The NCAA says former Delta Devils guards Donovan Sanders and Alvin Stredic provided inside information to bettors and were offered money to help influence games during the 2024–25 season — a year in which Mississippi Valley finished 3–28 overall and 1–17 in SWAC play.

Both players were major pieces of that roster:

• Stredic started 27 of 28 games, averaging 30.9 minutes, 9.4 points and 5.2 rebounds, while shooting 41.0% from the field (93-of-227) and going 77-of-124 at the line.
• Sanders started 27 of 29 games, logging a team-high 32.7 minutes per game with 9.0 points, 3.0 rebounds and team-leading totals in both assists (79) and steals (42).

Their involvement means the NCAA’s findings aren’t about fringe players — they’re about two of Valley’s most trusted contributors.

NCAA: Phone call and flagged line before 45-point loss at Tulsa

The report details an incident before Valley’s Dec. 21, 2024 road game at Tulsa, a matchup the Delta Devils lost 93–48.

An unidentified Mississippi Valley player told investigators he overheard Sanders on the phone talking about “throwing the game.” Sanders then allegedly asked that teammate to join the call so a bettor could ask whether other players might be willing to participate. Sanders later instructed the player to delete their text messages, according to the NCAA.

Sportsbooks flagged the contest after a surge of large bets came in on Tulsa to cover the 26-point spread. Tulsa ended up winning by 45, and the unusual action was later turned over to investigators through an open-records request.

Offer to “play poorly” vs. Alabama A&M

The NCAA says Sanders later provided information to bettors ahead of Valley’s Jan. 6, 2025 trip to Alabama A&M, a game the Delta Devils lost 79–67.

In interviews with investigators, Sanders said he and Stredic were offered money to play poorly in the first half by another bettor. The same report noted that the betting handle on Mississippi Valley State–Alabama A&M was 3.6 times higher than a typical SWAC game.

Across the season, Mississippi Valley ran through a brutal schedule: road games at Iowa State, Missouri, Texas, BYU, Utah, Liberty, North Texas, LSU and more. The Delta Devils took heavy losses in most of those games and closed the year on a nine-game losing streak.

Those lopsided scores made the on-court product look like a typical rebuilding season. The betting patterns around Tulsa and Alabama A&M are what brought in regulators and eventually the NCAA.

Attempts to reach Sanders and Stredic were unsuccessful.

Mississippi Valley State issues statement

The University released a public statement after the NCAA decision, noting that the two players involved are no longer enrolled and stressing the school’s cooperation throughout the investigation.

“Mississippi Valley State University acknowledges the recent NCAA Committee on Infractions report, which concluded an enforcement investigation into sports betting violations involving two former men’s basketball student-athletes who are no longer enrolled at the university,” the statement read.

The university said it “fully cooperated with the NCAA’s investigation” and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity in its athletic programs. MVSU added that it will work with the NCAA to implement education and preventative measures so all current student-athletes understand and follow sports-wagering rules.

Wider case spans multiple schools

Sanders and Stredic are among six former Division I players the NCAA permanently deemed ineligible in this case.

The investigation also involved three former players at New Orleans — Hunter, Short and Vincent — whom the NCAA says were linked to a betting scheme targeting multiple Privateers games, including a Dec. 28, 2024 matchup with McNeese State. Investigators cited text messages and witness accounts describing cash payments and communication with a known bettor around several Southland Conference contests.

In another branch of the case, former Arizona State guard B.J. Freeman was found to have given a former teammate and his then-girlfriend information so they could place daily-fantasy bets on his individual statistics.

All six players named in the report have had their eligibility permanently revoked, and none is currently enrolled at his former school, according to the NCAA.

The post Two former HBCU players banned after betting probe appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

On Sept. 30, social media began circulating screenshots of a concerning message allegedly tied to the event. While its authenticity could not be confirmed at first, the same message appeared multiple times. By Oct. 1, the notice was found posted on the official website, GeorgiaFootballClassic.com.

The Statement

“This event is no longer taking place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. You don’t need to do a thing. We’ll issue a refund to the original method of payment used at time of purchase, as soon as funds are received from the Event Organizer. It should appear on your account within 14–21 days. Please note: If the tickets were transferred to you. The refund will go to the fan who originally purchased the tickets from Ticketmaster.”

That third line — noting that funds had already been transferred to the organizers — has fueled growing unease among fans. Given the organizers’ troubled track record over the summer, many ticket holders have expressed doubts about when, or if, their money will be returned. Social media has since been flooded with frustration, regret, and anger over the lack of transparency and communication.

How We Got Here

The Georgia Football Classic was originally billed as an HBCU showcase matchup between the Florida A&M Rattlers and the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils, with both marching bands set to perform inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium. But on Sept. 30, organizers abruptly announced the game’s removal from the venue and scrambled to identify possible alternatives. Morehouse College, Kennesaw State, and Clark Atlanta University, all located in Atlanta, were floated as potential hosts.

Ultimately, FAMU and MVSU officials ended the speculation with a joint announcement: the game would not be salvaged in Atlanta. Instead, it would return to its original location in Itta Bena, Mississippi — rescheduled for Nov. 29, just four days before the original Atlanta date.

The collapse left fans reeling, with many already locked into hotel deposits, Airbnbs, flights, and rental car reservations. FAMU National Alumni Association President Artisha Polk issued a letter to alumni assuring them that the Omni Hotel would cancel all reservations without penalty in light of the cancellation. Unfortunately, many others were not as fortunate, absorbing losses tied to their travel plans.

What was once pitched as a premier HBCU football showcase has instead become a case study in disorganization and disappointment, leaving thousands of loyal fans demanding answers — and their refunds.

The post Concerns Mount Over Refunds from Canceled HBCU Classic appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Early signs of trouble

The Georgia Football Classic aimed to revive the energy of the Atlanta Football Classic (AFC), a major HBCU Classic from 1989 to 2014. The 100 Black Men of Atlanta staged the AFC at the old Georgia Dome, drawing huge crowds and making it a staple of the HBCU football calendar. FAMU’s strong Atlanta fan base, paired with opponents like Southern University and Tennessee State, turned the game into a fall spectacle.

The 2003 FAMU–TSU matchup drew 70,185 fans. In 2002 and 2004, the event drew 67,000 fans annually, with attendance figures rivaling some bowl games.

In August, John Grant, ESPN Director of Special Events and former AFC organizer, explained to HBCU Gameday that the landscape has changed. Grant, who now leads the MEAC–SWAC Challenge and Celebration Bowl, called reviving a large-scale Atlanta HBCU classic “monumental, if not impossible.” He pointed to marketing and logistical challenges that didn’t exist during the AFC’s peak.

Announcement and silence

Momentum built when FAMU Athletic Director Angela Suggs announced during the alumni association meeting that the 2025 game would move from Rice–Totten Stadium in Itta Bena to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. MVSU Athletics followed with a statement:

“Mississippi Valley State University Athletics is proud to announce that our 2025 football clash with FAMU, originally scheduled to be played at Rice–Totten Stadium in Itta Bena, will now take place at Atlanta’s iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, October 4, 2025.”

After that announcement, communication stalled. With less than 60 days before kickoff, there were no advertisements, no tickets on sale through Ticketmaster, FAMU, or MVSU, and no public event details.

When HBCU Gameday pressed for answers, one promoter demanded a retraction. The reporting team held its ground, pointing out that the event was “in limbo” without ticket availability. We also pledged to follow up when official details surfaced.

Déjà vu in Tampa

Meanwhile, a similar situation unfolded in Tampa. The proposed Tampa Football Classic, featuring Bethune–Cookman and Southern, was slated for October 20. B-CU Athletic Director Reggie Theus eventually withdrew the program after organizers missed key deadlines. He stressed that he wouldn’t compromise the fan or student-athlete experience without proper infrastructure.

New plan: back to MVSU

The game now has a new plan. It will return to Mississippi Valley State’s home field, with kickoff scheduled for Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. The later date provides both programs with a clear path forward after weeks of uncertainty.

FAMU issues joint statement

FAMU and MVSU released a joint statement to clarify the new arrangement:

“The SWAC contest on October 4, 2025, a MVSU home game, will not be played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. As Mississippi Valley State is the designated home team, the decision has been made to cancel the game in Atlanta and reschedule to Rice–Totten Stadium in Itta Bena, Mississippi, on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 2 p.m.

We regret the impact that this unexpected change will have on our fans, and we will make every effort to provide a quality game-day experience during the rescheduled date of competition. … MVSU and FAMU remain committed to excellence on and off the field … Information regarding tickets will be forthcoming on each school’s respective athletics websites.”

The statement frames the move as a redirection, not a cancellation. It reaffirms both universities’ commitment to delivering a legitimate HBCU matchup and promises further ticket information soon.

The Big Picture

This pivot highlights a larger reality: grand venue ambitions create excitement, but sustainability matters more. The Georgia Classic’s collapse at Mercedes-Benz Stadium is a cautionary tale. The marketing resources and logistical capacity needed to support an HBCU classic of that scale are harder to pull off today than they were in the early 2000s.

Still, the game lives on—back on familiar ground and firmer footing. The matchup will now be played on November 29 at 2 p.m. in Itta Bena, Mississippi, giving fans a new date to circle on their calendars.

The post Failed HBCU Classic Matchup in Atlanta gets new date and venue appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Early Announcements Spark Excitement

FAMU athletic director Angela Suggs announced earlier this year that Mississippi Valley State planned to move its home game to the home of the Atlanta Falcons. In August, Mississippi Valley State reinforced that message on its athletics website. The school stated that the 2025 clash with FAMU would move from Rice–Totten Stadium in Itta Bena to Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The release described the event as part of the Georgia Football Classic and promised fans a showcase of HBCU tradition.

HBCU Gameday questions venue

Since the announcement, doubts have grown. HBCU Gameday’s Vaughn R. Wilson called the MVSU ticket office and was told that details were still “forthcoming” less than two months before kickoff. FAMU’s athletics staff redirected fans back to Mississippi Valley State, emphasizing that the Delta Devils held responsibility for the game as a home SWAC contest.

Promoters followed up with a press release to keep momentum alive. Dan Anderson, founder of the Georgia Football Classic, promised a unique atmosphere. He also highlighted the launch of Band VERZUZ Band, a new marching band competition tied to the event.

Where Things Stand Now

The October 4 matchup between Mississippi Valley State and FAMU is still listed, but the venue remains unsettled. The official ticket website continues to display pre-sale options, adding to the uncertainty. HBCU Gameday has contacted Mississippi Valley State University for further clarity and is waiting for a response. Sources indicate the game could still be played in Atlanta, but it will NOT happen at the NFL stadium.

If Mercedes-Benz Stadium does not host the game, Mississippi Valley State may return the contest to Itta Bena. Either way, the Delta Devils and FAMU Rattlers are scheduled to meet in a key SWAC showdown. Until final confirmation arrives, however, one of the fall’s most anticipated HBCU football matchups remains in limbo.

Florida A&M enters the game with a 1-3 record, while Mississippi Valley State continues its search for its first win.

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Allegations Against Former Players

According to the NCAA enforcement staff, the cases involve a range of serious allegations. Some athletes are accused of betting on their own teams or against them. Others allegedly shared inside information with outside parties, manipulated game outcomes, or refused to cooperate with investigators.

“The NCAA enforcement staff is in the process of alleging violations of sports betting rules and/or related failure-to-cooperate violations for 13 former men’s basketball student-athletes who competed at six schools at the time the conduct in question occurred,” the organization said in its release.

Schools Not Facing Penalties

The NCAA has stressed that the institutions themselves are not under suspicion. “As with the previously resolved cases, the schools and respective school staffs in the ongoing cases are not alleged to have been involved in the violations by student-athletes, and the enforcement staff is not seeking penalties for the schools themselves for the student-athletes’ conduct.”

The schools connected to the current investigations are Eastern Michigan, Temple, Arizona State, New Orleans, North Carolina A&T, and Mississippi Valley State.

NCAA Explains Why Information Went Public

The association decided to release the details now because of what it described as “extensive public reporting regarding these cases.” None of the 13 athletes are currently enrolled at their former schools. Their names will not be released until the infractions process concludes.

Baker on Protecting Game Integrity

NCAA President Charlie Baker issued a clear statement on the organization’s position. “The NCAA monitors over 22,000 contests every year and will continue to aggressively pursue competition integrity risks such as these,” Baker said. “I am grateful for the NCAA enforcement team’s relentless work and for the schools’ cooperation in these matters.”

The NCAA said it became aware of the gambling activity through its integrity monitoring system. Investigators found evidence that included text messages and direct messages on social media.

Education and Prevention Efforts

The NCAA says its approach is “layered.” It monitors contests, pushes for limits on high-risk bets, works to reduce student-athlete abuse from angry bettors, and aims to bring more transparency to investigations.

The NCAA also continues to focus on education. Since 2022, its gambling harm program with EPIC Global Solutions has reached more than 100,000 student-athletes, coaches, and administrators. In 2024, the “Draw the Line” campaign was launched to help schools address sports betting risks locally.

Rules and Penalties Remain Firm

NCAA rules prohibit athletes, as well as school or conference staff, from betting on any sport that has an NCAA championship. The rules were adjusted in 2023 to focus on harm reduction, but the NCAA remains strict on one point. Any athlete who bets on their own team permanently loses eligibility.

The Division I Administrative Committee may review changes related to betting on professional sports later this year. Still, the NCAA said those possible changes “are not expected to impact rules or penalties for betting on collegiate sports.”

Why HBCUs Are in the Spotlight

The inclusion of North Carolina A&T and Mississippi Valley State underscores how deeply the rise of legalized sports betting has penetrated college sports. HBCU programs are already battling for resources and exposure, and they will now face the challenge of keeping their athletes away from growing gambling temptations.

While neither HBCU athletic staff has been implicated in wrongdoing, the potential damage to reputation and recruiting is real. For HBCU institutions, where basketball often serves as both a cultural touchstone and a key revenue generator, the integrity of the game is central to maintaining trust with alumni, fans, and prospective players.

NCAA’s Broader Gambling Strategy

Even with those efforts, penalties remain severe. Any student-athlete who bets on their own team faces permanent loss of eligibility. A hard line, the NCAA says, is necessary to protect the integrity of competition.

The Division I Board of Directors is reviewing potential changes to rules surrounding professional sports betting, but no relief is expected for those who wager on college games.

The post HBCU Athletes Implicated in NCAA Gambling Violations appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

A press release obtained by HBCU Gameday lists the game’s sponsors as Georgia Football Classic LLC, 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, and Discover DeKalb. The partnership has also secured the rights to the home game initially slated for Ita Bena, MS.

The release gives a synopsis of the event and its ancillary activities.  

HBCU football in Atlanta

“A historic college football rivalry between the Mississippi Valley State University Delta Devils Football Team and the Florida A&M University Rattlers Football Team,” the release stated. “The Georgia Football Classic is a neutral-site showdown between HBCU rivals and will kick off at 4:00 pm on Saturday, October 4. “

Tickets for the 2025 Georgia Football Classic will be available on September 2 at georgiafootballclassic.com and ticketmaster.com. Every ticket purchased includes access to pre- and post-game events. Including entrance into the Mercedes-Benz Stadium for the football game, the halftime show, and VIP day parties. Fans can register online for a chance to win free tickets to the football game and receive

 “The enthusiasm and energy that the Georgia Football Classic will create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, celebrated throughout the community,” said Dan Anderson, founder of the Georgia Football Classic. “We are equally thrilled to introduce our new marching band sport special event property in Band VERZUZ Band. Band VERZUZ Band is the sweet musical science in the precision of the sport of marching band.”

 “The Georgia Football Classic will be one of metro Atlanta’s most highly anticipated events. Providing opportunities for everyone to enjoy the traditions and excitement surrounding the football game,” said Troy Vincent, President of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County. “This event brings our communities together to celebrate and share in the culture, sportsmanship, and richness of metro Atlanta and its rich HBCU culture.”

Georgia Football Classic Schedule of Activities:

Saturday, October 4 

Pre-Game National Anthem Performance 

Georgia Football Classic Gospel Choir — 3:45 pm 

2025 Georgia Football Classic Football Game 

Mercedes-Benz Stadium Kick Off – 4:00 pm – Mississippi Valley State University Delta Devils vs FAMU Rattlers 

Halftime Show 

The Mississippi Valley State University Mean Green Marching Machine vs the FAMU Marching 100 

Post Game World Premier of Band VERZUZ Band (5th Quarter) 

The Mississippi Valley State University Mean Green Marching Machine vs The FAMU 100 (up close and personal)

The post Details Emerge for HBCU Classic at Mercedes-Benz Stadium appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The team teased her arrival back in April on the team’s official Instagram account, which posted a video of the 5-foot-7 sophomore kicker from Boxmeer, Netherlands, speaking with head coach Terrell Buckley and defensive pass game coordinator Mario Edwards Sr. before attempting — and making — a field goal in front of her new teammates. The caption read: “When we said New Era we meant it! Join us in welcoming our newest kicker to the team.”

From the Netherlands to the Delta

Schiks arrived at MVSU in 2024 as a women’s soccer team defender, playing in 10 matches with three starts. She also competed on the women’s tennis team last spring. Though she won’t return to the Devilettes’ soccer roster in 2025, she’ll now take her shot — literally — in football.

The Delta Devils already have three other kickers on the 2025 roster. Returners Nicholas Stephens, Marko Jovisic, and Indiana State transfer Marko Dubak make up a crowded specialist room. Last season, Jovisic converted 20 extra points, went 4-for-9 on field goals (including two blocked kicks), and drilled a long of 51 yards while handling kickoff duties. Stephens was listed as a punter but didn’t see live attempts, and Dubak, who previously played at College of DuPage and Florida A&M, redshirted the 2024 season.

That depth means Schiks will have to fight for her spot on the field — and by all accounts, she’s ready for it.

Following a SWAC Rival’s Lead

Schiks’s arrival comes just one year after Jackson State University’s Leilani Armenta made history as the school’s first female football player. In 2023, Armenta became the first woman to score points in an HBCU football game, converting three extra points in a 40–14 win over Arkansas–Pine Bluff. She added another point in 2024 before signing with the Mississippi Panthers of the Women’s National Football Conference in 2025.

Their stories follow a long, though rare, history of women appearing in college football — from Liz Heaston at Willamette in 1997 to Sarah Fuller’s Power Five debut for Vanderbilt in 2020.

A Season of Opportunity

The Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils open their season at home against Southern on August 30, giving Schiks a shot to become the next woman to make history on the gridiron. For her, it’s simple: perform, compete, and help the team win.

Whether lining up for a clutch kick or grinding through practice, Nina Schiks represents more than a roster addition — she’s part of a growing movement in HBCU sports proving that barriers are made to be broken.

The post HBCU Football Program Makes History with First Female Player appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

“Mississippi Valley State University Athletics is proud to announce that our 2025 football clash with FAMU, originally scheduled to be played at Rice–Totten Stadium in Itta Bena, will now take place at Atlanta’s iconic Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Saturday, October 4, 2025.”

The news immediately created a buzz in the HBCU football community. With new athletic director Alecia Shields-Gadson taking the reins and head coach Terrell Buckley leading the Delta Devils, excitement around MVSU was at its highest in decades. That momentum was fueled by MVSU’s stunning November 16 victory over FAMU. A win that snapped the Rattlers’ 23-game home winning streak, the longest in FCS football at the time. It was the first victory over FAMU in school history.

Confusion Over Tickets and Event Details

However, when fans began calling the MVSU ticket office, they were met with uncertainty. A representative said details about the event were still “forthcoming.” Further questions revealed that the department had no knowledge of the specifics for the proposed Atlanta game.

A similar story came from Florida A&M’s athletics office. “The game is Mississippi Valley’s home SWAC contest. All information about the game must come from their office,” a staff member explained. This meant FAMU’s ticket office — which often sells away-game tickets for the convenience of Rattler fans — had no additional information either.

