in the last few years and exposed student athletes to competitive opportunities. In addition to lights, the university has purchased new buses branded with the Tuskegee logos to transport student athletes to all our athletic contests. 

“We have enjoyed upgrades for all of our athletic teams, and this fall celebrated lights on the football field,” said Athletic Director Reginald Ruffin. “The lights will be added to the baseball and softball fields and will help expand our schedule within the division. This funding will help to support athletics and student success and so much more.”

Tuskegee University is creating multiple opportunities to expose athletes to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The university recently announced that the men’s basketball team would be competing in the NBA HBCU Classic against Morehouse College in California during the NBA All-Star weekend. The men’s team also competed in a tournament in the Virgin Islands.

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“CLARK ATLANTA UNIVERSITY is the choice…. As a father I am forever indebted to the love and #DaddyDaughter love that is real….,” Tyrese wrote. “Through it all my daughter ON HER OWN has decided that CLARK ATLANTA.

Ironically, Tyrese was recently in Atlanta observing HBCU culture. Back in August he showed up at the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge at the start of the season as Florida A&M took on Norfolk State. He was there to promote his movie ‘1992.’

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

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

“FAMU – I’m so inspired right now.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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FORT VALLEY, Ga. — Division II HBCU Fort Valley State University (FVSU) has announced Kenny Ray as the interim head coach of Wildcat football. He previously held the position prior to the hiring of former head coach Shawn Gibbs, who left his post at Fort Valley State University on December, 6th 2024 to become the head coach at North Carolina A&T.

Ray, who has been with FVSU since February 2020, most recently served as the associate head coach, offensive line coach, and run game coordinator. During his tenure, Ray’s offensive line played a pivotal role in the team’s success, paving the way for the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference’s (SIAC) top rushers, including current Green Bay Packer Emanuel Wilson and standout Brandon Marshall. Under Ray’s leadership, the 2024 offensive line allowed the fewest sacks in the SIAC.

Ray’s extensive coaching career spans over two decades, including 15 seasons at Division I HBCU programs such as Tennessee State, Howard, Alabama State, and North Carolina A&T. He also has experience at the FBS level, having coached at the University of Louisiana-Monroe from 1999 to 2003. Before joining FVSU, he spent seven seasons as the offensive line coach and assistant head coach at Gardner-Webb University.

A national search is currently underway to identify the next head coach for Wildcat football.

About Kenny Ray

Kenneth Ray started his first season with Fort Valley State as the Assistant Head Coach/Offensive Line/Run Game Coordinator in February 2020. He comes to FVSU after spending the past seven seasons as the Offensive Line/Assistant Head Coach at Gardner-Webb University.

Coach Ray spent time as Offensive Coordinator at North Carolina A&T and his line cleared a path for running back Michael Ferguson to finish his career with 2,524 yards and 27 touchdowns – including a 1,000-yard season in 2007. Ferguson finished his career as the sixth-leading rusher in school history.

 As a player, Coach Ray was a three-year starter from 1992-1994 at the University of Southern Mississippi, where he helped the Golden Eagles to a pair of winning seasons. USM defeated LSU, 20-18, on the road in his final college game in 1994. During his time at USM, Coach Ray was a teammate of future NFL Hall of Famer Brett Favre.

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Savannah, Georgia-Savannah State University Athletics has announced the hiring of Florentino “Tino” Burgos as the new head coach of the Tigers’ HBCU baseball program.

Burgos comes to “ The Marsh” with a wealth of experience as a head coach, with his most recent post coming at Florida Memorial University, where he spent eight seasons, leading the Lions to their most successful era of baseball in program history. “Becoming the head baseball coach at Savannah State University is more than an opportunity, it’s a calling to lead, inspire, and elevate young men both on and off the field,” remarked Coach Burgos. “Together, we will build a culture of excellence, resilience, and pride that represents the very best of Tiger Nation.”

During Burgos’ tenure at the Miami Gardens, Florida-based HBCU, the FMU baseball program developed into one of the best baseball teams among Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and grew to be a highly competitive program in The Sun Conference, often referred to be the toughest baseball conference in the NAIA.
In 2023, Burgos won the Black College World Series championship, defeating fellow SIAC school Albany State 5-4 in the title game.