Venue Schedule Raises Doubts

Seeking confirmation from the venue, we contacted Mercedes-Benz Stadium directly. Their published events schedule for late 2025 through 2026 did not list the MVSU vs. FAMU game. The absence of the matchup from one of the nation’s premier football venues raises doubts about whether the event was truly confirmed, even though the Celebration Bowl isn’t listed either.

HBCU Culture Meets Event Promotion

Despite the uncertainty, Atlanta’s status as a hub for HBCU culture has already inspired local promoters to plan. Several well-known event organizers began advertising weekend festivities in anticipation of FAMU fans traveling to the city.

But with no official ticket information, venue confirmation, or updates from either school, the excitement for an Atlanta showdown is cooling. The most likely scenario is a return to the original location. Itta Bena, Mississippi, for the highly anticipated SWAC matchup between the Rattlers and the Delta Devils.

The post HBCU Revenge Match at Mercedes Benz Stadium In Limbo appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The hire is more than symbolic; it signals a renewed, strategic push for excellence in MVSU’s athletic department.

Shields-Gadson brings over 25 years of experience and a reputation for bold, student-focused leadership to the Delta Devils. She officially starts on July 15.

“This is about blazing a new path,” Shields-Gadson said in a statement. “My vision for MVSU Athletics is one of growth, excellence, and unwavering commitment to our most prized possessions—our student-athletes.”

A Proven Playmaker in HBCU Athletics

If you follow HBCU athletics, you’ve seen her impact. Shields-Gadson most recently served as Deputy Athletic Director at Alcorn State, where she oversaw strategic planning and departmental execution. But it was at Delaware State University that she made national waves.

As Director of Athletics at DSU, she helped launch the country’s first Division I women’s varsity wrestling program—a historic move that put the school on the map. DSU’s 19 varsity programs saw a resurgence during her tenure, capturing conference championships and earning national postseason bids. She also facilitated a $1 million private donation—the largest of its kind for Hornets athletics.

“She’s transformational,” said Mississippi Valley State University President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr. “Dr. Shields-Gadson has a proven track record in athletics administration that will be instrumental as we elevate MVSU Athletics and the overall student-athlete experience.”

Not Just a Title—A Legacy in the Making

Dr. Alecia Shields-Gadson has held leadership positions across multiple HBCUs, including Coppin State and Alcorn State, where she started her career as head track and field coach. She’s a former NCAA Leadership Development Fellow and has served on prominent national committees, including the NCAA Division I Council and Competition Oversight Committee.

Her career has been defined by advocacy, equity, and opportunity—not just for athletes, but for women in sports leadership.

At MVSU, she steps into a program ripe for growth. The Delta Devils have passionate fans, a strong alumni network, and a new leader who knows how to build from the ground up.

Her focus? Competitive success, financial sustainability, and academic excellence for student-athletes. That includes enhancing facilities, improving Title IX compliance, and expanding the program’s visibility on and off the field.

Academic Roots, Athletic Vision

A Southern University alum with a journalism degree, Shields-Gadson earned a master’s from Alcorn State and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Delaware State. Her academic credentials complement her athletic prowess, creating a leadership style that’s as analytical as it is inspiring.

Mississippi Valley State University has also acknowledged the role of Collegiate Consulting in the national search process, which led to the landmark hire.

Now, with a seasoned architect at the helm, MVSU looks to carve out a new chapter in HBCU athletics—one led by a woman determined to leave her own legacy.

The post HBCU Hires Second Woman in Its History as Director of Athletics appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Dancy’s story goes beyond football. It’s about culture, community, and deep Mississippi pride. Born and raised in the Magnolia State, Dancy’s return to Mississippi State blends his coaching expertise with hometown loyalty.

HBCU Roots Run Deep

Before joining the Bulldogs, Vincent Dancy was the head coach at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU), a historic HBCU. There, he showed strong dedication to player growth and leadership. He worked hard to bring a competitive spirit to a program with a rich tradition but fewer resources.

That HBCU experience is key. At MVSU, Dancy learned how to recruit raw talent, develop players, and build a strong team culture. These skills fit perfectly with the challenges of SEC football. He knows how to get the best out of players even in tough situations.

Back Home in the SEC

Dancy’s hiring is also about familiarity and passion. Mississippi State’s defense now has someone who knows Mississippi inside and out — the football, the people, and the culture. As said in the recent ALL-ACCESS: MISSISSIPPI STATE SPRING FOOTBALL video on YouTube, “This is a guy that, again, is — man, he’s from here. He’s back home.”

His deep knowledge of Mississippi recruiting gives him a big advantage. The state is full of football talent, and Dancy’s connections and passion will help bring top players to the Bulldogs.

Power 5 Coaching Experience

Before coming back home, Dancy coached outside linebackers at the University of Colorado, a Power 4 program in the Pac-12. This gave him valuable experience at a high level of college football.

At Mississippi State, he now coaches defensive ends and JACK linebackers. These are key positions in the Bulldogs’ defense. They require speed, strength, and smarts — qualities Dancy knows how to develop.

Recruiting and Player Development: Building for the Future

Rebuilding a program takes two things: finding talent and developing that talent every day. Dancy is known across Mississippi as a strong recruiter. He knows the local football scene and how to find players others might miss.

He also focuses on helping players grow both on and off the field. This focus is essential as Mississippi State aims to climb the SEC ranks and compete with the best.

A Fan Turned Coach

What makes Dancy special is his genuine love for the game and his community. As a kid, he was a fan. He spent many Saturdays in the stands watching Mississippi State games, soaking in the energy and tradition.

Now he’s back — but on the sidelines. In the ALL-ACCESS video, someone said, “There’s nobody more excited than him to be able to be inside this building every single day.” That passion is contagious and exactly what the Bulldogs need.

Looking Ahead

Vincent Dancy’s return to Mississippi State is more than a coaching hire. It’s an HBCU head coach coming full circle — bringing the heart, lessons, and the culture of historically Black colleges and universities into SEC football.

As Mississippi State builds its future, Dancy’s mix of HBCU grit, Power 5 experience, and deep Mississippi roots could be the difference-maker.

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The Mississippi HBCU STEM Initiative, launched by Nissan in 2014, aims to prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It funds robotics labs, summer STEM camps, and innovation projects. Additionally, the initiative creates internship pipelines for industries such as automotive and technology.

For instance, Alcorn State University received $45,000 this year. The funds will upgrade its robotics labs and expand outreach to younger students. Nissan’s Victor Taylor, an Alcorn graduate and VP at the Canton plant, emphasized the value of the program:

“We are helping prepare students for future careers in industries like automotive,” Taylor said.

Supporting Every Mississippi HBCU

All seven of Mississippi’s HBCUs benefit from this year’s donation. These include:

• Alcorn State University
• Coahoma Community College
• Hinds Community College – Utica Campus
• Jackson State University
• Mississippi Valley State University
• Rust College
• Tougaloo College

Each school will use the funds to meet its unique needs. For example, Coahoma hosts summer STEM camps. Jackson State is enhancing its robotics and design labs. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State is expanding its internship opportunities.

Building Pathways from College to Career

Nissan’s commitment goes beyond financial support. The company is building long-term pathways that connect students to meaningful careers. According to Nissan USA, these programs align with Nissan’s goals for diversity and innovation.

Nationally, HBCUs play a vital role in producing Black graduates in STEM fields. As the NSF reports, they play a key role in diversifying the workforce. Therefore, initiatives like this one are more important than ever.

Why It Matters for HBCUs

Nissan’s support strengthens labs and classrooms. It also empowers students through early exposure, hands-on training, and mentorship. Ultimately, it helps build a stronger future for both HBCU students and the industries that will one day employ them.

Strategic partnerships, such as Nissan’s, help elevate their impact. These donations don’t just enhance campus facilities—they empower students with tools, mentorship, and career access that extend far beyond graduation.

The post Mississippi HBCUs Receive Major STEM Investment appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The former Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) standout spent the 2024–25 season battling a torn labrum in her hip. Despite the pain, she led her team through adversity and capped the year with a postseason tournament title. Now, she’s taking her talents to Mississippi Valley State—one of the toughest HBCU programs in Division I.

“I didn’t think I was gonna get picked up by any D1 schools,” Smith admits. “I was playing injured the whole season. It wasn’t even my best.”

Yet, talent always finds a way. Through grit, discipline, and unshakable determination, she earned her next shot.

Fighting Through the Pain

Smith didn’t just lace up while injured—she battled through one of the most painful conditions in basketball: a torn hip labrum.

“I had no labrum in my right hip. It was detached,” she explains. “I just got steroid shots to manage the pain.”

The injury disrupted her rhythm and limited her explosiveness. Even so, Smith refused to let her team down. With a shallow frontcourt, she embraced the role of the lone post presence and anchored the paint night after night.

“I was the only true big. So I had no choice but to push through.”

That mindset didn’t just keep her on the floor—it fueled a run few expected.

Surviving a Season of Chaos

Even with a capable roster, Johnson C. Smith’s season swung wildly. Practices lacked structure, and players struggled with fatigue.

“We’d practice for hours, just running pickup. No warmups, no individual workouts,” Smith recalls. “It wasn’t like the other schools I’d been to.”

Despite the disarray, the team’s chemistry found room to grow. Connections formed naturally, even as systems faltered.

Midseason, everything shifted. Assistant coach Taisha Murphy—known as Coach Tay—took the reins. Her approach transformed the team.

“She was hands-on. We watched more film, fixed our transition defense. It made a difference,” says Smith.

Under Murphy’s leadership, Johnson C. Smith rallied from the bottom of the CIAA to clinch the inaugural BCIC tournament title, despite entering as the final team selected.

“We weren’t even in the tournament at first. We got called last. But we proved we belonged.”

Betting on Valley, Betting on Herself

Desiree Smith’s transfer announcement caught some off guard. Mississippi Valley State’s women’s program is chronically underfunded and under the radar. Still, that’s precisely what drew her in.

“I’m a dog,” she says. “Valley needs dogs. I felt like I fit.”

Her decision wasn’t about luxury—it was about legacy. For Smith, Valley offers more than a scholarship; it provides a challenge worth taking.

“If they need someone to go out and compete, I’m that player.”

Eyes on the Pros, Mind on the Mission

After Valley, Smith has big plans. She hopes to continue her basketball career overseas, using her HBCU platform as a springboard.

If that doesn’t materialize, she’s already carving a future in performance therapy—with the U.S. Navy as a potential next step.

“I’m majoring in physical therapy,” she explains. “If I go into the Navy, I’ll go in as an officer. The plan is to work with athletes long-term.”

Her passion for injury prevention stems from her own lived experience. Through nerve pain, hip issues, and off-season grind sessions, she’s built a toolbox she’s ready to share.

“I dealt with all that and still trained every summer. I want to help athletes train smarter.”

A Legacy That Runs in the Family

Basketball runs deep in the Smith household. Desiree Smith is the younger sister of Dennis Smith Jr., a North Carolina basketball icon and NBA veteran known for his athleticism and creativity. The former McDonald’s All-American starred at NC State before being selected 9th overall in the 2017 NBA Draft.

“We’re close,” she says. “He watches my games, gives me feedback. He always tells me not to be afraid to ask for help.”

While she values her independence, her brother’s support adds motivation and perspective.

From Highlight Reels to National Spotlight

Stats didn’t just drive Smith’s breakout. She became a central figure in the Brick by Brick docuseries, which showcased her grit and game.

“That show helped me a lot,” she says. “I couldn’t really make my own highlight reels. But the footage they got—it showed what I could do.”

For players at smaller HBCUs, visibility can be the difference between being overlooked and being recruited. Smith seized the moment.

Ready to Lead, Ready to Prove It

Let’s be honest—winning at Mississippi Valley State won’t be easy. But Smith isn’t chasing easy. She’s built for the hard route.

From injury setbacks to HBCU championships, from being counted out to making believers, her journey reflects everything that defines HBCU basketball: heart, hustle, and hunger.

With one season left, Desiree Smith is ready to write her final chapter—and it’s going to be loud.

“I know what I’m signing up for,” she says. “And I’m ready for it.”

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“They decided they were coming to FAMU, Georgia ? also known as Atlanta,” Suggs said during the AD’s Breakfast on May 30. “So once October 4, we won’t be in Itta Bena, Mississippi. We will play Mississippi Valley State University in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.”

The change in venue means the Rattlers will make yet another high-profile appearance in the ATL—a city that’s been good to FAMU in recent years. In 2023, the Rattlers captured their first-ever Celebration Bowl title with a thrilling 30-26 win over Howard. FAMU clinched its 16th HBCU football championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. In 2024, they edged Norfolk State 24-23 in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge at Center Parc Stadium, the former home of the Atlanta Braves.

But this year’s game comes with an added edge.

Revenge Game

Last season, MVSU shocked the HBCU football world by pulling off one of the biggest upsets in recent memory—snapping FAMU’s 23-game home win streak at Bragg Memorial Stadium. That streak dated back over five seasons. Even more stunning? It was Valley’s only win of the 2024 season.

The October 4 rematch now gets a much bigger stage—and a chance for FAMU to settle the score.

Adding another layer of intrigue: both head coaches share Florida State bloodlines. MVSU’s Terrell Buckley, a Jim Thorpe Award winner and former NFL standout, starred at cornerback for the Seminoles from 1989 to 1991. FAMU’s James Colzie III followed a few years later, suiting up in garnet and gold from 1993 to 1996.

Buckley is entering his first season leading the Delta Devils, and Colzie is stepping into year two as the leader of the Rattler football program.

With storylines stacked, a revenge narrative in play, and two former FSU corners going head-to-head on NFL turf, this HBCU clash promises fireworks. And Atlanta—aka FAMU, Georgia—is ready for the show.

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For a transitioning program, Totten’s arrival brings not only credibility but also a wealth of experience steeped in the greatness of Black college football.

A Legendary Playing Career at Mississippi Valley State

Totten made history at Mississippi Valley State in the early 1980s. As the quarterback, he teamed up with wide receiver Jerry Rice to form one of the most explosive duos in college football history. The two shattered multiple NCAA records in a high-powered offense that grabbed national attention.

While Rice went on to NFL stardom and became one of the greatest receivers of all time, Totten’s pro path was less conventional. He played in the Canadian Football League, the Arena Football League, and briefly in the NFL as a replacement player during the 1987 strike.

Totten’s Deep Ties to HBCU Football and the SWAC

Totten’s legacy goes far beyond his playing days. He returned to Mississippi Valley State in various coaching roles, eventually serving as head coach from 2002 to 2009. His deep connection with the school is undeniable—the football stadium in Itta Bena, Mississippi, is named Rice-Totten Stadium in honor of the legendary pair.

His influence has remained strong in HBCU football, where he has served in several coaching and administrative roles. Few figures are more connected to the heartbeat of HBCU football than Willie Totten.

A Major Boost for First-Year Coach Marlon Watson

Fort Valley State is entering a new chapter with head coach Marlon Watson at the helm. Bringing in a proven leader like Totten, who understands the culture, history, and grind of HBCU football, gives the Wildcats an edge few Division II programs can claim.

Totten’s knowledge, leadership, and legacy will be invaluable for player development, especially at the quarterback position. His presence also sends a strong message to recruits: Fort Valley is serious about returning to the top.

For Watson and his staff, Totten isn’t just another assistant. He’s a walking chapter of HBCU football history. His presence will be instrumental in developing quarterbacks, instilling discipline, and raising the bar across the board. More than anything, he gives Fort Valley State instant credibility, reminding players and recruits alike that greatness is within reach when legends lead the way.

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A former 3-star recruit, once one of the state’s most electrifying high school players, is transferring to Mississippi Valley State to continue his college football career after FBS stops in the SEC and Sun Belt. For Mississippi Valley and Dante Kelly, it’s deeper than just another transfer—it’s a full-circle return to his roots and the HBCU in his backyard.

Hometown Kid, Hometown HBCU

Dante Kelly isn’t just from Mississippi—he’s from Itta Bena. He played his high school ball for head coach Eric House at Leflore County High School. Under House’s leadership, the Tigers became a formidable force in Mississippi’s Class 2A football. Leflore County clinched back-to-back district championships in 2021 and 2022, including a team record with a 70-point win in 2022, Dante Kelly’s senior season.

During that 2022 season, Kelly was nearly unstoppable. He was named Mississippi Small School All-State after leading Leflore County with 105 tackles and four interceptions. His stellar play earned 3-star status from Rivals and 247Sports, ranking among the top 50 players in Mississippi and drawing attention from Power 4 football programs.

Kelly would commit to Vanderbilt, getting the chance to play in the SEC and earn a top-tier education. “Vanderbilt is getting a very special player who I think one day will be a NFL talent. The sky is the limit for Dante,” Eric House told VandySports.com. “The things that stick out with Dante is his physical attributes. He’s 6-foot-3 and around 210-pounds. He’s very athletic. What sticks out is definitely his speed especially his speed and agility for that size.”

A Detour Through the SEC and Southern Miss

Limited playing time and a coaching change marked Kelly’s time at Vanderbilt. After one redshirt season, Kelly entered the transfer portal, landing at Southern Miss—a move that brought him closer to home, but not all the way.

At Southern Miss, he still didn’t quite find his rhythm. After fighting through depth chart battles in Hattiesburg, Kelly made a decision that surprised some but made perfect sense to those in the HBCU community.

He came home. Home to Itta Bena. To Mississippi Valley State University. Home to the HBCU that’s been right in his backyard all along.

Mississippi Valley State: A Program with History—and a Hill to Climb

Mississippi Valley State isn’t new to making headlines. This is the school where Jerry Rice became a legend, catching passes from Willie Totten in one of the most prolific college offenses ever. It’s an HBCU with a rich football tradition, though recent years have been tough.

A combination of low funding, poor facilities, and coaching turnover has kept the Delta Devils near the bottom of the FCS rankings. They haven’t had a winning season in over a decade, going 1-11 in 2024.

But change could be on the horizon.

The school recently hired Terrell Buckley as the 19th head football coach of the Delta Devils. A native of Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buckley’s return to the Magnolia State signifies a homecoming for the CFB great and successful NFL player whose football journey began on Mississippi soil. His appointment resonates deeply with the community, symbolizing a shared journey with Dante Kelly, as they both are returning to their roots to uplift their hometown HBCU.

“We’re going to build a culture of accountability, hard work, and belief – because winning starts with the standards we set and the mindset we bring every single day,” Buckley stated upon his hiring.

With Buckley’s leadership and a player of Dante Kelly’s caliber, MVSU aims to rekindle the spirit of its storied past and forge a new path forward, embodying the resilience and pride of Mississippi Valley’s football legacy.

A Comeback Story in the Making

Kelly brings Power Five experience, SEC-level conditioning, and a competitive edge that the current roster lacks. His presence instantly boosts the defense and gives it a player who can match up against top FCS talent. He’s also a symbol—a hopeful proof point that local talent doesn’t have to leave to be great.

At a time when college athletes are chasing the biggest brands and NIL checks, Kelly made a different kind of move. He chose heart over hype. Returning to an HBCU in your hometown isn’t a common path for a former SEC athlete. But for Dante Kelly, it just might be the perfect one.

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Understanding the APR

The APR is a metric used by the NCAA to monitor the academic performance and retention of student-athletes. Each team is scored on a scale up to 1000, with a minimum multi-year average of 930 required to avoid penalties. Scores below this threshold can lead to sanctions such as practice reductions or postseason bans.

APR Scores and Penalties

In the 2022–2023 academic year, UAPB’s football program recorded an APR of 914, while MVSU posted a score of 904. Both scores fall below the NCAA’s 930 benchmark, resulting in Level One penalties, including practice reductions. Additionally, these programs are barred from postseason competition.

In contrast, Florida A&M University (FAMU) received an APR of 911. While also below the threshold, FAMU’s penalty was limited to a reduction in practice time, without a postseason ban.

Impact on Programs

Both UAPB and MVSU have faced financial constraints that affect their athletic departments. Limited resources can hinder academic support services for athletes, contributing to lower APR scores. These sanctions may also impact recruiting efforts and could lead to increased transfers, as athletes often seek programs with postseason opportunities.

In the 2024 season, MVSU’s football team struggled, finishing with a 1–11 record. UAPB also faced on-field challenges in 2024 that reflected broader issues within the program. While neither team was expected to contend for postseason play, the imposed sanctions could exacerbate difficulties in building competitive and academically compliant teams.

Historical Context

HBCU programs have historically been overrepresented among programs penalized for low APR scores. 2015 for example, 15 of the 21 teams facing postseason bans were from HBCUs. This trend highlights systemic challenges, including funding disparities and resource limitations, that affect academic support for student-athletes at these institutions.

Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort to enhance academic resources and support systems within HBCU athletic programs. Improving APR scores is essential for compliance and the long-term success and stability of these teams.

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ITTA BENA, Miss. — Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is proud to announce the hiring of Kimberly Wade as the new head coach of the Devilettes HBCU volleyball program. Wade brings a wealth of experience in coaching, player development, and education to the Delta.

A seasoned coach and educator, Wade has cultivated a strong background in volleyball over the past two decades. Most recently, she served as an assistant volleyball coach at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, where she helped mentor athletes and elevate their skills in fundamental and advanced techniques. Prior to her collegiate coaching role, Wade built a powerhouse program at Ridgeway High School in Memphis, Tennessee, serving as head coach from 2007 to 2013. During her tenure, she was responsible for leading all facets of the volleyball program, including player development, game strategy, and talent scouting.

In addition to her coaching credentials, Wade is a dedicated educator with extensive experience as a substitute teacher, math instructor, and special education teaching assistant for Memphis Shelby County Schools. Her commitment to student-athletes’ academic and personal growth aligns with MVSU’s mission to foster excellence both on and off the court.

Highest Standard

Wade earned her Bachelor of Arts in Human Development from Christian Brothers University in Memphis, Tennessee. She holds multiple certifications, including USAV Delta Region Volleyball Coaching Certification, NCAA Recruiting Certification, and Safe Sport Coaching credentials, reflecting her commitment to upholding the highest standards of coaching and player safety.

“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Wade to the Valley,” said Mississippi Valley State University Director of Athletics. “Her passion for the game, focus on holistic player development, and commitment to academic achievement make her the perfect fit to lead our volleyball program into a new era of success.”

Wade is equally excited about the opportunity to coach an HBCU volleyball program. “I am honored to join the Mississippi Valley State family and lead the Devilettes,” Wade said. “I am committed to building a competitive program centered on discipline, teamwork, and resilience…I look forward to working with our student-athletes to help them grow as players, students, and leaders.”

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Davis enters the portal with two years of college eligibility remaining.

“Sincere gratitude to the entire MVSU football coaching staff for the opportunity and believing in my potential to achieve greatness,” Davis wrote in a statement on X, formerly Twitter. “To my teammates who became my brothers, thank you for supporting my growth and encouraging me through adversity.

HBCU All-American

In two seasons at Mississippi Valley State, Davis caught 66 passes for 772 yards and four touchdowns. He finished his first season with the Delta Devils as an FCS All-American, registering 36 receptions for 406 yards and three touchdowns. Davis was tabbed as one of 22 offensive players and one of two tight ends to earn All-American recognition in 2023.

In the 2024 HBCU football campaign, the 6-foot-4, 215-pound Davis notched his best receiving games against Bethune-Cookman and Prairie View. Against the Wildcats, Davis registered 54 receiving yards on seven receptions while he tallied his largest receiving output (86 yards) on seven catches that included his longest reception (34 yards) of the season. The Glenn Heights, Texas native, earned first-team All-SWAC honors and finished 11th among all wide receivers in receiving yards last season.

Jaxson Davis served as the Delta Devils’ second-leading receiver behind Nathan Rembert. A wide receiver who finished second in the SWAC in receiving yards (1,038) on 70 receptions and four touchdowns. He was part of an MVSU offense that finished at the bottom of the conference in scoring offense (16.8 points per game) but was a unit that ranked sixth in pass offense (198.6 yards) and 10th in total offense (284.8 yards per game). Rembert has since entered the transfer portal and transferred to Jackson State and is expected to be a difference maker for the reigning HBCU National Champions.

The Delta Devils went 2-21 over the last two seasons, including a 1-11 record in 2024.

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Here’s how the HBCU trail unfolds: Mississippi Valley State, an HBCU in the SWAC, defeated fellow HBCU Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Pine Bluff then beat Texas Southern, another proud HBCU program. Texas Southern took down Alabama A&M, another SWAC HBCU, who then beat Coastal Carolina. From there, the chain runs through Georgia State, Tulsa, and Temple before reaching Memphis, which beat Missouri—who, incredibly, handed Florida one of its rare losses during the season.

So, by the twisted logic of “team A beat team B” all the way up the ladder, Mississippi Valley State—again, the 364th team out of 364—can lay a humorous, if entirely unofficial, claim to being part of the national title conversation.

This chaotic chain reminds us of the deep interconnectedness of college basketball and how, on any given night, even a struggling HBCU can topple a giant—or at least someone who eventually helps topple a giant. While it doesn’t change the standings, it highlights the competitive spirit alive across all levels, including the HBCU ranks.

In a season where parity ruled and madness reigned, it’s only fitting that four different HBCUs helped form a chain that connects college basketball’s basement to its summit.

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Morant’s transfer adds a new chapter to her basketball journey. Which began with a standout high school career and continued with her commitment to play at the Division I level for an HBCU.

High School Career

At Houston High School in Germantown, Tennessee, Teniya showcased her prowess on the basketball court. Standing at 5-foot-3, she played as a senior guard and was instrumental in leading the Mustangs to a 16-6 record during her senior year. She averaged 12.6 points per game, 4.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.4 steals. Notably, she achieved a season-high of 22 points in a decisive 70-45 victory over St. Agnes Academy.

Teniya’s dedication and skill on the court did not go unnoticed. Despite not holding any offers early in her recruiting process, her performance on the court drew national attention. Reminiscent of her brother Ja Morants’ under-the-radar recruitment before his emergence at Murray State.

Commitment to HBCU Basketball

In May 2023, Teniya announced her commitment to Mississippi Valley State University, an HBCU in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). This decision was major for both Morant and the HBCU, as MVSU was the first Division I program to offer her a scholarship in January of that year. Her commitment was met with enthusiasm, especially given her family’s history with HBCU hoops, as her father, Tee Morant, played basketball at Claflin University.

MVSU’s women’s basketball program had faced an uphill battle coming into Morant’s freshman season. The Devilettes finished the previous season with a 2-27 record and a 0-18 standing in the SWAC. Teniya’s addition was seen as a potential catalyst for revitalizing the team’s performance. Her high school coach, Justin Lewis, praised her tenacity and work ethic in an interview with The Commercial Appeal, stating, “They’re getting a tenacious player that gives it her all on the floor. Somebody that’s going to be vocal. She’s going to work hard.”

Teniya Morant appeared in three games during the 2024–25 season for Mississippi Valley State. Logging limited minutes and recording no points, rebounds, or assists. Her time on the court included short stints against Lipscomb, Arkansas State, and Alabama A&M, with a total of just 12 minutes played.

Transition and Current Status

In an Instagram post from April 3rd, 2025, Teniya Morant announced that she had decided to enter the transfer portal and leave the MVSU women’s basketball program.

Teniya Morant’s journey underscores the dynamic nature of collegiate athletics, especially within HBCU programs. Her initial commitment brought hope and excitement to not only MVSU’s women’s basketball but HBCU women’s hoops as a whole. Now, her departure opens conversations about athlete transitions and the factors influencing such decisions.

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MVSU entered the tournament with a 7-22 overall record and a 6-12 mark in SWAC play, while Florida A&M stood at 9-20 overall and 6-12 in the conference. FAMU won by 28 points in the only regular-season matchup between the two schools. The Devilettes tied the game at 57 with 38 seconds remaining when Jaylia Reed leaked out for an uncontested layup after a missed FAMU jumper. The Rattlers missed an opportunity to retake the lead after a missed jumper from Sabou Gueye with 19 seconds remaining. Valley missed two shots in the final three seconds, leading to the overtime.

In overtime, Mississippi Valley State dominated from the free throw line to seal the win. The Devilettes shot 7-8 from the line in the final frame, while FAMU failed to get to the line.

Leading the charge for Mississippi Valley State was Reed who scored a team-high 18 points, including going 3-8 on three-point shots. Junior guard D’Yanna Maxey scored 14 points while Clemisha Prackett scored 16 points and pulled down 8 rebounds.

On the defensive end, Mississippi Valley State employed a stifling press that disrupted Florida A&M’s offensive rhythm and forced 20 turnovers. The Rattlers also struggled from the three-point line, going 3-16 for a paltry 18 percent.

This victory propels Mississippi Valley State into the quarterfinals, where they will face the top-seeded Southern Jaguars, who finished the regular season with a 15-3 conference record. Mississippi Valley State, perpetually one of the worst teams in HBCU and college basketball, have been on a hot streak as of late. It lost its first nine SWAC games to start the season and was just 2-12 in conference play as the calendar turned to march.

For Florida A&M, the loss marks the end of their tournament run for second-year coach Bridgette Gordon. FAMU has only made the SWAC Tournament twice, both under Gordon.

Both first-round women’s games in the 2025 SWAC basketball tournament went into overtime.

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Sam Parker’s Background and Achievements

Sam Parker joins Mississippi Valley State University after a notable tenure at Ferris State University. A former offensive tackle, Parker began his coaching career at Ferris State in 2016. Over eight seasons, he played a pivotal role in developing one of the most formidable offenses in Division II football. Under his guidance, Ferris State secured multiple national championships, including 2021, 2022, and 2024 titles. The team’s offensive prowess was evident, consistently ranking among the top in various statistical categories. Parker’s expertise in crafting high-powered offenses is anticipated to invigorate the Delta Devils’ performance on the field.

Ferris State’s Offensive Dominance

During Parker’s tenure, Ferris State’s football program experienced unparalleled success. The Bulldogs’ offense, characterized by a balanced and explosive attack, was a cornerstone of their championship runs. The team’s ability to adapt and execute complex offensive schemes made them formidable opponents, leading to sustained excellence in Division II football. Parker’s contributions were instrumental in shaping this offensive identity, and his transition to MVSU is poised to bring a similar level of innovation and effectiveness.

Terrell Buckley and Sam Parker’s collaboration hopes to elevate the HBCU football program in a unique way under the former NFL vet. The combination of Buckley’s defensive acumen and Parker’s offensive ingenuity could position the Delta Devils for a competitive resurgence in the upcoming seasons.

Terrell Buckley’s Appointment at MVSU

Terrell Buckley’s illustrious career began as a standout cornerback at Florida State University, where he set multiple records and earned unanimous All-American honors in 1991. He was the fifth overall pick in the 1992 NFL Draft and enjoyed a 14-season career in the NFL, securing a Super Bowl title with the New England Patriots in 2001. Transitioning into coaching, Buckley has held various positions at Florida State, Akron, Louisville, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss.

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ITTA BENA, Miss. – Mississippi Valley State University is proud to officially announce Terrell Buckley as the 19th head football coach of the Delta Devils. A former NFL Pro Bowl cornerback and esteemed collegiate coach, Buckley brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and passion for the game as he steps into this new role in HBCU football.

“It is a beautiful day to be at Mississippi Valley State University,” said MVSU President Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr. “We are here to support our new football coach and his family 1000 percent. I am just excited to be here today as we look forward to an outstanding season. On behalf of our entire University family, we are going to stay in MOTION!”

A native of Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buckley is no stranger to the Magnolia State or the gridiron. As a standout at Florida State University, he became one of the most electrifying defensive backs in college football history, earning the prestigious Jim Thorpe Award in 1991, an honor given to the nation’s top defensive back. Buckley finished his collegiate career with an astounding 21 interceptions, cementing his place as one of the most accomplished players in the sport.

Buckley’s success continued at the professional level. Selected by the Green Bay Packers as the fifth overall pick in the 1992 NFL Draft, he went on to enjoy a 14-year career in the league, playing for teams such as the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and New York Jets. He capped his professional career with a Super Bowl XXXVI victory as a member of the Patriots.

Since transitioning to coaching, Buckley has brought the same tenacity and expertise to the sidelines. His coaching career spans various roles, including stints at Florida State, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss. Most recently, he served as the head coach of the Orlando Guardians in the XFL, where he was lauded for his leadership and ability to develop young talent.

“Why Valley for me? I am Mississippi Made! I have dreamed of being a head coach in the state of Mississippi!” said Buckley. “This is a family thing. We are stronger together. Embracing change and hard work, never ever fails.”

Buckley inherits an HBCU football program with a storied history, including producing legendary alumni like NFL Hall of Famer Deacon Jones and standout wide receiver Jerry Rice. His appointment signals a new era for Delta Devils football, one rooted in excellence, discipline, and a renewed focus on recruiting top-tier talent from both within Mississippi and beyond.

Mississippi Valley State University Interim Athletic Director George Ivory expressed his excitement about the hire, emphasizing the university’s commitment to revitalizing the football program. “I would like to thank the search committee for a job well done in selecting Coach Buckley. From winning the Jim Thorpe Award in college, we look forward to Coach Buckley adding the title of best football coach in the conference (SWAC).”

As the Delta Devils prepare for the upcoming HBCU football season, excitement is already building among students, alumni, and supporters. Terrell Buckley’s arrival marks a pivotal moment for MVSU football.

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Buckley takes over for Kendrick Wade, who was recently named the University of Memphis’ tight ends coach after being dismissed from MVSU following the 2024 season.  

A native of Pascagoula, Mississippi, Buckley’s connection to the state runs deep. His storied playing career includes winning the Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s top defensive back at Florida State and capturing a Super Bowl ring with the New England Patriots. After years in the NFL, Buckley transitioned to coaching, where he developed talent at both collegiate and professional levels, most recently as head coach of the XFL’s Orlando Guardians.  

“We’re going to build a culture of accountability, hard work, and belief,” said Buckley. “Winning starts with the standards we set and the mindset we bring every single day.”  

MVSU Interim Athletic Director George Ivory expressed confidence in Buckley’s ability to elevate the program. “Coach Buckley brings a winning mindset, a commitment to developing our student-athletes, and a vision that aligns with our values.”  

This hire signifies MVSU’s commitment to revitalizing its college football football program. Buckley’s leadership aims to highlight the significance of HBCU football on a national stage, showcasing the program’s potential while fostering academic and athletic excellence.  

University President Dr. Jerryl Briggs said, “We are thrilled to have Coach Buckley lead our football program. We are in motion!”  

The SWAC school has long been considered the worst Division I football program in HBCU football. But clearly it is hoping that with Buckley at the helm, MVSU is poised for a new era of success and pride in Itta Bena.

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Kendrick Wade was the 18th head coach to lead the Delta Devils when he was hired in January 2023. Known for his exceptional recruiting and motivational skills, Wade inherited a program in need of rebuilding. His first season saw the team produce two All-Americans and a finalist for the Jerry Rice FCS Freshman of the Year Award. Tight end Jaxson Davis and defensive back Omar Emmons earned All-American honors, while quarterback Ty’Jarrian William garnered national attention for his performance.

Prior to taking over at MVSU, Kendrick Wade had built a reputation as one of the nation’s top wide receiver coaches. His coaching journey included successful stints at Delta State University, where he helped lead the team to an explosive offensive season and an 11-2 record in 2022, and Fort Valley State University, where he developed NFL talent like Shemar Bridges. Wade’s experience extended to Briar Cliff University and multiple high school programs, where he consistently elevated offensive playmakers.

As an HBCU graduate, Wade’s ties to MVSU and his passion for developing talent made his hiring a significant moment for the Delta Devils. However, the challenges of competing in the highly competitive Southwestern Athletic Conference proved insurmountable as it went 2-21 in his tenure, including a 1-11 mark in 2024.

Now he will head up to the FBS level and work towards improving Memphis football. 

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Mississippi State University Head football coach Jeff Lebby announced Monday that he is adding Phil Loadholt (Assistant Coach/Offensive Line), Vincent Dancy (Assistant Coach/Defensive Ends & Outside Linebackers), and Paul Rhoads (Senior Defensive Analyst) to the coaching staff of the SEC school. Vincent Dancy was the head coach of HBCU Mississippi Valley State University from 2018-2022.

Loadholt and Dancy will come to the SEC after spending the 2024 season as assistant coaches at Colorado. The duo quickly showcased their ability to recruit top talent and develop players during their short time in Boulder. 

Dancy’s defensive ends helped the Buffaloes lead the Big 12 in both sacks and tackles for loss while ranking 13th and 16th nationally in those categories, respectively. Colorado’s defense also led the Big 12 and ranked 12th nationally in Coaches By The Numbers’ Defensive Mayhem rating, which accounts for sacks, tackles for loss, interceptions, and fumbles gained. The Buffaloes also boasted the Big 12’s top pass-rushing grade as a team as well as the conference’s top two graded individual pass rushers in 2024 according to PFF. 

Dancy, a Shuqualak, Mississippi, native and standout player at Noxubee County High School, joined Deion Sanders’ first staff at Colorado in 2023 as an analyst before being elevated to defensive ends coach a year later. Prior to his time in Boulder, he spent eight seasons as an HBCU football head coach at Mississippi Valley State including the last five (2018-22) as head coach. He served as the program’s defensive coordinator during his first three seasons (2015-17) with the Delta Devils. 

Dancy has been considered one of the rising stars in college coaching. Before landing this role in the SEC, his coaching career began at his HBCU alma mater Jackson State. He coached for five seasons (2009-13) before a one-year stint at Paine College. Dancy was an All-SWAC linebacker at Jackson State from 2002-05. 

“As a native Mississippian and long-time experienced coach inside our great state, Vincent is incredibly connected and carries a tremendous amount of respect inside our recruiting footprint,” Lebby said. “His relationships, recruiting ties and defensive coaching prowess will make an instant impact on our program, and I’m thrilled for him to become a part of the Mississippi State Family.” 

“Mississippi is home,” Dancy said. “Growing up here, I’m well aware of the well-documented history of defensive excellence at Mississippi State. I couldn’t be more fired up to return to this great state – a place that means so much to me and my family. Thank you to Coach Lebby for this opportunity to join his incredible staff. I’m excited about the future in Starkville.” 

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The answer to me is simple. I remember Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009, like it was yesterday. I was a media person covering the FAMU Marching “100” in the inaugural parade of President Barack Obama. It was freezing cold, slightly raining at some points, long delayed because of a medical emergency, and historic at the same time.

I remember sitting in formation for nearly two hours after leaving the various security clearing positions. Because of the long line of parade performers, we were not able to go back to a warm shelter because of the medical delay at the swearing-in ceremony. We ran in circles, huddled up, and told jokes to pass the time away.

I also remember looking around during that time. We were in Washington, D.C. at one of the most sacred events on Earth. It was a historical moment. It was a moment that only happens once every four years and not everyone has been invited to participate in the historic event. That performance ending near Pennsylvania Avenue with the President of the United States and the first family saluting our band is one of the most patriotic things I’ve ever taken part in.

Not every band has on their resume that they have marched in an inaugural parade. It is an honor not to be taken lightly. It will forever be a part of the history of the university.

Most importantly, for the college students who march in the band, it will be an unforgettable adventure. First, I must admit that the bus ride from Ita Bena, Mississippi will be a long one. A Google map search indicates the ride will be over 15 hours. However, college students bond and pass the time. With the little time this younger generation spends actually socializing, it is much-needed face-to-face interaction. It will be a time they will never forget.

The anxiety of the security measures will be exciting once they are done. Going through the Pentagon parking lot they will have to disembark their bus, let the police dogs on, walk through a very sensitive metal detector, and then reload the bus. They will all have to attain  Secret Service clearance in advance. There will be no doubt they will be at an official presidential event.

The entire parade route will be littered with military, federal agents, and every law enforcement officer known to man. They will be staggered two-deep and about six feet apart for the duration of the parade route. Additionally, military snipers will be on most federal buildings to prevent any attacks. That left a lasting impression on the gravity of the event that remains to this day.