“We are excited to have someone of the caliber of Tino Burgos to lead our baseball program,” remarked SSU Director of Athletics Opio Mashariki. “Our search for a new coach required us to do a deep dive to find someone who will continue the success of the program, and I am confident that we have found that person in Coach Burgos.”
Burgos takes over a Savannah State team that finished 2024 with an impressive 31-17 overall record and represented the SIAC at the 2024 NCAA Division II Baseball Tournament.

In addition to the many FMU players selected for the Sun Conferences’ All-Conference Team since 2018, more than 10 FMU players have received the Sun Conferences’ All-Academic Team honors each year, demonstrating the culture of academic excellence that Burgos has established.
In 2019, FMU Baseball achieved a No. 1 ranking in the Black College Nines National HBCU Baseball Poll for the first time in their history and Burgos was named HBCU Coach of the Year by Black College Nines. That year, FMU finished the season tied for third in the Sun Conference and reached the Sun Conference Tournament for the first time in over 15 years.

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SIAC Commissioner Dr. Anthony Holloman, meanwhile, spoke with HBCU Gameday regarding the league’s attractiveness to potential institutions in general.  

“The brand is growing and for any institutions that are interested in the SIAC, it should be the right fit for our mission and our vision,” Holloman said. “We pride ourselves on being diligent with any inquiries we get. We haven’t received any inquiries. I personally haven’t made any overtures.”

Holloman said it makes sense that institutions in the league’s footprint would have an interest. The league currently has a total of 15 institutions — with a mix of public and private universities and a predominately white institution (Spring Hill College).

“The SIAC believes that it is a special and strong brand,” Holloman said. “We would not be surprised that people are interested in us. But we’ll be thoughtful and go through an operation that is driven by the council of presidents.”

Valdosta State football is set to take on an HBCU from the CIAA, Virginia Union, in the third round of the D2 Football playoffs.

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VALDOSTA, Ga. — The end to a historic 2024 HBCU football season for Miles College came on Saturday afternoon at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium as No. 22 Miles lost to No. 1 Valdosta State 33-17. The loss snapped the Golden Bears’ 10-game win streak but did not put a damper on a campaign that saw the team reach several significant milestones, including most victories, most consecutive wins in a single year, and a first-ever win in the NCAA Division II Playoffs.

Miles College (10-3) had several opportunities early to make the game a lot closer early. But the Golden Bears never got in the end zone in the first three quarters, being held to a 28-yard field goal by Roderick Smith over the first 30 minutes. After driving from its own 1-yard line to get the ball to midfield late in the second quarter, Kamren Ivory threw an interception that VSU (11-0) converted into a field goal at the end of the half for a 16-3 advantage.

The HBCU football champions of the SIAC held serve through most of the third quarter before VSU took control. Facing a third-and-goal from the Miles 18, the Blazers got the benefit of a personal foul penalty that gave them new life. Blake Hester punched it in from three yards out with 37 seconds left to extend the lead. On the ensuing kickoff, Miles was unable to recover the kickoff and VSU recovered at the Miles 13. After a penalty, Hester scored his third touchdown of the game on an 18-yard run, giving VSU two touchdowns in nine seconds and a 30-3 lead with 27 seconds left in the third.

Miles got touchdown passes from Ivory to Jaih Andrews (six yards) and Franck Pierre (20 yards) in the fourth quarter but the hole was far too steep from which to climb back even. Ivory finished with 224 yards passing, Jonero Scott was the top rusher (54 yards on 17 carries) and Jaquel Fells led the receivers with 92 yards on seven receptions.

Defensively, Jeremiah Hudson-Davis had a team-high seven tackles and Lashon Young added six stops. Jamichel Rogers (five tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss) and Zion Sharpe (three tackles, sack) were strong on the line of scrimmage as well for the Golden Bears in the NCAA Division II Playoffs. 

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Valdosta State comes into the game with one of the most dominant defenses in Division II football, allowing just 9.1 points per game and holding opponents to 245.3 yards per game. Offensively, the Blazers average an impressive 43.1 points per game, led by quarterback Sammy Edwards, who has thrown for 2,449 yards and 23 touchdowns. Running backs Blake Hester and Alfonso Franklin have combined for 1,325 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns, providing a balanced attack. Receiver Rodney Bullard is a key target, amassing 766 yards and nine touchdowns this season.

Miles College, riding high after its historic 14-13 win over Carson-Newman, has been a surprise contender this postseason. That victory marked the first NCAA playoff win for the HBCU program, showcasing their resilience.

The Golden Bears are averaging 29.8 points per game while holding opponents to 16.9 points. Their defense, which has forced 24 interceptions this season, will be critical in slowing down Valdosta State’s high-powered offense. Offensively, quarterback Kamren Ivory has thrown for 1,476 yards and 14 touchdowns, while running back Javonta Leatherwood has tallied 393 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns .

This matchup pits Valdosta State’s explosive offense and stifling defense against Miles College’s scrappy and opportunistic style. The Golden Bears will look to build on their momentum, but they face a formidable challenge against a Valdosta State team with championship aspirations. Expect a hard-fought battle with playoff intensity as both teams vie for a spot in the quarterfinals.

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Miles came out strong in the first quarter. Quarterback Kamren Ivory led an efficient 11-play drive that ended with an 11-yard touchdown pass to Jaquel Fells, putting the Golden Bears ahead 7-0. Carson-Newman responded in the second quarter, tying the game at 7 after Jayden Sullins capped a 60-yard drive with a 2-yard touchdown run. Later in the quarter, the Miles defense forced a fumble deep in Carson-Newman territory. Running back Jonero Scott capitalized with a 5-yard touchdown run, giving the Golden Bears a 14-7 lead.

Carson-Newman trimmed the deficit with a 43-yard field goal before halftime, making it 14-10. Early in the fourth quarter, the Eagles added another field goal, cutting the lead to 14-13. With less than two minutes to play, Miles fumbled while trying to run out the clock, giving Carson-Newman one last chance. However, safety Malachi Oglen made the play of the game, intercepting a pass deep in Miles territory to seal the victory.

The Golden Bears’ defense, led by linebacker Jeremiah Hudson-Davis with nine tackles and Jamichael Rogers with a critical sack, delivered in key moments. Offensively, Ivory threw for 84 yards and a touchdown, while Scott rushed for 48 yards and a score. Carson-Newman’s standout performer, Sullins, rushed for 134 yards and a touchdown, but costly turnovers and missed opportunities plagued the Eagles.

This win is a huge step for Miles College and HBCU football, showing the competitiveness of HBCU programs on the national stage. The Golden Bears now move on to the next round of the playoffs, continuing their historic run.

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“Da’Shun Mitchell had a hell of a game,” Sharpe began. “Twelve catches, 227 yards, and two touchdowns. Why is that important? The 227 yards in a single game set the record by a Savannah State receiver — breaking the record held Shannon Sharpe — of seven catches, 221 yards, and two touchdowns.”

Ochocinco playfully jabbed, “You gotta go get it back.”

Sharpe laughed before turning reflective.

“No, Ocho, I’m glad. Hopefully, I inspired him. When I was there, I didn’t have anybody to look up to. There weren’t many numbers to chase. I just wanted to set the bar. And after 35 years, he broke it. Salute the young bull.”

Sharpe also highlighted Mitchell’s recognition as a first-team All-Conference player, further praising his contributions. “When a Savannah State Tiger does something great—especially as a receiver—I’m proud. That’s what we do.”

Mitchell’s record-breaking performance was a bright spot in Savannah State’s rollercoaster season. Paired with quarterback Jhaydon Sullivan’s school-record 400 passing yards, the Tigers’ offense showed flashes of brilliance, amassing a season-high 509 total yards. Mitchell’s performance included a 77-yard touchdown grab, showcasing the explosive connection between him and Sullivan. The HBCU squad finished 5-5 this season.

“Congratulations, on everything you’ve accomplished. Savannah State — that’s what we do,” Sharpe concluded, his admiration clear. 

The exchange between Sharpe and Ochocinco underscored Sharpe’s enduring connection to his HBCU, celebrating the next generation while honoring the legacy he helped build.