Finally, when they walk past the president’s grandstand with bulletproof glass, they will realize how integral a part they will play in our country’s history. That can’t be taken for granted and can never be taken away from either the band members or the university.

While some still contend that Mississippi Valley State should not attend the Presidential Inauguration Parade and support President Donald Trump, I offer this suggestion. Mississippi is one of the lowest-funded higher education systems. Even the larger schools like Mississippi State complain of the deficiency in funding. If that school is complaining about its deficiencies, imagine the plight of the little HBCU in western Mississippi. One thing we do know about President Donald Trump, he is known to support his supporters. This could result in a shot in the arm that Mississippi Valley State sorely needs.

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Itta Bena, MS— The celebrated “Mean Green Marching Machine” HBCU marching band from Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) has received an invitation to participate in the 60th Presidential Inauguration Parade in Washington, D.C., on January 20, 2025. This historic invitation highlights the band’s legacy of excellence and cultural significance, showcasing the university and Mississippi’s rich heritage globally.

This invitation continues MVSU’s tradition of groundbreaking national performances. In 1965, the band became the first Historically Black College or University (HBCU) ensemble to march in the Tournament of Roses Parade. They returned to Pasadena in 1968 and performed in President Richard Nixon’s inaugural parade on Jan. 20, 1969. These milestones reflect the band’s enduring legacy as cultural ambassadors for Mississippi and the HBCU community.

The total cost of this historic trip, including travel, accommodations, meals, and equipment, is approximately $350,000. MVSU is committed to ensuring that every student can participate regardless of financial circumstances. The university asks alums, supporters, and the community to support this monumental endeavor.

“This is not just a moment of pride for our university but for the entire state of Mississippi,” said Dr. Jerryl Briggs, MVSU President. “It is an opportunity to showcase our legacy, celebrate our culture, and invest in the future leaders of our community.” This participation allows students to engage in the peaceful transition of power and gain global exposure while celebrating the university’s 75th anniversary,” Briggs added. 

To contribute to the Mississippi Valley State University “Mean Green Marching Machine’s” journey to the 60th Presidential Inauguration Parade, please click: https://gofund.me/4820bda6

About the Mean Green Marching Machine

Since its founding, the band has held an important place in the life of the university and throughout the state. It has provided music for athletic events, pep rallies, and special university functions. The Symphonic Band has presented concerts of a cultural and entertainment value to students, faculty and the local community.  Our primary focus is to provide students the educational support needed to become excellent music educators and music performers. Music scholarships are available to both music majors and non-majors.

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Wade, who returned to MVSU in January 2023, was the 18th head coach to lead the Delta Devils. Known for his exceptional recruiting and motivational skills, Wade inherited a program in need of rebuilding. His first season saw the team produce two All-Americans and a finalist for the Jerry Rice FCS Freshman of the Year Award. Tight end Jaxson Davis and defensive back Omar Emmons earned All-American honors, while quarterback Ty’Jarrian William garnered national attention for his performance.

Prior to taking over at MVSU, Wade had built a reputation as one of the nation’s top wide receiver coaches. His coaching journey included successful stints at Delta State University, where he helped lead the team to an explosive offensive season and an 11-2 record in 2022, and Fort Valley State University, where he developed NFL talent like Shemar Bridges. Wade’s experience extended to Briar Cliff University and multiple high school programs, where he consistently elevated offensive playmakers.

As an HBCU graduate, Wade’s ties to MVSU and his passion for developing talent made his hiring a significant moment for the Delta Devils. However, the challenges of competing in the highly competitive Southwestern Athletic Conference proved insurmountable.

While the wins may have been few, Wade’s impact as a recruiter and developer of young talent underscores the complexity of coaching at the HBCU level. MVSU now begins the search for a new head coach to lead the program forward.

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The University released a statement on the death of Quinney early Saturday afternoon.

“We are heartbroken to share that our beloved student, Ryan Quinney, tragically lost his life in a car accident last night. Ryan was a bright light in our community with a spirit that lifted everyone around him. He will be deeply missed by his friends, faculty, and all who knew him.

During this difficult time, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Ryan’s family and loved ones. Please keep them, along with his friends and classmates, in your thoughts and prayers. Let us remember Ryan’s impact on our lives and honor his memory by supporting each other through this loss.

Rest in peace, Ryan.”

WAPT-TV reports that according to Yazoo County Coroner Ricky Shivers, the car Quinney was a passenger in was fleeing from the Mississippi Highway Patrol on Friday night. According to Shivers the chase started in Flora, MS, and continued into Yazoo City, where the driver lost control, left the road, struck a parked vehicle before becoming airborne and flipping several times.

The driver was rescued from the scene, but Quinney was pronounced dead at the scene according to the report.

Quinney, a linebacker on the team, played in five of the first six games this season for the Delta Devils. His last appearance came against Alabama State on October 12 in Montgomery.

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McKnight’s stat line in Mississippi Valley’s season-opening 89-78 loss to Memphis included 22 points, 8 assists, 8 rebounds, and 9 steals, a standout all-around effort that had fans on the edge as she flirted with a rare quadruple-double. Her performance exemplifies the drive and skills honed in HBCU programs, even in tough matchups like this one. Kerra Jones added 15 points for Mississippi Valley State. 

Another player with HBCU roots, Ti’lan “Tilly” Boler, also made waves in this game for Memphis. Boler, who previously played for Jackson State, put up 11 points and contributed 4 rebounds and one steal in Memphis’s victory. Boler’s transition from Jackson State to Memphis is a testament to the strength and versatility of HBCU athletes, who increasingly demonstrate they can compete and succeed at multiple levels.

Despite Sh’Diamond McKnight’s dynamic play, Memphis’s defense and control of the boards ultimately sealed the game. Memphis out-rebounded Mississippi Valley 52-33, taking advantage of second-chance opportunities. However, McKnight’s performance underscored her as one of the most electrifying players to watch in HBCU sports this season, continuing the tradition of HBCU athletes making a mark through sheer tenacity and skill. This matchup, though a loss for Mississippi Valley State, serves as a reminder of the impact HBCU talent has on college basketball, setting the stage for more players to emerge and thrive on both HBCU and broader athletic stages. 

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Under McClellan’s leadership, several significant projects and partnerships were realized at MVSU, including a partnership with Kimbrough Trucking, a Black-owned business in Indianola, Mississippi, resulting in the donation of an 18-wheeler truck, upgraded the tennis courts, updated the track, enhanced the softball deck, upgraded the weight room, and installed new computers in the athletics academic lab. McClellan also initiated a stole ceremony for graduating student-athletes, created a student-athlete lounge, increased the Graduation Success Rate (GSR), improved Academic Progress Rates (APR), achieved the highest GPA in five years across all athletics, hung basketball championship banners, developed an app for university athletics, increased MVSU’s athletic social media presence, and launched Athletics Giving Tuesday.
 
This will be the second stint for McClellan at Jackson State University after he originally joined the Division of Athletics in July of 2018 and assumed the Associate Athletic Director for Compliance role. McClellan came from Prairie View A&M and worked as the Athletic Academic Advisor for the men’s baseball, women’s basketball, soccer, and track & field teams. In July of 2016, he was named PVAMU’s first Certification Officer in the Office of the Registrar.
 
He assumed his new role Monday afternoon.

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Dr. Jerryl Briggs, Sr., President of MVSU, expressed his excitement about the new developments in the athletics department and extended his gratitude to McClellan for his significant contributions over his two years of service.

“We are thrilled with the progress of our athletic facilities and the advancements across the campus,” said Dr. Briggs. AD McClellan has done an exceptional job of keeping MVSU moving forward, and working alongside him has been an honor. We wish him the best in his future endeavors. When you love MVSU as he does, MVSU will always love you back.”

In light of McClellan’s departure, Dr. Briggs announced that Head Basketball Coach and MVSU alum George Ivory (‘88) will serve as the interim athletic director.

“I am confident that Coach Ivory will excel in this role, as he has demonstrated his dedication and expertise in the past. George has a wealth of experience and a deep passion for MVSU,” Dr. Briggs added.

Since stepping into the position, McClellan has been instrumental in elevating MVSU’s athletic profile. The groundbreaking for the turf field project and the ribbon cutting for the Jumbotron are testaments to his vision and leadership.

“We have worked tirelessly to bring this vision to life. I am grateful to Dr. Briggs for supporting my vision and ensuring its realization. This would not have been possible without the backing of the president’s office,” said McClellan.

Additionally, McClellan commissioned the MVSU Office of Communications and Marketing to design a new athletic logo. Donnell Maxie, Director of Communications and Marketing, Senior Graphic Designer John McCall, and MVSU alum D’Artagnan Winford (’02) collaborated to create the new logo.

“I am thankful to the Office of Communications and Marketing for their efforts in developing this new logo. Mr. Maxie has been on the phone and emails working on getting our marks registered and trademarked, while Mr. McCall and Mr. Winford did an outstanding job. I believe this new logo will inspire new energy in our student-athletes,” McClellan explained.

Under McClellan’s leadership, several significant projects and partnerships were realized for the HBCU, including a partnership with Kimbrough Trucking, a Black-owned business in Indianola, Mississippi, resulting in the donation of an 18-wheeler truck, upgraded the tennis courts, updated the track, enhanced the softball deck, upgraded the weight room, and installed new computers in the athletics academic lab. McClellan also initiated a stole ceremony for graduating student-athletes, created a student-athlete lounge, increased the Graduation Success Rate (GSR), improved Academic Progress Rates (APR), achieved the highest GPA in five years across all athletics, hung basketball championship banners, developed an app for university athletics, increased MVSU’s athletic social media presence, and launched Athletics Giving Tuesday.

Dr. Briggs also stated, “As MVSU Athletics embarks on this exciting new chapter, we eagerly anticipate our programs’ continued growth and success under new leadership. Moreover, we are thrilled to announce an increase of $1.2 million in scholarships for our student-athletes for the upcoming academic year. Truly, great things are happening at the Valley! Together, we are One Goal. One Team. One Valley. In Motion!”

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Alcorn State University is getting $8,311,736 for repairs, renovation and expansion to the Davey L. Whitney Complex. The gymnasium is the home of the Alcorn State University Braves men’s and women’s basketball teams and men’s and women’s volleyball teams.

Jackson State University, the largest of the three Mississippi HBCUs, is set for the largest allotment of all the schools on the list: $23,020,794. That money is for repairs, renovation and upgrades to campus buildings and facilities, including McAllister-Whiteside Hall and other critical campus facilities. The monies will also be spent for the development of alternative water resources. A total of $7 million of JSU’s funds will go for the purchase of a new residence hall.

Mississippi Valley State University – the smallest of the three HBCUs – has been awarded $8,856,405 for the construction and furnishing of a new residence hall and related facilities. 

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A tweet from the Mississippi Valley State University Athletic Department on April 24th teased a bevy of new upgrades coming to the Mississippi HBCU and its nearly 1,900 undergraduate students.

According to the video, fans of MVSU football can expect a new turf football field and jumbotron added to Rice-Totten Stadium at Chuck Prophet Field, the 10,000-seat multi-purpose stadium that opened in 1958 as Magnolia Stadium and was renamed in 2000 in honor of former Mississippi Valley State football players Jerry Rice and Willie Totten, who set several NCAA Division I-AA records during their time in Itta Bena, MS in the 1980s.

In addition to the football upgrades, MVSU announced the resurfacing of its tennis courts, new signage, and school-colored metal panels for the Baseball/Softball pavilion. The Baseball/Softball pavilion will also get a roof overhang for rain protection, open-end bays for ventilation, and chainlink panels with vinyl baseball windscreen.

The video also showed a 360-degree rendering of the upcoming upgrades to the pavilion. Also included in the video was a rendering of new basketball/volleyball media rooms and an IRL photo of a new weight room that has already been completed.

The MVSU basketball and Volleyball programs operate out of the R.W. Harrison HPER Complex, a 5,000-seat multi-purpose arena in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Constructed in 1977, the complex went through $17.5 million worth of upgrades in 2016.

The post reads “As we continue to elevate, here are facility updates to be finished by the end of 2024” indicating that the weight room is complete, the jumbotron is “almost complete” and the upgrades for the football turf and Baseball/Softball pavilion will be “completed in 2024,” while the tennis courts are listed as “almost done.”

Mississippi Valley State athletics programs are looking to turn things around in terms of success on the field of play and these athletic facility upgrades could be the boost the school needs to get back on the winning track.

According to the championships page on the Mississippi Valley State website, the football team has never won a SWAC conference championship and its last trip to the NCAA playoffs was back in 1984 during the Rice-Totten era.

Valley’s men’s and women’s basketball teams haven’t won the SWAC since 2012, and its tennis, baseball, and volleyball squads are still looking for their first conference championships on record.

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Cooley’s coaching career spanned several decades, during which he made significant contributions to the development of young athletes and the evolution of coaching strategies. He gained widespread recognition for his unique approach to the game, blending traditional techniques with innovative tactics that challenged the status quo.

Born in 1940 in Sumrall, Mississippi, Archie Cooley played at Jackson State in the 1950s and 60s for legendary head coach John Merritt. He then turned to coaching, spending seven years as a high school coach before working for two seasons under Marino Casem at Alcorn State. He would head to Nashville to work for his college coach at Tennessee State before resurfacing at Mississippi Valley State.

Archie Cooley turns Mississippi Valley into HBCU force

Cooley arrived at Mississippi Valley State with a program that needed a lot of work. Future NFL player and HBCU coach Sam Washington was one of his star players early in his tenure before he recruited two young men that would re-write the history books. Cooley landed quarterback Willie Totten and wide receiver Jerry Rice and then went on to patent the “Satellite Express” – an offense that often used as many as five receivers at a time when many teams were still running the Wishbone and I-Formations regularly. It was during this period that he earned the nickname “The Gunslinger” from legendary newspaper reporter Roscoe Nance. 

The program went 24-7-1 from 1983 through 1985, by far the most successful stretch in program history. Cooley went 42-27-2 in his seven seasons in Ita Bena, which remains the best record in school history.

Cooley then went to Arkansas-Pine Bluff when it was still an NAIA program. He went 27-13-2, including a 9-1 season in 1990. Cooley spent one season at Norfolk State, going 3-7 with the CIAA program.

The final head coaching job for Archie Cooley came when he helped re-establish the football program at Paul Quinn College. He went 11-31 in seven seasons with the program before it was cut due to financial issues.

Cooley’s final record as a head coach stands at 83-78-5. But his impact on the game was much larger and continues to live on, not only in HBCU football but in the game overall. 

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“Please everyone get that message out,” Polk told the Clarion-Ledger. “The chair has killed my bill. That way, I can sleep at night.”

The bill was introduced last month to the Senate Colleges and University Committee that would have led to three of the state’s nine universities shutting down. Three of those institutions are HBCUs – Alcorn State University, Jackson State University, and Mississippi Valley State University. 

Instead, SB 7525 moved out of committee, which will study the “efficiency” of those universities. 

“We had hearings earlier this year where we were looking at things, and we now have a lot of data and information that was presented and that was about the enrollment cliff that we’re seeing across the country, and how that would impact our Mississippi universities,” UC Chair and bill sponsor Sen. Nicole Boyd, R-Oxford, told the committee Monday at the Mississippi Capitol. “We’ve seen declining enrollments at smaller universities, we’ve seen increasing enrollments at some of our other universities. This would give us an opportunity to look at that over the summer with the task force.”

Mississippi Valley State currently has the lowest total enrollment with just under 2,200 students.

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WOMEN’S

NORFOLK STATE VS DELAWARE STATE

Norfolk State snapped Delaware State’s two-game win streak on Saturday afternoon, handing it a 65-51 loss at Memorial Hall. The Spartans went into halftime with a 40-22 lead and were able to hold off the Hornets for the final 20 minutes.

Diamond Johnson scored 20 points to lead the way for Norfolk State. Johnson was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 4-of-7 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Spartans’ success, as 12 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.01 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

Savannah Brooks scored 18 points, while Deyonce Thompson added another 13 to lead the way for Delaware State. As a team, the Hornets had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.79 points per possession on 33% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 31% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Norfolk State outscored Delaware State in the paint 36 to 16
• Delaware State was plagued by seven unforced turnovers (11% of possessions)
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Spartans leading the entire game

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Norfolk State takes on UMES at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall, where the Spartans will look to continue their solid play in their return home. Meanwhile, Delaware State will hope for a better result on the road when they head to Burr Gymnasium for a battle with Howard.

HOWARD VS MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE

Howard earned an impressive MEAC win on Saturday afternoon, taking down UMES by a score of 64-48. The Bison got out to a 36-31 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Hawks again in the second half to come away with the victory.

Iyanna Warren and Kaiya Creek scored 18 and 17 points, respectively, to lead the way for Howard. The transition game was a big factor in the Bison’s success, as 13 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.93 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

Ariana Seawell scored 16 points, while Ja’la Bannerman added another seven to lead the way for UMES. Collectively, the Hawks were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 28% of field goal attempts and 20% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, UMES went 13-of-18.

• 52% of HU’s field goals were assisted
• UMES’s bench outscored HU’s bench 34 to 18
• The game had one lead change and one tie

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Howard takes on conference rival Delaware State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, UMES will hope for a better result on the road when they meet winning-streak riding Norfolk State at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall.

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL VS COPPIN STATE

North Carolina Central ended its three-game losing skid, defeating Coppin State in a 52-44 contest on Saturday afternoon at Physical Education Complex. The Eagles went into halftime trailing 20-18 but outscored the Eagles by 10 points in the second half to come back and win.

Morgan Callahan scored 19 points to lead the way for North Carolina Central. That performance included an impressive 14 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. North Carolina Central’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 46% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.04 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 25% shooting and 0.56 points per possession in the first half.

Angel Jones recorded 13 points and six rebounds, and Mossi Staples contributed another nine points to pace Coppin State. Collectively, the Eagles were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 25% of field goal attempts and 11% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Coppin State went 11-of-13.

• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 67.9 was a season-low for North Carolina Central
• Coppin State was plagued by nine unforced turnovers (13% of possessions)
• The game had seven lead changes and four ties

Both teams have their next games on March 4. North Carolina Central takes on conference rival Morgan State at Hill Field House, where the Eagles will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Coppin State will try to rebound when they take on MEAC foe South Carolina State at Physical Education Complex.

MORGAN STATE VS SOUTH CAROLINA STATE

Morgan State broke its streak of five consecutive losses, defeating South Carolina State in a 61-29 rout on Saturday afternoon at Hill Field House. The Lady Bears went into halftime with a 61-29 lead and were able to hold off the Lady Bulldogs for the final 20 minutes.

Laila Fair and Nakilah Johnson each scored 12 points to lead the way for Morgan State. As a whole, the Lady Bears were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.94 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. However, they did maximize their opportunities, turning the ball over just 11 times (12% of possessions).

South Carolina State was led by Jada Morgan, who scored eight points while collecting five boards. As a team, the Lady Bulldogs had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.45 points per possession on 21% shooting from the field. Even the uncontested attempts were not falling, as the team went a paltry 11-of-19 from the free throw line.

• Morgan State scored a season-high 39 points off the bench
• SC State’s 21% field goal percentage marked a season-low
• The Lady Bears led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Each team has its next game on March 4. Morgan State faces North Carolina Central at Hill Field House, where the Lady Bears will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, South Carolina State will try to turn things around when they take on Coppin St. at Physical Education Complex.

SOUTHERN VS BETHUNE-COOKMAN

Southern defeated Bethune-Cookman in a 65-59 overtime thriller at the F.G. Clark Activity Center on Saturday afternoon. Southern went into halftime with a 27-23 lead, but Bethune-Cookman fought back to tie things up at the end of regulation. The Wildcats could not finish the job though, as they were outscored 15-9 in overtime.

Raven White and Aniya Gourdine led the scoring for Southern, each contributing 11 points. As a whole, the Lady Jaguars were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.76 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. Their shooting woes were alleviated by a relentless pursuit on the boards. Their 13 offensive rebounds led to 14 big second chance points.

Karianna Woods scored 16 points, while Kayla White added another 14 to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. As a team, the Wildcats had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.72 points per possession on 36% shooting from the field. Those numbers include 17-of-45 on two-pointers, 3-of-11 on three-pointers, and 16-of-24 on free throws.

• Southern outhustled Bethune-Cookman, outscoring them 14 to 1 on second chance points
• Bethune-Cookman recorded assists on 60% of attempted field goals
• Genovea Johnson recorded a game-high +9 plus-minus

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Southern meets Florida A&M at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, where the Lady Jaguars will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Bethune-Cookman will hit the road once again when they head to the FCH Assembly Center for a battle with Grambling State.

ALABAMA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Alabama A&M handed Alabama State its eighth consecutive loss in a 58-47 contest at the Event Center on Saturday afternoon. The Bulldogs went into the break leading by two points, and then outscored the Lady Hornets 34-25 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Darian Burgin scored 14 points while grabbing a season-high six boards to lead the way for Alabama A&M. Despite Burgin’s performance, the team collectively struggled shooting the ball. They shot 30% from the field while scoring just 0.83 points per possession. They found an advantage on the fast break though, accumulating 16 points in transition.

Solangelei Akridge scored 15 points, while Cordasia Harris added another 10 to lead the way for Alabama State. Collectively, the Lady Hornets were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 35% of field goal attempts and 32% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Alabama State went 7-of-10.

• AAMU’s defense buoyed their offense, scoring 17 points off of 23 Alabama State turnovers
• Alabama State scored below 50 points for the 17th time this season
• Four lead changes and four ties were recorded in the game

Both teams have their next games on March 7. Alabama A&M takes on Grambling State at the Event Center, where the Bulldogs will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to rebound when they take on Southern at Dunn-Oliver Acadome.

GRAMBLING STATE VS FLORIDA A&M

Grambling State recorded its seventh straight win, handing Florida A&M a 65-54 loss at the FCH Assembly Center on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Tigers went into the break leading by one point, and then outscored the Lady Rattlers 31-21 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Jazmyne Jackson scored 24 points to lead the way for Grambling State. Jackson was dangerous from three-point land, connecting on 4-of-7 attempts. The Lady Tigers’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating their 65 points on 30% shooting from the field. Their cold shooting did not stop them from attacking, though. They drew 25 fouls on the defense, which ultimately led to 26 points on 81% shooting from the free throw line.

Olivia Delancy recorded 24 points and eight rebounds, and Nashani Gilbert contributed another 10 points to pace Florida A&M. Collectively, the Lady Rattlers were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 25% of field goal attempts and 6% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Florida A&M went 19-of-23.

• GSU’s bench outscored FAMU’s bench 21 to 7
• Florida A&M recorded a new season-high with 58 total rebounds
• The game had 10 lead changes and 11 ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Grambling State meets Bethune-Cookman at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Lady Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Florida A&M will hit the road once again when they meet a Southern side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

JACKSON STATE VS TEXAS SOUTHERN

Jackson State recorded its 15th straight win in dominating fashion, handing Texas Southern a 101-51 loss at Health & P.E. Arena on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Tigers started by building up a 22-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Lady Tigers 55-27 over the final 20 minutes.

Miya Crump was an efficient machine, contributing 23 points on 9-of-10 shooting from the field to lead the way for Jackson State. Crump led what was a complete offensive performance for the Lady Tigers. The team shot 52% from the field while scoring 1.34 points per possession. The transition game was a big factor in their success, 21 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Tatyanna Clayburne scored 15 points, while Maci Quiller added another eight to lead the way for Texas Southern. Collectively, the Lady Tigers were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 25% of field goal attempts and 26% of three-point attempts. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 12% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Jackson State set a season-best in field goal percentage at 52%
• Texas Southern was plagued by five unforced turnovers (7% of possessions)
• The teams combined to hit 16 threes

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Jackson State takes on a confident Prairie View A&M squad at William Nicks Building, where the Lady Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Texas Southern will try to rebound when they take on SWAC foe Alcorn State at Health & P.E. Arena.

ALCORN STATE VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M

Alcorn State snapped Prairie View A&M’s two-game win streak in thrilling fashion on Saturday afternoon, handing it a 55-53 loss at William Nicks Building. The Lady Braves went into halftime with a seven-point lead, which was enough to survive the Lady Panthers’ second half push.

Zy’Nyia White scored 17 points to lead the way for Alcorn State. That performance included an impressive 14 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, Alcorn State shot 6-of-21 from the field in the second half, scoring 0.77 points per possession on average.

Amauri Williams scored 11 points, while Jada Roberson added another nine to lead the way for Prairie View A&M. As a team, the Lady Panthers had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.8 points per possession on 36% shooting from the field. Those numbers include 18-of-46 on two-pointers, 3-of-12 on three-pointers, and 8-of-13 on free throws.

• Alcorn State recorded assists on a season-low 35% of made field goals
• PVAMU’s bench outscored Alcorn’s bench 24 to 7
• The game had four lead changes and five ties

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Alcorn State heads to Health & P.E. Arena to take on Texas Southern, where the Lady Braves will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to turn its home stand around when they meet winning-streak riding Jackson State at William Nicks Building.

ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Arkansas-Pine Bluff were dominant in victory, powering past Mississippi Valley State University by a final score of 78-57 at H.O. Clemmons Arena on Saturday afternoon. The teams played a competitive first half, but the Lady Lions came out hot after the break, outscoring the Devilettes 56-39 over the final 20 minutes.

UAPB’s win was spearheaded by a balanced scoring effort. Coriah Beck led the scoring with 21 points, while Tia Morgan and Maya Peat added 11 points each. The Lady Lions’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 25 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 21 points (66% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.1 points scored per possession on 56% true shooting.

Mississippi Valley State University was led by Lizzie Walker, who scored 14 points while collecting eight boards. Collectively, the Devilettes were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 30% of field goal attempts and 25% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Mississippi Valley State University went 18-of-25.

• 92% of UAPB’s field goals were assisted
• Mississippi Valley State University scored below 60 points for the 17th time this season
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Lady Lions leading the entire game

Both teams have their next games on March 7. Arkansas-Pine Bluff faces Jackson State at the Williams Center, where the Lady Lions will hope their success follows them. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will hit the road once again when they head to Davey L. Whitney Health & Physical Education Complex for a battle with Alcorn State.

MEN’S

HOWARD VS MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE

Howard recorded its third straight win, handing UMES a 70-66 loss at the Hytche Center on Saturday evening. The Bison went into halftime with a 38-30 lead and were able to hold off the Hawks for the final 20 minutes.

Jordan Hairston scored 19 points in an incredibly efficient 6-of-9 shooting performance to lead the way for Howard. The Bison were relentless on the offensive boards, securing 16 extra possessions which they converted into 17 second chance points. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.14 points scored per possession on 55% true shooting.

The Hawks’ offensive efficiency was impressive despite the result. They averaged 1.09 points per possession on 57% true shooting. Kelechi Okworogwo led the way, putting up 20 points to go along with eight boards. Elijah Wilson also contributed, adding another 16 points.

• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 61.1 was a season-low for Howard
• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 61.1 was a season-low for UMES
• The game had zero lead changes and three ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Howard faces Delaware State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, UMES will hope for a better result on the road when they take on Norfolk State at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall.

DELAWARE STATE VS NORFOLK STATE

Delaware State snapped Norfolk State’s four-game win streak on Saturday evening, handing it an 85-71 loss at Memorial Hall. The Hornets went into halftime with a 23-point lead. Despite being outscored 46-37 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Spartans and hold on for the win.

Deywilk Tavarez was an efficient machine, contributing 31 points on 8-of-11 shooting from the field to lead the way for Delaware State. As a whole, the Hornets were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.14 points per possession on 54% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 10-of-22 attempts from deep.

Norfolk State was led by Allen Betrand, who put up 15 points. The Spartans shot 26-of-59 (44%) from the field in this one, including 7-of-26 (27%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.96 points per possession on 53% true shooting.

• Delaware State recorded assists on a season-high 80% of made field goals
• Norfolk’s bench outscored Del State’s bench 38 to 11
• The teams combined to hit 17 threes

Each team has its next game on March 4. Delaware State heads to Burr Gymnasium to take on Howard, where the Hornets will hope their success follows them. Meanwhile, Norfolk State will be thankful to return home when they face struggling UMES at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall.

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL VS COPPIN STATE

North Carolina Central recorded its third straight win in dominating fashion, handing Coppin State an 83-58 loss at Physical Education Complex on Saturday evening. The Eagles started by building up a 14-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Eagles 45-34 over the final 20 minutes.

Keishon Porter led the way for North Carolina Central, putting up a game-high 21 points. Porter was not the sole contributor though. The Eagles’ offense delivered from many fronts, pouring in 1.33 points per possession on 52% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 10-of-19 attempts from deep.

Malik Battle scored 16 points, while Justin Winston added another 13 to lead the way for Coppin State As a team, the Eagles had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.95 points per possession on 37% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 24% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• North Carolina Central recorded assists on a season-high 79% of made field goals
• Coppin State recorded assists on 58% of attempted field goals
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Eagles leading the entire game

Both teams take the floor again on March 4. North Carolina Central takes on struggling Morgan State at Hill Field House, where the Eagles will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Coppin St. will try to turn its home stand around when they meet winning-streak riding South Carolina State at Physical Education Complex.

BETHUNE-COOKMAN VS SOUTHERN

Bethune-Cookman recorded its third straight win in dramatic fashion on Saturday afternoon at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, defeating Southern 67-61. The Wildcats were down by two at the break and trailed by as many as 11 points in the second half, but they were still able to pull off the comeback.

Dhashon Dyson scored 23 points to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. Zion Harmon was pivotal as well, shooting 4-of-5 in the second half for 17 points to power the Wildcats forward after the break. As a team, Bethune-Cookman shot 9-of-22 from the field in the second half, scoring 1.11 points per possession on average.

Southern was led by Derrick Tezeno, who recorded 12 points and seven boards. The Jags shot 22-of-49 from the field and 3-of-15 from behind the arc. That contributed to their game average of 0.89 points per possession on 50% true shooting.

• Bethune-Cookman outran Southern, outscoring them in transition 23 to 5
• Southern outscored Bethune-Cookman 32 to 14 in the paint
• The attendance of the game at the F.G. Clark Activity Center was 4,289

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Bethune-Cookman heads to the FCH Assembly Center to take on Grambling State, where the Wildcats will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Southern will try to turn its home stand around when they host Florida A&M at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

ALABAMA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Alabama A&M broke its streak of two consecutive losses, defeating Alabama State in a 58-53 thriller on Saturday evening at the Event Center. The Hornets went into halftime with a one-point lead, but the Bulldogs would not go down without a fight. The sides exchanged the lead five times over the final 20 minutes, with Alabama A&M able to do just enough to come out on top.

Cameron Tucker scored 12 points to lead the way for Alabama A&M. As a whole, the Bulldogs were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.91 points per possession on 37% shooting from the field. The transition game was a bright spot though, as 11 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Isaiah Range recorded 17 points and five rebounds, and Antonio “TJ” Madlock contributed another 14 points to pace Alabama State. Collectively, the Hornets were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 27% of field goal attempts and 37% of three-point attempts. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 19% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 64.5 was a season-low for Alabama A&M
• Alabama State hit a new season-high 10 threes
• 6,389 cheering fans showed up to the Event Center in attendance

Both sides have until March 7 to rest up and practice. Alabama A&M takes on conference rival Grambling State at the Event Center, where the Bulldogs will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Alabama State will be thankful to return home when they meet winning-streak riding Grambling State at Dunn-Oliver Acadome.

GRAMBLING STATE VS FLORIDA A&M

Grambling State recorded its fourth straight win, handing Florida A&M a 75-68 loss at the FCH Assembly Center on Saturday evening. The Tigers went into halftime with a 42-32 lead and were able to hold off the Rattlers for the final 20 minutes.

Antwan Burnett and Jourdan Smith led the scoring for Grambling State, each contributing 18 points. As a whole, the Tigers were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.12 points per possession on 55% shooting from the field. They put a particular emphasis on generating easy looks close to the hoop, shooting 26-of-40 on two-pointers, including 20-of-29 in the paint.

Offense was not the issue for the Rattlers. They scored their 68 points on 45% shooting from the field. Keith Lamar led the way, putting up 24 points to go along with five boards. Shannon Grant also contributed, adding another 14 points.

• Grambling State recorded a new season-low one steal
• Florida A&M was plagued by nine unforced turnovers (14% of possessions)
• The game had four lead changes and three ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Grambling State takes on Bethune-Cookman at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Tigers will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Florida A&M will hit the road once again when they face struggling Southern at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

TEXAS SOUTHERN VS JACKSON STATE

Texas Southern recorded its fourth straight win, handing Jackson State an 80-70 loss in a back-and-forth contest at Health & Physical Education Arena on Saturday evening. The Tigers went into halftime with a one-point lead, but the Tigers would not go down without a fight. The sides exchanged the lead 13 times over the final 20 minutes, with Texas Southern able to do just enough to come out on top.

PJ Henry scored 20 points to lead the way for Texas Southern. Henry was dangerous from three-point land, connecting on 4-of-8 attempts. Henry was not the sole contributor though. The Tigers’ offense delivered from many fronts, pouring in 1.13 points per possession on 48% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 11-of-28 attempts from deep.

The Tigers’ offensive efficiency was impressive despite the result. They averaged 1.05 points per possession on 56% true shooting. Ken Evans led the way, putting up 19 points to go along with six boards. Rebounding was a different story entirely, as Jackson State was outrebounded 38-30 overall, and only 18% of the team’s missed shots resulted in second chances.

• Texas Southern outhustled Jackson State, outscoring them 14 to 4 on second chance points
• Jackson State recorded assists on 23% of attempted field goals
• The teams combined to hit 18 threes

Both teams take the floor again on March 4. Texas Southern faces Alcorn State at Health & Physical Education Arena, where the Tigers will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Jackson State will try to turn things around when they take on SWAC foe Prairie View A&M at William J. Nicks Building.

ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Arkansas-Pine Bluff defeated SWAC rival Mississippi Valley State University by a score of 78-69 on Saturday evening. The Golden Lions went into the break leading by one point, and then outscored the Delta Devils 44-36 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Rashad Williams scored 21 points to lead the way for Arkansas-Pine Bluff. That performance included an impressive 16 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 52% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.25 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 41% shooting and 1.04 points per possession in the first half.

Mississippi Valley State University was led by Rayquan Brown, who recorded 39 points and eight boards. The Delta Devils shot 26-of-62 (42%) from the field in this one, including 10-of-32 (31%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.94 points per possession on 52% true shooting.

• Arkansas-Pine Bluff recorded assists on a season-high 100% of made field goals
• Mississippi Valley State University hit a new season-high 10 threes
• The teams combined to hit 24 threes

Both teams have their next games on March 7. Arkansas-Pine Bluff takes on Jackson State at the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center, where the Golden Lions will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will hit the road once again when they take on Alcorn State at Davey L. Whitney Health & Physical Education Complex.

ALCORN STATE VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M

Alcorn State handed Prairie View A&M its fifth consecutive loss in a 73-65 contest at William J. Nicks Building on Saturday evening. The Panthers went into halftime with a 33-30 lead, but were unable to hang on, as they were outscored by 11 points in the second half.

Jeremiah Gambrell scored 21 points to lead the way for Alcorn State. Dekedran Thorn was pivotal as well, shooting 3-of-4 in the second half for 10 points to power the Braves forward after the break. Alcorn State’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 65% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.24 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 37% shooting and 0.89 points per possession in the first half.

Prairie View A&M was led by Brian Myles, who recorded 22 points and 13 boards. As a team, the Panthers shot 43% (23-of-54) from the field and 31% (4-of-13) from distance. That netted out to an average of 0.98 points per possession.

• Alcorn’s bench outscored PVAMU’s bench 24 to 1
• Prairie View A&M recorded a new season-high six blocks
• One lead change and zero ties were recorded in the game

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Alcorn State takes on a confident Texas Southern squad at Health & Physical Education Arena, where the Braves will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to turn its home stand around when they take on Jackson State at William J. Nicks Building.

NORTH CAROLINA A&T VS CAMPBELL

North Carolina A&T loss a nail-biter to Campbell on Saturday evening in a hard-fought 64-62 contest. The score was level after 20 minutes of play in a dynamic game that saw 14 different lead changes. The Fighting Camels had an edge in the second half, though, outscoring the Aggies 31-29.

Camian Shell scored 22 points while dishing out six assists to lead the way for North Carolina A&T. The Aggies shot 24-of-62 (39%) from the field in this one, including 9-of-27 (33%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 0.96 points per possession.

Jasin Sinani and Anthony Dell’Orso led the scoring for Campbell, each contributing 14 points. As a team, the Fighting Camels found a groove shooting from distance. They converted 11-of-30 three-pointers, with those 11 made threes establishing a new one-game season best. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.01 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

• Campbell recorded assists on a season-high 79% of made field goals
• North Carolina A&T was plagued by five unforced turnovers (8% of possessions)
• The teams combined to hit 20 threes

Campbell earned a good win against a tough CAA rival. The Fighting Camels’ next matchup is a March 9 game against Monmouth at D.C. Entertainment and Sports Arena. NC A&T’s recent struggles continued with its loss this evening. The Aggies’ next contest is a March 8 neutral court matchup with William & Mary in Washington.

HAMPTON VS WILLIAM & MARY

Hampton falls to William & Mary in an 85-73 contest on Saturday afternoon at Kaplan Arena. The Tribe got out to a 43-35 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Pirates again in the second half to come away with the victory.

The Pirates played well offensively in this one. They averaged 1.05 points per possession on 43% shooting from the field. Ja’Von Benson led the way, putting up 19 points to go along with nine boards. Despite shooting well overall, Hampton dug themselves an early hole. The team went down as much as 14 in the first half, and were ultimately unable to catch back up and push past William & Mary.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for William & Mary. Trey Moss led the scoring with 20 points. Gabe Dorsey added 19, while Sean Houpt also contributed 16 points. As a team, the Tribe went 29-of-64 from the field, while converting 12-of-18 at the free throw line. They relied on their deep shots, hitting 15-of-35 three-point attempts, including 14-of-33 from above the break.

• 69% of William & Mary’s field goals were assisted
• HU’s bench outscored William & Mary’s bench 41 to 10
• The teams combined to hit 21 threes

Both sides have until March 8 to rest up and practice. William & Mary takes on struggling North Carolina A&T at D.C. Entertainment and Sports Arena, where the Tribe will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Hampton will try to rebound when they take on Elon at D.C. Entertainment and Sports Arena.

TENNESSEE STATE VS UT MARTIN

Tennessee State loses to UT Martin in dramatic fashion on Saturday afternoon at the Kathleen and Tom Elam Center, defeating the Tigers 96-87. The Skyhawks trailed by as many as 12 points in the second half but made an improbable comeback to win the game.

Offense was not the issue for the Tigers. They scored their 87 points on 50% shooting from the field. Marcus Fitzgerald Jr. led the way, putting up 18 points and five assists. EJ Bellinger also contributed, adding another 15 points.

Jordan Sears scored 34 points to lead the way for UT Martin. That performance included an impressive 29 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, UT Martin shot 27-of-63 from the field and 32-of-34 from the line to put up an average of 1.29 points per possession.

• UT Martin outran Tennessee State, outscoring them in transition 31 to 17
• Tennessee State outscored UT Martin 34 to 20 in the paint
• The teams combined to hit 19 threes

UT Martin earned a good win against a tough OVC rival. The Skyhawks will face their next opponent, TBA, at the Ford Center on March 8. This afternoon’s defeat was another tough result for Tennessee State. It had lost in its last outing against Little Rock and was looking to rebound. The Tigers will look for redemption in their next game against Southern Ind., which has been struggling recently. That one is on March 6 at the Ford Center.

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WOMEN’S

MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE VS NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL

UMES took down North Carolina Central, one of the MEAC’s top teams, by a score of 71-64 on Saturday afternoon. The Hawks went into halftime with a 45-35 lead and were able to hold off the Eagles for the final 20 minutes.