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

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

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

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Miles College, the newly crowned SIAC champions, received the no. 4 slot in the NCAA Super Region II and will host Carson Newman. 

Virginia Union, the newly crowned CIAA champions, will travel to Wingate University in North Carolina. 

Miles College went 9-2 en rout to the SIAC Championship, winning nine consecutive games after an 0-2 start. It will be looking for its NCAA Playoff first win in school history on Saturday. 

VUU went 8-3 overall this season — 8-2 against Division II competition. The game against Wingate is a rematch of the 2022 playoff game that was hosted in Richmond. Virginia Union has made the NCAA Division II playoffs for the third consecutive season. 

HBCU teams on the outside-looking-in at the playoffs include Johnson C. Smith and Winston-Salem State.

Johnson C. Smith went 8-2 during the 2024 season and was thought to have a solid shot at a bid into the playoffs. That win total is the best in school history as the team got off to an 8-0 start with a win over Winston-Salem State on Oct. 26. JCSU appeared to have the inside track on a CIAA championship game bid, but it lost its final two games to Fayetteville State and Livingstone College to find itself watching two schools — Virginia Union and Virginia State — that it had beaten. Those three wins against VUU, VSU and WSSU were not enough to overcome their losses, however.

WSSU finished the season 7-3 overall, 7-2 against Division II competition. It was ranked in the regional rankings throughout the month of November, but did not make the field. 

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The Golden Bears finished a perfect romp through the conference schedule with a 53-25 win over Clark Atlanta in the 2024 SIAC Championship Game on Saturday at Sloan-Alumni Stadium. In the process, Miles College (9-2) won its fifth SIAC title during the Division II era (since 1987) in a game that the team never trailed. It was the ninth consecutive win for the Golden Bears, which ties the school record for wins in a single season and sets the school mark for consecutive victories in a single campaign.

The win also – most assuredly – clinches a trip to the NCAA Division II Football Championship tournament, with the bracket set for release on Sunday at 5 p.m. The Golden Bears may – for the first time – get a chance to host a playoff game in its third appearance in the national tournament.

It did not take Miles long to grab control of the contest. On Clark Atlanta’s first possession, Keith Green blasted quarterback David Wright for his league-leading third forced fumble. The ball popped into the air and linebacker William Hardy grabbed it and raced 48 yards for a touchdown which gave Miles a 7-0 lead midway through the first quarter. After forcing a three-and-out, Miles went right down the field – all of it on the ground, save one penalty – and finished a 60-yard drive with a 5-yard touchdown run by Jonero Scott, his fourth on the season, for a 14-0 advantage with just more than a minute left in the opening period.

Miles College continued to pile on before closing the first quarter, with more help from the Panthers. After forcing another three-and-out, a high snap on the punt sent the ball hurtling into the end zone. To keep from Miles pouncing on the loose pigskin for another touchdown, CAU punter Leonardo Cabrera kicked the ball out of the back of the end zone for a safety and the Golden Bears would go into the second quarter with a 16-0 lead.

After getting the ball on the free kick, Miles went right back on the offensive. Aided by a big 45-yard pass from Kamren Ivory to Franck Pierre, the Golden Bears increased their lead to 23-0 when Javonta Leatherwood powered in from three yards out less than three minutes into the second quarter.

Clark Atlanta was able to get some momentum and fought its way back into the contest with touchdowns on consecutive drives. But down nine with the ball, CAU was stymied by the Miles defense on its two ensuing drives. First, JaMichael Rogers forced the issue on an incomplete pass on fourth down inside the Miles 30 to thwart the first drive. Then, Lashon Young picked off Wright in the end zone – his NCAA-leading eighth on the season. His big return gave Miles some breathing room and the offense took advantage.

A short completion to Jaih Andrews was followed by two big ones to Keidarris Griffin (44 and 14 yards). But the biggest pass was the shortest, a 2-yard toss to Leatherwood. His first receiving grab of the season sent Miles into the break with a 29-14 lead in the SIAC championship game.

The second half saw Miles College continue to shred CAU on both sides of the ball. Jeremiah Hudson-Davis has interceptions on the Panthers’ first two drives of the half. After the first pick, Scott found his way into the end zone for the second time – a 6-yard jaunt – before Roderick Smith booted one in from 30 yards to increase the lead to 39-14.

The Golden Bears’ defense continued to obliterate the Panthers. Josh Ruff got his first career interception on the ensuing drive, then Miles got a fourth-and-1 stop at the Miles 2-yard line. CAU would get a safety on a blocked punt and a touchdown to open the fourth quarter to draw to within 39-23. But a big Jamari Riley 31-yard run set Leatherwood up for a 4-yard scoring run – his 11the rushing touchdown and 12th overall on the season – to give Miles more cushion.

On the ensuing kickoff, John Robinson forced a fumble that Tifton Dobbs recovered and returned to the CAU 12. Two plays later, Derrick Davis rumbled in from nine yards out for a 53-23 lead with 6:51 left. The celebrations really began to ramp up on the Miles sidelines.

But the defense continued it’s assault on the Panthers, who had replaced Wright – who was forced from the game on multiple occasions after taking brutal, legal hits from the Miles pass rush – with Heath Williams, Jr. Two interceptions by Cam Williams gave him three on the season and gave Miles six for the game and eight total turnovers forced. As the clock rolled to zero, the celebration began in full force as the Golden Bears shared hugs and handshakes before taking possession of the SIAC championship trophy.

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In their previous meeting, Miles ran away with a 49-28 victory, relying on their bruising rushing attack and opportunistic defense. However, Clark Atlanta has grown since that game and enters the championship brimming with confidence, particularly after a strong close to the season, including a pivotal win over Tuskegee.

Keys to Victory

Clark Atlanta:

1. Unleash the Air Attack: Quarterback David Wright III is the catalyst for Clark Atlanta’s offense, leading one of the top passing attacks among HBCUs at 293.6 yards per game. Connecting with playmakers like Armone Harris and Jamal Jones will be critical against a Miles secondary that has tallied 17 interceptions this season.
2. Contain the Rushing Game: Miles thrives on the ground, averaging 173.4 rushing yards per game behind Javonta Leatherwood and Jonero Scott. Clark Atlanta’s defense must rise to the occasion, particularly in the trenches, to prevent another runaway game.
3. Play With Urgency: Clark Atlanta has been dynamic late in games, but starting fast is essential. Establishing rhythm early and avoiding turnovers will be crucial in silencing the Miles home crowd.

Miles College:

1. Control the Tempo With the Run Game: Miles, one of the most physical HBCU programs, will look to dictate the pace by leaning on their rushing attack. Leatherwood’s explosiveness and Scott’s consistency make them a nightmare to defend.
2. Disrupt the Passing Game: Clark Atlanta’s aerial prowess is their biggest weapon, but Miles’ defensive front has racked up 36 sacks this season. Applying pressure on Wright III will force mistakes and limit big plays.
3. Seize the Moment: This game offers Miles the chance to cement themselves as one of the premier HBCU programs in the SIAC. Playing clean, mistake-free football will be key to completing their championship quest.

The Stakes

This game is more than a title bout—it’s a celebration of HBCU football excellence. Miles is chasing their second SIAC title in three years, while Clark Atlanta looks to add to create a legacy and reassert their presence in the HBCU football landscape. With both teams representing the pride of their institutions and the broader HBCU community, expect a passionate, hard-fought game that will come down to execution and heart.

Prediction: Miles College’s physicality and balanced attack make them the favorites, but if Clark Atlanta can play their best game of the season, this could become an instant HBCU classic.

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La’Tavion Johnson, an 18-year-old, was killed in the mass shooting. Johnson was not a student at Tuskegee University. 

“An annual homecoming is something we have been doing for 100 years. It is a tradition at many schools and especially so at historically Black colleges and universities,” he said. “We have no plans to change that tradition.”

Four people went to the hospital with non-shooting-related injuries, and 12 others were hit in the mass shooting.  

“We did not nor could we have planned for security at an event that was not approved in advance or officially sanctioned by the university,” Brown said. “Nonetheless, it happened on our campus, and we take full responsibility for allowing a thorough investigation and implementing corrective actions.”

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