Mya Thomas scored a game-high 15 points to lead the way for UMES. As a whole, the Hawks were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.96 points per possession on 38% shooting from the field. Their cold shooting did not stop them from attacking, though. They drew 19 fouls on the defense, which ultimately led to 19 points on 76% shooting from the free throw line.

Tippy Robertson put up 13 points to lead North Carolina Central. The Eagles shot 23-of-55 from the field and 3-of-15 from behind the arc. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. North Carolina Central only mustered 0.86 points per possession on 47% true shooting.

• UMES committed 12 unforced turnovers (16% of possessions)
• North Carolina Central recorded assists on 57% of attempted field goals
• Mahogany Lester led all game players in plus-minus with a +18

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on Feb. 26. UMES takes on South Carolina State at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center, where the Hawks will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, North Carolina Central will try to turn things around when they take on MEAC foe Delaware State at McDougald-McLendon Arena.

HOWARD VS MORGAN STATE

Howard claimed a commanding 70-47 victory over Morgan State on Saturday afternoon. The Bison started by building up a 10-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Lady Bears 35-22 over the final 20 minutes.

Tyana Walker scored 21 points to lead the way for Howard. Walker was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 5-of-12 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Bison’s success, as 18 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.07 points scored per possession on 53% true shooting.

Morgan’s offense was led by Joelle Johnson, who scored 20 points. As a team, the Lady Bears shot 41% (19-of-46) from the field and 14% (1-of-7) from distance. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.7 points per possession on 45% true shooting.

• HU’s bench outscored Morgan’s bench 29 to 12
• Morgan State scored below 50 points for the 10th time this season
• One lead change and one tie were recorded in the game

Both teams take the floor again on Feb. 26. Howard takes on Coppin State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Morgan State will try to rebound when they host Norfolk State at Hill Field House.

ALABAMA A&M VS BETHUNE-COOKMAN

Alabama A&M handed Bethune-Cookman its fourth consecutive loss in a 63-58 contest at Moore Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon. The Bulldogs went into halftime with a 26-19 lead and were able to hold off the Wildcats for the final 20 minutes.

Amiah Simmons led the way for Alabama A&M, putting up a game-high 26 points. The Bulldogs’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating their 63 points on 35% shooting from the field. Their shooting woes were alleviated by a relentless pursuit on the boards. Their 19 offensive rebounds led to 15 big second chance points.

Chanel Wilson scored 14 points, while Kayla Clark added another 12 to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. As a team, the Wildcats had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.78 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. It was a forgettable game from three-point range as the team collectively shot 3-of-16 from deep.

• 55% of AAMU’s field goals were assisted
• Bethune-Cookman outscored Alabama A&M 32 to 20 in the paint
• Amiah Simmons led all game players in plus-minus with a +9

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Alabama A&M meets Florida A&M at the Al Lawson Center, where the Bulldogs will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Bethune-Cookman will try to rebound when they face struggling Alabama State at Moore Gymnasium.

FLORIDA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Florida A&M ended its two-game losing skid, defeating Alabama State in a 70-66 contest on Saturday afternoon at the Al Lawson Center. The Lady Rattlers went into halftime with a 38-32 lead and were able to hold off the Lady Hornets for the final 20 minutes.

Sydney Hendrix secured their first 20-point scoring game of the season, putting up 22 points to lead Florida A&M. The Lady Rattlers’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 15 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 16 points (76% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.97 points scored per possession on 49% true shooting.

Alabama State was led by Cordasia Harris, who recorded 20 points and nine boards. The Lady Hornets shot 22-of-56 from the field and 3-of-12 from behind the arc. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.9 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

• Florida A&M recorded a new season-high five blocks
• Alabama State scored a season-high 32 first half points
• The game had three lead changes and four ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on Feb. 26. Florida A&M welcomes Alabama A&M to the Al Lawson Center, where the Lady Rattlers will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to rebound when they take on SWAC foe Bethune-Cookman at Moore Gymnasium.

GRAMBLING STATE VS SOUTHERN

Grambling State earned an impressive SWAC win on Saturday afternoon, taking down Southern by a score of 59-57. The Lady Tigers went into halftime trailing 33-27 but outscored the Lady Jaguars by eight points in the second half to come back and win.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for Grambling State. Zayla Tinner led the scoring with 13 points. Jordyn Carter added 12, while Kahia Warmsley also contributed 10 points. The Lady Tigers’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 21 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 14 points (58% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.88 points scored per possession on 52% true shooting.

Aleighyah Fontenot scored nine points, while Taylor Williams added another nine to lead the way for Southern. Collectively, the Lady Jaguars were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 37% of field goal attempts and 45% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Southern went 10-of-15.

• Grambling State committed 11 unforced turnovers (16% of possessions)
• SU’s bench outscored GSU’s bench 26 to 16
• 4,689 cheering fans showed up to the F.G. Clark Activity Center in attendance

Both teams have their next games on March 2. Grambling State takes on Florida A&M at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Lady Tigers will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Southern will try to rebound when they take on Bethune-Cookman at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

PRAIRIE VIEW A&M VS ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF

Prairie View A&M ended its five-game losing skid, defeating Arkansas-Pine Bluff in a 66-57 contest on Saturday afternoon at H.O. Clemmons Arena. The Lady Panthers got out to a 32-24 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Lady Lions again in the second half to come away with the victory.

Kayla Smith scored 20 points in an incredibly efficient 8-of-11 shooting performance to lead the way for Prairie View A&M. As a team, the Lady Panthers shot 52% from the field, 40% from behind the arc, and 45% from the free throw line. They were particularly effective at the rim, converting on 15-of-17 close range field goal attempts.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff was led by Maya Peat, who recorded 14 points and seven boards. As a team, the Lady Lions shot 39% (19-of-49) from the field and 25% (3-of-12) from distance. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Arkansas-Pine Bluff only mustered 0.85 points per possession on 46% true shooting.

• Prairie View A&M recorded assists on a season-high 72% of made field goals
• Arkansas-Pine Bluff was plagued by five unforced turnovers (7% of possessions)
• Eight lead changes and six ties were recorded in the game

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. Prairie View A&M takes on Mississippi Valley State University at Harrison HPER Complex, where the Lady Panthers will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Arkansas-Pine Bluff will try to turn things around when they face a Texas Southern team also coming off a loss. They will meet at H.O. Clemmons Arena.

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE VS TEXAS SOUTHERN

Mississippi Valley State University handed Texas Southern its third consecutive loss in a 71-65 contest at Harrison HPER Complex on Saturday evening. The Devilettes went into halftime with a 37-26 lead and were able to hold off the Lady Tigers for the final 20 minutes.

Sh’Diamond McKnight was electric in this one, scoring 31 points to lead the way for Mississippi Valley State University. Despite McKnight’s performance, the team collectively struggled shooting the ball. They shot 36% from the field while scoring just 0.86 points per possession. Their shooting woes were alleviated by a relentless pursuit on the boards. Their 19 offensive rebounds led to 17 big second chance points.

Jaida Belton recorded 14 points and 12 rebounds to lead the way for Texas Southern. As a team, the Lady Tigers shot 39% (24-of-61) from the field and 24% (4-of-17) from distance. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Texas Southern only mustered 0.78 points per possession on 45% true shooting.

• MVSU’s defense buoyed their offense, scoring 28 points off of 25 Texas Southern turnovers
• Texas Southern recorded assists on 29% of attempted field goals
• The Devilettes led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Mississippi Valley State University faces Prairie View A&M at Harrison HPER Complex, where the Devilettes will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Texas Southern will try to turn things around when they take on SWAC foe Arkansas-Pine Bluff at H.O. Clemmons Arena.

TENNESSEE STATE VS SIU EDWARDSVILLE

Tennessee State handed SIUE its third consecutive loss in a 75-65 contest at Gentry Center Complex on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Tigers went into the break leading by two points, and then outscored the Cougars 38-30 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Sanaa’ St. Andre scored 24 points while grabbing a season-high six boards to lead the way for Tennessee State. The Lady Tigers put a particular emphasis on generating easy looks close to the hoop, shooting 26-of-55 on two-pointers, including 40 points scored in the paint. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.98 points scored per possession on 50% true shooting.

Sofie Lowis recorded 14 points and five rebounds to lead the way for SIUE. As a team, the Cougars shot 38% (23-of-60) from the field and 39% (9-of-23) from distance. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. SIUE only mustered 0.84 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

• Tennessee State recorded a new season-high six blocks
• SIUE collected 11 steals, a season-best
• Lyric Cole led all game players in plus-minus with a +14

Tennessee State earned a good win against a tough OVC rival. The Lady Tigers will head to Little Rock for their next contest, a Feb. 29 matchup with Little Rock. SIUE’s recent struggles continued with its loss this afternoon. A Feb. 27 matchup with conference rival Eastern Ill. in Charleston is the Cougars’ next shot at a win.

MEN’S

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL VS MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE

North Carolina Central broke its streak of three consecutive losses, defeating UMES in an 88-55 rout on Saturday evening at McDougald-McLendon Arena. The Eagles started fast, accumulated a 14-point lead into the break. They didn’t let up in the second half either, increasing their lead to as large as 35 points.

Keishon Porter scored 22 points in an incredibly efficient 8-of-12 shooting performance to lead the way for North Carolina Central. The transition game was a big factor in the Eagles’ success, as 17 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.26 points scored per possession on 54% true shooting.

Troy Hupstead recorded 16 points and 10 rebounds, and Devon Ellis contributed another 14 points to pace UMES. Collectively, the Hawks were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 36% of field goal attempts and 14% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, UMES went 12-of-14.

• North Carolina Central outran UMES, outscoring them in transition 17 to 6
• UMES scored below 60 points for the eighth time this season
• The Eagles led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. North Carolina Central takes on conference rival Delaware State at McDougald-McLendon Arena, where the Eagles will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, UMES will try to rebound when they head to the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center for a battle with South Carolina State.

NORFOLK STATE VS COPPIN STATE

Norfolk State recorded its third straight win, handing Coppin State a 68-66 loss at Physical Education Complex on Saturday evening. The Spartans’ lead was as large as 16 points in the first half, but they weren’t able to extend it any further. After a rough start, the Eagles played a competitive second half.

Tyrese Jenkins scored 21 points to lead the way for Norfolk State. Jenkins was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 7-of-10 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Spartans’ success, as 16 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.03 points scored per possession on 57% true shooting.

Malik Battle put up 27 points to lead Coppin State. The Eagles shot 16-of-49 (33%) from the field in this one, including 11-of-29 (38%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 1.02 points per possession.

• Norfolk State recorded assists on a season-high 65% of made field goals
• Coppin State hit a new season-high 11 threes
• The teams combined to hit 20 threes

Both teams take the floor again on Feb. 26. Norfolk State takes on conference rival Morgan State at Hill Field House, where the Spartans will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Coppin State will try to turn things around when they meet a Howard side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at Burr Gymnasium.

HOWARD VS MORGAN STATE

Howard defeated Morgan State by a score of 78-72 at Burr Gymnasium on Saturday evening. The Bison went into halftime trailing 37-35 but outscored the Bears by eight points in the second half to come back and win.

Shy Odom, Seth Towns, and Bryce Harris led the way for Howard, contributing 16, 15, and 12 points, respectively. The Bison’s ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 22 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 24 points (86% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.02 points scored per possession on 59% true shooting.

Morgan State was led by Kamron Hobbs, who put up 15 points. The Bears shot 26-of-57 (46%) from the field in this one, including 4-of-11 (36%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.94 points per possession on 54% true shooting.

• HU’s bench outscored Morgan’s bench 23 to 13
• Morgan State outscored Howard 26 to 16 on points off turnovers
• 2,064 cheering fans showed up to Burr Gymnasium in attendance

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. Howard takes on conference rival Coppin State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Morgan State will be thankful to return home when they take on Norfolk State at Hill Field House.

FLORIDA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Florida A&M broke its streak of six consecutive losses, defeating Alabama State in a 73-65 thriller on Saturday evening at the Al Lawson Center. The Hornets went into halftime with a six-point lead, but the Rattlers would not go down without a fight. The sides exchanged the lead five times over the final 20 minutes, with Florida A&M able to do just enough to come out on top.

Keith Lamar scored 22 points to lead the way for Florida A&M. That performance included an impressive 18 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. Florida A&M’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 60% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.3 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 29% shooting and 0.71 points per possession in the first half.

Alabama State was led by Antonio “TJ” Madlock, who scored 20 points while collecting eight boards. As a team, the Hornets had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.93 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. It was a forgettable game from three-point range as the team collectively shot 3-of-20 from deep.

• Florida A&M recorded a new season-high six blocks
• Alabama State outscored Florida A&M 15 to 5 on second chance points
• The game had six lead changes and five ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. Florida A&M takes on conference rival Alabama A&M at the Al Lawson Center, where the Rattlers will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to rebound when they take on Bethune-Cookman at Moore Gymnasium.

BETHUNE-COOKMAN VS ALABAMA A&M

Bethune-Cookman snapped Alabama A&M’s three-game win streak in thrilling fashion on Saturday evening, handing it a 63-61 loss at Moore Gymnasium. The Wildcats went into halftime with an eight-point lead, which was enough to survive the Bulldogs’ second half push.

Zion Harmon scored 15 points to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. The Wildcats’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating their 63 points on 35% shooting from the field. However, they did maximize their opportunities, turning the ball over just 11 times (14% of possessions).

Jayland Randall led the way for Alabama A&M, scoring 17 points. The Bulldogs shot 21-of-42 (50%) from the field in this one, including 4-of-9 (44%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 0.93 points per possession.

• 53% of BCU’s field goals were assisted
• Alabama A&M recorded assists on a season-high 90% of made field goals
• Zion Harmon recorded a game-high +7 plus-minus

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Bethune-Cookman takes on conference rival Alabama State at Moore Gymnasium, where the Wildcats will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Alabama A&M will try to rebound when they meet a Florida A&M side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at the Al Lawson Center

ALCORN STATE VS JACKSON STATE

Alcorn State defeated Jackson State on Saturday afternoon in a dynamic 87-73 overtime affair. Alcorn State went into halftime with a 36-34 lead, but Jackson State fought back to tie things up at the end of regulation. The Tigers could not finish the job though, as they were outscored 22-8 in overtime.

Byron Joshua scored 21 points to lead the way for Alcorn State. That performance included an impressive 10 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, Alcorn State shot 30-of-59 from the field and 20-of-23 from the line to put up an average of 1.23 points per possession.

Keionte Cornelius put up 19 points to lead Jackson State. The Tigers shot 28-of-57 from the field and 8-of-21 from behind the arc. That netted out to an average of 0.97 points per possession.

• Alcorn State recorded a new season-high five blocks
• Jackson State struggled on the boards with just 23 total rebounds, a season-worst
• Jeremiah Kendall recorded a game-high +18 plus-minus

Both teams take the floor again on March 2. Alcorn State meets Prairie View A&M at William J. Nicks Building, where the Braves will hope their success follows them. Meanwhile, Jackson State will try to rebound when they head to Health & Physical Education Arena for a battle with Texas Southern.

TEXAS SOUTHERN VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Texas Southern claimed a commanding 73-52 victory over Mississippi Valley State University on Saturday evening. The Tigers started fast, accumulated a 12-point lead into the break. They didn’t let up in the second half either, increasing their lead to as large as 23 points.

PJ Henry scored 16 points to lead the way for Texas Southern. Henry was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 4-of-6 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Tigers’ success, as 17 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.05 points scored per possession on 60% true shooting.

Danny Washington put up 17 points to lead Mississippi Valley State University. The Delta Devils shot 17-of-45 (38%) from the field in this one, including 3-of-15 (20%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Mississippi Valley State University only mustered 0.78 points per possession on 46% true shooting.

• Texas Southern recorded a new season-high 12 steals
• Mississippi Valley State University was plagued by eight unforced turnovers (12% of possessions)
• Grayson Carter led all game players in plus-minus with a +19

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Texas Southern takes on conference rival Arkansas-Pine Bluff at H.O. Clemmons Arena, where the Tigers will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will try to turn its home stand around when they face struggling Prairie View A&M at Harrison HPER Complex.

GRAMBLING STATE VS SOUTHERN

Grambling State recorded its third straight win in dramatic fashion on Saturday evening at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, defeating Southern 63-57. The Tigers trailed by as many as 14 points in the second half but made an improbable comeback to win the game.

Terrence Lewis scored 16 points to lead the way for Grambling State. Tra’Michael Moton was pivotal as well, shooting 4-of-9 in the second half for 10 points to power the Tigers forward after the break. Grambling State’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 54% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.31 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 43% shooting and 0.73 points per possession in the first half.

Brandon Davis led the way for Southern, scoring 12 points. The Jags shot 21-of-51 (41%) from the field in this one, including 8-of-21 (38%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Southern only mustered 0.94 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

• Grambling State recorded assists on a season-high 73% of made field goals
• Southern recorded a new season-low three steals
• 7,198 cheering fans showed up to the F.G. Clark Activity Center in attendance

Both teams take the floor again on March 2. Grambling State faces Florida A&M at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Tigers will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Southern will try to turn its home stand around when they take on Bethune-Cookman at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M

Arkansas-Pine Bluff handed Prairie View A&M its third consecutive loss in a 72-59 contest at H.O. Clemmons Arena on Saturday evening. The Golden Lions went into the break leading by 12 points, and then outscored the Panthers 33-32 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Ismael Plet, Rashad Williams, and Lonnell Martin led the way for Arkansas-Pine Bluff, contributing 15, 13, and 12 points, respectively. The Golden Lions’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 20 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 18 points (86% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.97 points scored per possession on 58% true shooting.

Charles Lane Jr. led the way for Prairie View A&M, scoring 24 points. The Panthers shot 22-of-57 (39%) from the field in this one, including 5-of-23 (22%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Prairie View A&M only mustered 0.84 points per possession on 46% true shooting.

• Arkansas-Pine Bluff outscored Prairie View A&M in the paint 28 to 18
• Prairie View A&M scored below 60 points for the sixth time this season
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Golden Lions leading the entire game

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on Feb. 26. Arkansas-Pine Bluff welcomes Texas Southern to H.O. Clemmons Arena, where the Golden Lions will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to rebound when they face a Mississippi Valley State University team also coming off a loss. They will meet at Harrison HPER Complex.

HAMPTON VS NORTHEASTERN

Hampton’s two-game win streak was snapped by Northeastern on Saturday afternoon, losing 70-62 loss at Matthews Arena. The Huskies went into halftime with an 18-point lead. Despite being outscored 40-30 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Pirates and hold on for the win.

Tedrick Wilcox Jr. scored 19 points, while Ja’Von Benson added another 18 to lead the way for Hampton. Collectively, the Pirates were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 32% of field goal attempts and 24% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Hampton went 15-of-18.

Chris Doherty scored 21 points in an incredibly efficient 8-of-12 shooting performance to lead the way for Northeastern. As a team, the Huskies shot 46% from the field, 22% from behind the arc, and 89% from the free throw line. They were particularly effective at the rim, converting on 16-of-22 close range field goal attempts.

• Northeastern outscored Hampton in the paint 36 to 24
• Hampton started slow, scoring a season-low 22 first half points
• The game had two lead changes and two ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 29. Northeastern meets Delaware at the Bob Carpenter Center, where the Huskies will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Hampton will try to rebound when they take on CAA foe Monmouth at the Convocation Center.

NORTH CAROLINA A&T VS MONMOUTH

North Carolina A&T falls to Monmouth 83-67 on Saturday afternoon. It was even more one-sided than the score line indicates, as the Hawks led by as many as 22 points.

North Carolina A&T was led by Landon Glasper, who scored 27 points while collecting five boards. Collectively, the Aggies were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 28% of field goal attempts and 35% of three-point attempts. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 18% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

Xander Rice and Klemen Vuga led the scoring for Monmouth, each contributing 12 points. The transition game was a big factor in the Hawks’ success, as 24 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.18 points scored per possession on 54% true shooting.

• Monmouth scored a season-high 45 points off the bench
• North Carolina A&T was plagued by four unforced turnovers (6% of possessions)
• The teams combined to hit 16 threes

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 29. Monmouth takes on conference rival Hampton at the Convocation Center, where the Hawks will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, North Carolina A&T will be thankful to return home when they take on Towson at the Ellis Corbett Sports Center.

TENNESSEE STATE VS SIU EDWARDSVILLE

Tennessee State snapped SIUE’s three-game win streak on Saturday afternoon, handing it a 76-71 loss at Gentry Center Complex. The Tigers went into halftime with an 11-point lead. Despite being outscored 46-40 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Cougars and hold on for the win.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for Tennessee State. Michael Shanks led the scoring with 16 points. Marcus Fitzgerald Jr. added 15, while Kinyon Hodges also contributed 11 points. The Tigers made a concerted effort to absorb contact and convert it into points. They drew 25 fouls on the defense, which led to a season-high 29 points on 74% shooting from the charity stripe. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.99 points scored per possession on 60% true shooting.

SIUE was led by Damarco Minor, who scored 31 points while collecting 12 boards. As a team, the Cougars had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.92 points per possession on 36% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 37% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Tennessee State outran SIUE, outscoring them in transition 29 to 19
• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 76.7 was a season-high for SIUE
• Kinyon Hodges recorded a game-high +9 plus-minus

Tennessee State earned a good win against a tough OVC rival. The Tigers’ next test is a matchup with Little Rock, which also won its last game, at the Jack Stephens Center on Feb. 29. This loss was a rare slip-up for SIUE, which had been playing well recently. The Cougars’ next game is against an Eastern Ill. side that is also recovering from a recent loss. They will square off on Feb. 27 at Lantz Arena.

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WOMEN’S

ARKANSAS PINE-BLUFF VS ALCORN STATE

Arkansas Pine-Bluff recorded its fifth straight win in dominating fashion, handing Alcorn State an 80-57 loss at H.O. Clemmons Arena on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Lions started by building up a 16-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Lady Braves 37-30 over the final 20 minutes.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for Arkansas Pine-Bluff. Zaay Green led the scoring with 18 points. Maya Peat added 12, while Coriah Beck also contributed 11 points. The transition game was a big factor in the Lady Lions’ success, as 23 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.0 points scored per possession on 50% true shooting.

Nakia Cheatham recorded 15 points and eight rebounds to lead the way for Alcorn State. The Lady Braves shot 22-of-55 from the field and 2-of-15 from behind the arc. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Alcorn State only mustered 0.7 points per possession on 45% true shooting.

• Arkansas Pine-Bluff outran Alcorn State, outscoring them in transition 23 to 9
• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 80.6 was a season-high for Alcorn State
• 2,306 cheering fans showed up to H.O. Clemmons Arena in attendance

Both teams take the floor again on Feb. 12. Arkansas Pine-Bluff takes on Jackson State at H.O. Clemmons Arena, where the Lady Lions will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Alcorn State will hit the road once again when they head to Harrison HPER Complex for a battle with Mississippi Valley State University.

BETHUNE-COOKMAN VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M

Bethune-Cookman ended its two-game losing skid, defeating Prairie View A&M in a 74-61 contest on Saturday afternoon at Moore Gymnasium. The Wildcats got out to a 38-37 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Lady Panthers again in the second half to come away with the victory.

Kayla White led the way for Bethune-Cookman, putting up a season-high 19 points. As a whole, the Wildcats were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.12 points per possession on 57% shooting from the field. The transition game was a big factor in their success, 22 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Ryann Payne led the way for Prairie View A&M, scoring 18 points. The Lady Panthers shot 24-of-53 (45%) from the field in this one, including 3-of-11 (27%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 0.91 points per possession.

• Bethune-Cookman hit one three in the game, a new season-low
• Prairie View A&M recorded assists on 54% of attempted field goals
• The game had eight lead changes and six ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 12. Bethune-Cookman meets Texas Southern at Moore Gymnasium, where the Wildcats will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to rebound when they take on SWAC foe Florida A&M at the Al Lawson Center.

FLORIDA A&M VS TEXAS SOUTHERN

Florida A&M handed Texas Southern its third consecutive loss in a 71-57 contest at the Al Lawson Center on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Rattlers went into the break leading by seven points, and then outscored the Lady Tigers 40-33 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Ahriahna Grizzle scored 31 points to lead the way for Florida A&M. Grizzle was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 4-of-7 attempts. The Lady Rattlers put a particular emphasis on generating easy looks close to the hoop, shooting 24-of-47 on two-pointers, including 40 points scored in the paint. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.04 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

Texas Southern was led by Jordyn Turner, who recorded 25 points and 10 boards. The Lady Tigers shot 23-of-60 (38%) from the field in this one, including 6-of-18 (33%) from the three-point line. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.85 points per possession on 45% true shooting.

• The 14-point differential was FAMU’s largest margin of victory this season
• Texas Southern scored zero points off the bench, a season-worst
• Peryonna Sylvester led all game players in plus-minus with a +27

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on Feb. 12. Florida A&M meets Prairie View A&M at the Al Lawson Center, where the Lady Rattlers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Texas Southern will hit the road once again when they head to Moore Gymnasium for a battle with Bethune-Cookman.

TENNESSEE STATE VS SOUTHEAST MISSOURI STATE

Tennessee State falls to Southeast Missouri State in a 48-47 thriller on Saturday afternoon at the Show Me Center. The Redhawks went into halftime with a four-point lead, which was enough to survive the Lady Tigers’ second half push.

Indiya Bowen and Alecia Doyle led the scoring for Southeast Missouri State, each contributing 18 points. As a whole, the Redhawks were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.7 points per possession on 30% shooting from the field. That offensive output included 3-of-20 shooting from beyond the arc and 13-of-15 shooting on free throws.

Zyion Shannon scored 17 points, while Eboni Williams added another eight to lead the way for Tennessee State. Collectively, the Lady Tigers were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 29% of field goal attempts and 33% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Tennessee State went 11-of-16.

• Southeast Missouri State scored a season-low zero points off the bench
• Tennessee State’s bench outscored Southeast Missouri State’s bench 12 to 0
• The game had eight lead changes and nine ties

Southeast Missouri State finally put an end to its recent struggles. The Redhawks will head to Charleston, Ill for their next contest, a Feb. 15 matchup with Eastern Illinois. Tennessee State’s record dropped to 7-15 with the loss. The Lady Tigers will take on Tennessee Tech, which is coming off a win, at the Eblen Center on Feb. 13.

GRAMBLING STATE VS ALABAMA STATE

Grambling State blew past Alabama State in a 65-48 rout on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Tigers started strong, and then left nothing to chance. They went into halftime with a 12-point lead and then put a bow on the victory by outscoring the Lady Hornets 28-23 in the second half.

Zayla Tinner led the way for Grambling State, putting up a game-high 17 points. As a whole, the Lady Tigers were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.88 points per possession on 41% shooting from the field. That offensive output included 4-of-15 shooting from beyond the arc and 19-of-29 shooting on free throws.

DaKiyah Sanders recorded nine points and five rebounds, and Cordasia Harris contributed another eight points to pace Alabama State. As a team, the Lady Hornets had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.66 points per possession on 34% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 33% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• 57% of GSU’s field goals were assisted
• Alabama State scored below 50 points for the 14th time this season
• The Lady Tigers led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Each team has its next game on Feb. 12. Grambling State takes on a confident Alabama A&M squad at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Lady Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to turn things around when they take on SWAC foe Southern at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

SOUTHERN VS ALABAMA A&M

Southern snapped Alabama A&M’s two-game win streak on Saturday afternoon, handing it a 67-60 loss at the F.G. Clark Activity Center. The Lady Jaguars went into halftime trailing 34-31 but outscored the Bulldogs by 10 points in the second half to come back and win.

Aleighyah Fontenot scored 15 points in an incredibly efficient 5-of-7 shooting performance to lead the way for Southern. The Lady Jaguars’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating their 67 points on 41% shooting from the field. Their shooting woes were alleviated by a relentless pursuit on the boards. Their 11 offensive rebounds led to 14 big second chance points.

Kaylah Turner recorded 20 points and five rebounds to lead the way for Alabama A&M. As a team, the Bulldogs shot 43% (25-of-58) from the field and 25% (3-of-12) from distance. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.84 points per possession on 47% true shooting.

• Southern committed six unforced turnovers (9% of possessions)
• Alabama A&M was plagued by nine unforced turnovers (13% of possessions)
• The game had 10 lead changes and nine ties

Each team has its next game on Feb. 12. Southern meets Alabama State at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, where the Lady Jaguars will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Alabama A&M will try to rebound when they take on Grambling State at the FCH Assembly Center.

JACKSON STATE VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Jackson State recorded its 10th straight win in dominating fashion, handing Mississippi Valley State University a 70-54 loss at Harrison HPER Complex on Saturday evening. It was even more one-sided than the score line indicates, as the Lady Tigers led by as many as 23 points.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for Jackson State. Miya Crump led the scoring with 13 points. Zakiya Mahoney added 12, while Andriana Avent also contributed 11 points. The Lady Tigers’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 25 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 19 points (63% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.98 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

Jaylia Reed scored 20 points, while Sh’Diamond McKnight added another 15 to lead the way for Mississippi Valley State University. Collectively, the Devilettes were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 29% of field goal attempts and 30% of three-point attempts. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 33% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Jackson State outscored Mississippi Valley State University in the paint 32 to 18
• Mississippi Valley State University recorded assists on 61% of attempted field goals
• The attendance of the game at Harrison HPER Complex was 2,209

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 12. Jackson State takes on Arkansas Pine-Bluff at H.O. Clemmons Arena, where the Lady Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will try to turn things around when they face struggling Alcorn State at Harrison HPER Complex.

MEN’S

NORTH CAROLINA A&T VS HOFSTRA

North Carolina A&T handed their third straight loss by Hofstra in an 81-49 loss at the Ellis Corbett Sports Center on Saturday afternoon. The Pride started by building up a 19-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Aggies 47-34 over the final 20 minutes.

German Plotnikov was an efficient machine, contributing 20 points on 8-of-9 shooting from the field to lead the way for Hofstra. As a whole, the Pride were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.23 points per possession on 51% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 11-of-22 attempts from deep.

Camian Shell scored 14 points, while Ahmad Hamilton added another 11 to lead the way for North Carolina A&T. As a team, the Aggies had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.76 points per possession on 27% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 37% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Hofstra committed five unforced turnovers (8% of possessions)
• NC A&T’s 27% field goal percentage marked a season-low
• Jaquan Carlos recorded a game-high +31 plus-minus

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 15. Hofstra takes on conference rival Drexel at the Daskalakis Athletic Center, where the Pride will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, North Carolina A&T will try to rebound when they take on UNCW at Trask Coliseum.

HAMPTON VS UNCW

Hampton falls to UNCW in a 95-65 loss at the Convocation Center on Saturday afternoon. The Seahawks started by building up a 21-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Pirates 49-40 over the final 20 minutes.

KJ Jenkins scored 16 points to lead the way for UNCW. As a whole, the Seahawks were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.41 points per possession on 60% shooting from the field. The transition game was a big factor in their success, 19 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Kyrese Mullen recorded 23 points and nine rebounds to lead the way for Hampton. The Pirates shot 24-of-61 from the field and 7-of-24 from behind the arc. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.94 points per possession on 48% true shooting.

• UNCW outscored Hampton in the paint 46 to 30
• Hampton was plagued by eight unforced turnovers (12% of possessions)
• The Seahawks led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Both sides have until Feb. 15 to rest up and practice. UNCW takes on conference rival North Carolina A&T at Trask Coliseum, where the Seahawks will look to continue their solid play in their return home. Meanwhile, Hampton will try to turn things around when they meet a Stony Brook side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at Island Federal Credit Union Arena.

ALCORN STATE VS ARKANSAS PINE-BLUFF

Alcorn State ended its two-game losing skid, defeating Arkansas-Pine Bluff in a 68-56 contest on Saturday evening at H.O. Clemmons Arena. The Braves got out to a 29-28 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Golden Lions again in the second half to come away with the victory.

Jeremiah Kendall, Jeremiah Gambrell, and Dekedran Thorn led the way for Alcorn State, contributing 16, 13, and 11 points, respectively. The transition game was a big factor in the Braves’ success, as 12 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.99 points scored per possession on 48% true shooting.

Kylen Milton led Arkansas-Pine Bluff, recording 19 points, 14 rebounds, and six assists. As a team, the Golden Lions shot 38% (19-of-50) from the field and 22% (6-of-27) from distance. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Arkansas-Pine Bluff only mustered 0.79 points per possession on 47% true shooting.

• Alcorn State recorded assists on a season-high 68% of made field goals
• UAPB’s 56 points marked a new one-game low for the season
• Four lead changes and two ties were recorded in the game

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 12. Alcorn State meets Mississippi Valley State University at Harrison HPER Complex, where the Braves will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, Arkansas-Pine Bluff will try to turn its home stand around when they face a Jackson State team also coming off a loss. They will meet at H.O. Clemmons Arena.

TEXAS SOUTHERN VS FLORIDA A&M

Texas Southern recorded its fourth straight win in dramatic fashion, handing Florida A&M a 78-75 overtime loss at the Al Lawson Center on Saturday evening. The Tigers went into halftime trailing Florida A&M 29-22 but were able to tie things up by the end of regulation. Momentum was on the Tigers’ side, as they continued to outscore the Rattlers 16-13 in overtime.

Zytarious Mortle scored 24 points to lead the way for Texas Southern. That performance included an impressive 12 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, Texas Southern shot 14-of-33 from the field in the second half, scoring 1.17 points per possession on average.

Keith Lamar recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds to lead the way for Florida A&M. The Rattlers shot 29-of-59 (49%) from the field in this one, including 6-of-20 (30%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.96 points per possession on 57% true shooting.

• TXSO’s bench outscored FAMU’s bench 36 to 16
• Florida A&M recorded assists on 69% of attempted field goals
• Kolby Granger recorded a game-high +13 plus-minus

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 12. Texas Southern takes on Bethune-Cookman at Moore Gymnasium, where the Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Florida A&M will try to turn its home stand around when they take on SWAC foe Prairie View A&M at the Al Lawson Center.

SOUTH CAROLINA STATE VS CHICAGO STATE

South Carolina State were dominant in victory, powering past Chicago State by a final score of 78-55 at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center on Saturday afternoon. The Bulldogs started by building up a 17-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Cougars 40-34 over the final 20 minutes.

Omar Croskey was an efficient machine, contributing 19 points on 6-of-6 shooting from the field to lead the way for South Carolina State. As a whole, the Bulldogs were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.29 points per possession on 57% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 10-of-20 attempts from deep.

Chicago St.’s offense was led by Jahsean Corbett, who scored 20 points. As a team, the Cougars shot 42% (17-of-40) from the field and 31% (5-of-16) from distance. That netted out to an average of 0.91 points per possession.

• South Carolina State set a season-best in field goal percentage at 57%
• Chicago St. struggled on the boards with just 20 total rebounds, a season-worst
• Caleb McCarty led all game players in plus-minus with a +27

South Carolina State is now 9-15 thanks to the win. The Bulldogs will head to Norfolk for their next contest, a Feb. 17 matchup with Norfolk State. Chicago St.’s record dropped to 11-17 with the loss. The Cougars will look for an improved outcome in their next game, a Feb. 14 faceoff with Eastern Ky. at Baptist Health Arena.

GRAMBLING STATE VS ALABAMA STATE

Grambling State earned an impressive SWAC win on Saturday evening, taking down Alabama State by a score of 74-68. The Tigers went into halftime with a 12-point lead. Despite being outscored 44-38 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Hornets and hold on for the win.

Kintavious Dozier scored 21 points while grabbing a season-high seven boards to lead the way for Grambling State. The Tigers’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 19 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 22 points (69% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.07 points scored per possession on 49% true shooting.

Bama St.’s offense was led by Antonio “TJ” Madlock, who scored 22 points. The Hornets shot 25-of-65 (38%) from the field in this one, including 6-of-25 (24%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Alabama State only mustered 0.94 points per possession on 47% true shooting.

• 43% of GSU’s field goals were assisted
• Alabama State outscored Grambling State 20 to 10 on second chance points
• Jalen Johnson led all game players in plus-minus with a +23

Each team has its next game on Feb. 12. Grambling State faces Alabama A&M at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to rebound when they meet a Southern side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

SOUTHERN VS ALABAMA A&M

Southern recorded its fifth straight win, handing Alabama A&M a 69-62 loss at the F.G. Clark Activity Center on Saturday evening. The Jags went into halftime trailing 28-25 but outscored the Bulldogs by 10 points in the second half to come back and win.

Brandon Davis scored 20 points to lead the way for Southern. That performance included an impressive 18 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. Southern’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 50% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.12 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 24% shooting and 0.7 points per possession in the first half.

Cameron Tucker recorded 12 points and six rebounds to lead the way for Alabama A&M. The Bulldogs shot 21-of-52 from the field and 4-of-13 from behind the arc. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Alabama A&M only mustered 0.82 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

• Southern recorded a new season-high seven blocks
• Alabama A&M recorded assists on 33% of attempted field goals
• The game had three lead changes and two ties

Both teams take the floor again on Feb. 12. Southern meets Alabama State at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, where the Jags will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Alabama A&M will try to rebound when they take on Grambling State at the FCH Assembly Center.

JACKSON STATE VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Jackson State ended its four-game losing skid, defeating Mississippi Valley State University in a 77-69 contest on Saturday evening at Harrison HPER Complex. The Tigers went into halftime trailing 36-34 but outscored the Delta Devils by 10 points in the second half to come back and win.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for Jackson State. Jordan O’Neal led the scoring with 18 points. Ken Evans added 17, while Treyon Johnson also contributed 11 points. The Tigers’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 17 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 19 points (79% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.18 points scored per possession on 53% true shooting.

The Delta Devils played well offensively in this one. They averaged 1.05 points per possession on 42% shooting from the field. Rayquan Brown led the way, putting up 20 points to go along with six boards. Donovan Sanders also contributed, adding another 18 points.

• Jackson State recorded assists on a season-low 22% of made field goals
• Mississippi Valley State University scored a season-high 36 first half points
• Jordan O’Neal led all game players in plus-minus with a +16

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 12. Jackson State takes on conference rival Arkansas Pine-Bluff at H.O. Clemmons Arena, where the Tigers will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will try to turn its home stand around when they meet an Alcorn State side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at Harrison HPER Complex.

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He also once played for Deion Sanders, making the cut for one of his seven-on-seven programs. Curtis picked Miami over Boston College, Georgia Southern and Western Kentucky. 

Curtis saw action in eight games for Miami Hurricanes football in his true freshman season – primarily on special teams – and finished with a pair of tackles. He saw action in 11 games as a sophomore in 2022, making a pair of stops again.

The 2023 season was a wash for Curtis – he didn’t record any statistics for the Miami Hurricanes.

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Check out the stats, trends, and key metrics for the upcoming MEAC games on Saturday, January 27th, 2024.

SWAC WOMEN

Florida A&M vs. Alcorn State

Florida A&M and Alcorn State are set to battle in this SWAC head-to-head on Saturday afternoon at the Al Lawson Center. The Lady Braves got the better of the Lady Rattlers in the teams’ last head-to-head matchup in February 2023 at Al Lawson Center, winning by a score of 73-67.

Florida A&M | OVR 3-13 | SWAC 2-3 (9th) | HOME 2-3

Despite their efforts, Florida A&M has struggled to secure offensive rebounds at the Al Lawson Center, with an average of just 11.4 per game in its home contests.

After allowing a generous 45.5% from the floor in their last five contests, the Lady Rattlers will be looking to put forward a strong defensive effort.

Alcorn State | OVR 4-12 | SWAC 2-3 (8th) | AWAY 1-10

Securing second opportunities has been a challenge for Alcorn State on the offensive end, averaging only 9.8 offensive rebounds throughout its past five games.

The Lady Braves’ rim protection has been impressive on the road this season. As the visiting team, they are averaging 3.6 blocks per game.

Key Metrics

• Florida A&M averages 0.81 points per possession for the season. This ranks seventh in the SWAC (conference average is 0.82).
• Alcorn State has allowed (on average) 0.93 points per defensive possession thus far this season. That value puts them eighth in the conference (SWAC average is 0.93).

Prairie View A&M vs. Alabama State

William Nicks Building is the venue for a SWAC showdown between Prairie View A&M and Alabama State this Saturday afternoon. In their last head-to-head encounter in January 2023, the Lady Hornets prevailed over the Lady Panthers at Dunn-Oliver Acadome, winning by a score of 77-74.

Prairie View A&M | OVR 6-9 | SWAC 2-3 (7th) | HOME 4-2

Ryann Payne showed out for Prairie View A&M with 16 points on 6-of-17 shooting in the team’s last matchup against Alcorn State. Payne (first on the team in total points) will look to keep the scoring up against the Lady Hornets’ defense.

William Nicks Building has witnessed several block parties this season, with the Lady Panthers averaging an impressive 4.7 blocks per game on their home court.

Alabama State | OVR 1-15 | SWAC 1-4 (11th) | AWAY 1-11

Alabama State has struggled to make shots away from its home court. As visitors, the Lady Hornets are converting on just 32.8% of their field goal attempts.

The Lady Hornets have a season average of 3.6 blocks per game. They are led by Cordasia Harris, who has blocked 24 shots on the year (sixth in the SWAC).

Key Metrics

• Prairie View A&M averages 0.85 points per possession for the season. This ranks sixth in the SWAC (conference average is 0.82).
• Alabama State has allowed (on average) 1.1 points per defensive possession thus far this season. That value puts them 12th in the conference (SWAC average is 0.91).

Get ready for an HBCU women’s basketball matchup this Saturday afternoon as Bethune-Cookman takes on Jackson State. The Lady Tigers took down the Wildcats in their most recent face-off at Moore Gymnasium in February 2023. The final score in that one was 77-52.

Bethune-Cookman vs. Jackson State

Bethune-Cookman | OVR 12-6 | SWAC 3-2 (3rd) | HOME 6-2

Over its last five games, Bethune-Cookman has scored an average of 71.4 points per game, a figure in line with its season average of 70.3.

The Wildcats average 11.7 steals per game and 2.5 blocks per game. Kayla Clark and Kerrighan Dunn have been the team’s defensive leaders in the two categories, with Clark averaging 1.0 blocks per game and Dunn averaging 2.3 steals per game.

Jackson State | OVR 9-6 | SWAC 5-0 (1st) | AWAY 3-5

Miya Crump led Jackson State in the team’s last matchup against Texas Southern, scoring 17 points on 5-of-11 shooting. Crump now comes into this matchup averaging 10.6 points per game on 37.6% shooting for the season.

Opponents have averaged 25.2% shooting from beyond the arc against Jackson State this season, but the Lady Tigers have improved recently, only allowing 15.9% shooting on three-pointers over their last five contests.

Key Metrics

• Bethune-Cookman tends to start hot. The team averages 34.9 first-half points per game, third best in the SWAC (conference average is 29.7).
• Jackson State runs a deliberate, slow-paced offense. The team averages just 71.1 possessions per 40 minutes, which ranks as the second-slowest in the SWAC. The Lady Tigers score approximately 0.95 points per possession in their methodical offensive approach.

Southern vs. Arkansas Pine-Bluff

Southern and Arkansas Pine-Bluff are set to battle in this HBCU head-to-head on Saturday afternoon at the F.G. Clark Activity Center. The Lady Jaguars got the better of the Lady Lions in the team’s last head-to-head matchup in March 2023 at Bartow Arena, winning by a score of 62-53.

Southern | OVR 5-11 | SWAC 3-2 (6th) | HOME 3-1

Bench production has been a major facet of Southern’s game of late. Over their last five games, the Lady Jaguars have averaged 28.2 bench points per contest.

The Lady Jaguars have delivered a series of impressive defensive performances at home this season. Southern has held visitors to the F.G. Clark Activity Center to just 48.0 points per game.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff | OVR 8-10 | SWAC 3-2 (5th) | AWAY 3-5

Arkansas-Pine Bluff does not need to be on its home court to light up the scoreboard. The Lady Lions maintain an impressive average of 75.0 points per away game.

Boxing out has been a recent focus for Arkansas-Pine Bluff. In their last five games, the Lady Lions have managed an average of 26.2 defensive rebounds.

Key Metrics

• Southern turns the ball over 16.3 times per game for the season. This is the third fewest per game in the SWAC (conference average is 19.1 turnovers per game).
• Arkansas-Pine Bluff is a great second half team. The Lady Lions average 40.1 second half points per game, which is best in the SWAC (conference average is 30.8).

Grambling State vs. Mississippi Valley State

This Saturday afternoon, Grambling State is set to take on Mississippi Valley State in an HBCU women’s basketball showdown in Grambling. The Lady Tigers took down the Devilettes in their most recent face-off at Harrison HPER Complex in January 2023. The final score in that one was 71-57.

Grambling State | OVR 10-6 | SWAC 4-1 (2nd) | HOME 7-1

Anijah Grant comes in trending upwards. Grant has averages of 8.6 points and 5.7 boards per game for Grambling State thus far this season and is ranked first on the team for total rebounds. Grant arrives off a 10-point, 9-rebound performance in the Lady Tigers’ last game against Southern.

In its most recent five games, Grambling State has encountered challenges in defending the three-pointer. During this period, opponents have been particularly accurate, shooting at a 35.5% rate from beyond the arc, which is an increase from a season-long average of 30.9%.

Mississippi Valley State | OVR 2-17 | SWAC 1-5 (12th) | AWAY 2-10

Recently, Mississippi Valley State has seen a rise in second chances. The Devilettes recorded an average of 13.6 offensive rebounds per game in their last five outings, marking an increase from their season average of 12.2.

The Devilettes have a season average of 3.7 blocks per game. They are led by Amberly Brown, who has blocked 28 shots on the year (third in the SWAC).

Key Metrics

• Grambling State tends to start hot. The team averages 39.8 first half points per game, best in the SWAC (conference average is 29.3).
• Mississippi Valley State averages 0.69 points per possession for the season. This ranks 11th in the SWAC (conference average is 0.84).

SWAC MEN

Bethune-Cookman vs. Jackson State

Moore Gymnasium will be the host for an exciting HBCU clash between Bethune-Cookman and Jackson State on Saturday evening. The Tigers outperformed the Wildcats in their recent face-off at Moore Gymnasium in February 2023, securing a 91-64 victory.

Bethune-Cookman | OVR 8-10 | SWAC 3-2 (5th) | HOME 6-1

Jakobi Heady showed out for Bethune-Cookman with 25 points on 9-of-16 shooting in the team’s last matchup against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Heady (first on team in total points) will look to keep the scoring up against the Tigers’ defense.

Defending the perimeter has been a struggle of late for the Wildcats. Opponents have averaged 37.1% shooting from three in Bethune-Cookman’s last five games.

Jackson State | OVR 8-10 | SWAC 4-1 (2nd) | AWAY 4-9

Jackson State does not need to be on its home court to light up the scoreboard. The Tigers maintain an impressive average of 68.7 points per away game.

Jordan O’Neal has been a leader for the Tigers this year protecting the paint. O’Neal has 30 rejections on the year (1.7 per game), ranking first out of all players in the SWAC.

Key Metrics

• Bethune-Cookman tends to start hot. The team averages 36.1 first half points per game, second best in the SWAC (conference average is 31.5).
• Jackson State averages 0.98 points per possession for the season. This ranks fifth in the SWAC (conference average is 0.96).

Florida A&M vs. Alcorn State

Don’t miss the action as Florida A&M and Alcorn State face off this Saturday evening in Tallahassee. The Braves emerged victorious against the Rattlers in their last meeting at Al Lawson Center in February 2023, with a final score of 67-64.

Florida A&M | OVR 3-12 | SWAC 1-4 (11th) | HOME 1-3

Shannon Grant led Florida A&M in the team’s last matchup against Mississippi Valley State, scoring 17 points on 8-of-12 shooting. Grant now comes into this matchup averaging 9.5 points per game on 61.0% shooting for the season.

Rim protection has posed a challenge for the Rattlers, even with a supportive crowd. They’ve averaged just 1.5 blocks per home game this season.

Alcorn State | OVR 3-15 | SWAC 2-3 (9th) | AWAY 1-14

The Braves do not let opposing crowds phase them, with an impressive 41.2% accuracy on field goal attempts on the road.

The Braves have a season average of 1.6 blocks per game. They are led by Jeremiah Kendall, who has blocked eight shots on the year (17th in the SWAC).

Key Metrics

• Florida A&M has allowed (on average) 1.16 points per defensive possession thus far this season. That value puts them 10th in the conference (SWAC average is 1.08).
• Alcorn State prioritizes taking care of the ball. The Braves average just 12.0 turnovers per game, which ranks as the second fewest per game in the SWAC this season (conference average is 14.1 turnovers per game).

Texas Southern vs. Alabama A&M

Health & Physical Education Arena will be the host for an exciting HBCU clash between Texas Southern and Alabama A&M on Saturday evening. The Bulldogs suffered a defeat at the hands of the Tigers in their last head-to-head encounter at Bartow Arena in March 2023, with a final score of 74-61.

Texas Southern | OVR 5-12 | SWAC 3-3 (7th) | HOME 2-2

Recently, Texas Southern’s offense has benefited from extra opportunities. The Tigers averaged 10.6 second chance points in their last five games, a notable increase from their season average of 8.0.

Visiting teams have let it fly from three at Health & Physical Education Arena. Texas Southern has allowed an average of 8.5 made three-pointers per home game this season.

Alabama A&M | OVR 3-15 | SWAC 2-3 (9th) | AWAY 2-9

Alabama A&M will hope this contest marks the end of its poor three-point shooting away from home. Opposing crowds have frazzled the Bulldogs into shooting just 24.4% from distance.

Opponents have averaged 38.3% shooting from beyond the arc against Alabama A&M this season, but the Bulldogs have improved recently, only allowing 34.0% shooting on three-pointers over their last five contests.

Key Metrics

• Texas Southern turns the ball over 12.1 times per game for the season. This is the third fewest per game in the SWAC (conference average is 14.0 turnovers per game).
• Alabama A&M averages 0.94 points per possession for the season. This ranks ninth in the SWAC (conference average is 0.97).

Southern vs. Arkansas Pine-Bluff

Baton Rouge will be the host Saturday evening as Southern and Arkansas-Pine Bluff go head-to-head. The Jags fell short against the Golden Lions in their most recent head-to-head Pine Bluff clash in January 2023, losing by a score of 62-55.

Southern | OVR 9-9 | SWAC 3-2 (4th) | HOME 6-0

Trips to the charity stripe have been frequent for Southern. The Jags have averaged 22.8 free throw attempts over their last five contests.

Opponents have struggled to find their three-point range when visiting the F.G. Clark Activity Center. Southern has limited them to an average of just 4.5 made three-pointers per home game this season.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff | OVR 8-10 | SWAC 3-2 (5th) | AWAY 2-7

Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s second unit has had its struggles on the road this season. The Golden Lions have averaged a mere 9.8 bench points per game in away games.

Teams have struggled scoring against Arkansas-Pine Bluff as of late. In the Golden Lions’ last five games, they’ve only allowed an average of 76.4 points per game, a significant decrease from their season average of 85.7.

Key Metrics

• Southern is a great second half team. The Jags average 39.3 second half points per game, which is second best in the SWAC (conference average is 36.9).
• Arkansas-Pine Bluff tends to start hot. The team averages 39.6 first half points per game, best in the SWAC (conference average is 31.2).

Prairie View A&M vs. Alabama State

William J. Nicks Building will be the host for an exciting HBCU clash between Prairie View A&M and Alabama State on Saturday evening. The Hornets got the better of the Panthers in the teams’ last head-to-head matchup in January 2023 at Dunn-Oliver Acadome, winning by a score of 56-55.

Prairie View A&M | OVR 7-11 | SWAC 2-3 (8th) | HOME 3-0

Charles Smith IV was on fire from deep in Prairie View A&M’s last matchup against Alcorn State. Smith IV scored 19 points on 3-of-6 shooting from three. This points to a recent upwards shooting trend. Smith IV averages 13.4 points per game and 1.3 made threes per game and ranks second on Prairie View A&M and 17th in the SWAC in three-pointers made this season.

Rim protection has posed a challenge for the Panthers, even with a supportive crowd. They’ve averaged just 1.3 blocks per home game this season.

Alabama State | OVR 7-9 | SWAC 4-1 (1st) | AWAY 2-7

Dominating the offensive glass has been a hallmark of Alabama State’s play on the road. In their away games, the Hornets are securing an average of 13.3 offensive rebounds per game.

Ubong Okon has been a leader for the Hornets this year protecting the paint. Okon has 18 rejections on the year (1.1 per game), ranking third out of all players in the SWAC.

Key Metrics

• Prairie View A&M plays at the third fastest pace in the SWAC. The team averages 73.7 possessions per 40 minutes (SWAC average is 71.2) and scores approximately 0.96 points per possession.
• Alabama State prioritizes taking care of the ball. The Hornets average just 11.4 turnovers per game, which ranks as the fewest per game in the SWAC this season (conference average is 14.1 turnovers per game).

Grambling State vs. Mississippi Valley State

The FCH Assembly Center will be the host for an exciting HBCU clash between Grambling State and Mississippi Valley State on Saturday evening. The Delta Devils will look for a better result this time around. They lost to the Tigers in their last showdown in January 2023 at Harrison HPER Complex, with the score of that game 65-61.

Grambling State | OVR 7-11 | SWAC 4-1 (3rd) | HOME 5-1

Grambling State has gotten to the stripe more frequently in their last five outings, averaging 21.4 free throw attempts per game in that span, a marked increase from their season average of 18.4.

Rim protection has posed a challenge for the Tigers, even with a supportive crowd. They’ve averaged just 2.7 blocks per home game this season.

Mississippi Valley State | OVR 0-19 | SWAC 0-6 (12th) | AWAY 0-15

Mississippi Valley State’s second unit has had its struggles on the road this season. The Delta Devils have averaged a mere 12.9 bench points per game in away games.

The Delta Devils have improved their shot-blocking in the last five games, averaging an increased 3.2 blocks, up from their season average of 1.9.

Key Metrics

• Grambling State prefers to play methodically and execute in the half-court. The Tigers play at the second slowest pace in the SWAC. They average 67.8 possessions per 40 minutes, compared to the SWAC average of 71.8.
• Mississippi Valley State runs a deliberate, slow-paced offense. The team averages just 66.3 possessions per 40 minutes, which ranks as the slowest in the SWAC. The Delta Devils score approximately 0.79 points per possession in their methodical offensive approach.

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NORFOLK STATE VS NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL — WOMEN

Norfolk State recorded its fifth straight win in dominating fashion, handing North Carolina Central an 81-60 loss at McDougald-McLendon Arena on Monday evening. The Spartans started by building up an eight-point halftime lead and sealed the game by outscoring the Eagles 48-35 over the final 20 minutes.

Da’Brya Clark led the way for Norfolk State, putting up a season-high 18 points. The Spartans’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating 81 points on 37% shooting from the field. The transition game was a bright spot though, as 20 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Kyla Bryant scored 17 points, while Aniya Finger added another 11 to lead the way for North Carolina Central. As a team, the Eagles had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.74 points per possession on 34% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 37% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

KEY METRICS

• Norfolk State scored a season-high 48 second half points
• North Carolina Central was plagued by seven unforced turnovers (9% of possessions)
• The Spartans led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Norfolk State has until Jan. 20 to rest up and practice. Norfolk State meets Howard at Burr Gymnasium, where the Spartans will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, North Carolina Central will try to rebound when they face North Carolina Wesleyan at McDougald-McLendon Arena.

SOUTHERN VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M — WOMEN

Southern recorded its third straight win in dominating fashion, handing Prairie View A&M an 84-56 loss on Monday evening. The Lady Jaguars started fast, accumulated a 15-point lead into the break. They didn’t let up in the second half either, increasing their lead to as large as 34 points.

Genovea Johnson led the way for Southern, putting up 18 points to go along with five boards. The Lady Jaguars made a concerted effort to absorb contact and convert it into points. They drew 20 fouls on the defense, which led to a season-high 21 points on 78% shooting from the charity stripe. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.03 points scored per possession on 55% true shooting.

Ryann Payne scored 14 points, while Jada Roberson added another 12 to lead the way for Prairie View A&M. Collectively, the Lady Panthers were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 35% of field goal attempts and 7% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Prairie View A&M went 21-of-30.

KEY METRICS

• Southern scored a season-high 46 points off the bench
• Prairie View A&M scored below 60 points for the eighth time this season
• Sirviva Legions led all game players in plus-minus with a +27

Both teams have their next games on Jan. 13. Southern takes on conference rival Florida A&M at the Al Lawson Center, where the Lady Jaguars will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to turn things around when they take on SWAC foe Mississippi Valley State University at William Nicks Building.

ALABAMA A&M VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE — WOMEN

Alabama A&M handed Mississippi Valley State University its 12th consecutive loss in an 83-67 contest at Harrison HPER Complex on Monday evening. The game was tied at halftime, but the Bulldogs outscored the Devilettes 46-30 over the final 20 minutes to come away with the win.

Victoria Dixon secured their first 20-point scoring game of the season, putting up 21 points to lead Alabama A&M. The Bulldogs made a concerted effort to absorb contact and convert it into points. They drew 23 fouls on the defense, which led to a season-high 22 points on 69% shooting from the charity stripe. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.06 points scored per possession on 55% true shooting.

Sh’Diamond McKnight scored 23 points while dishing out five assists to lead the way for Mississippi Valley State University. The Devilettes shot 24-of-54 from the field and 5-of-14 from behind the arc. That netted out to an average of 0.88 points per possession.

KEY METRICS

• Alabama A&M scored a season-high 46 second half points
• Mississippi Valley State University collected 14 steals, a season-best
• Six lead changes and five ties were recorded in the game

Alabama A&M gets its first conference win of the year. Next, the Bulldogs will face struggling Alcorn State on Jan. 11 at the Event Center. MVSU’s recent struggles continued with its loss this evening. A Jan. 13 matchup with conference rival Prairie View A&M in Prairie View is the Devilettes’ next shot at a win.

TEXAS SOUTHERN VS GRAMBLING STATE — WOMEN

Texas Southern ended its 10-game losing skid, defeating Grambling State in a 72-67 contest on Monday evening at the FCH Assembly Center. Texas Southern went into halftime with a 13-point lead. Despite being outscored 41-33 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Grambling State and hold on for the win.

Taniya Lawson, Anela Thomas, and Nya Harmon led the way for Texas Southern, contributing 17, 16, and 13 points, respectively. The Lady Tigers made a concerted effort to absorb contact and convert it into points. They drew 23 fouls on the defense, which led to a season-high 22 points on 79% shooting from the charity stripe. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.86 points scored per possession on 56% true shooting.

Kahia Warmsley recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds, and Zayla Tinner contributed another 11 points to pace Grambling State. Collectively, the Lady Tigers were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 29% of field goal attempts and 14% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Grambling State went 16-of-18.

KEY METRICS

• 67% of TXSO’s field goals were assisted
• Grambling State started slow, scoring a season-low 26 first-half points
• Jordyn Carter recorded a game-high +11 plus-minus

Both sides have until Jan. 13 to rest up and practice. Texas Southern welcomes Arkansas-Pine Bluff to Health & P.E. Arena, where the Lady Tigers will look to continue their solid play in their return home. Meanwhile, Grambling State will hope for a better result on the road when they meet a Bethune-Cookman side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at Moore Gymnasium.

ALABAMA STATE VS ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF — MEN

Alabama State recorded its third straight win, handing Arkansas-Pine Bluff an 83-72 loss at H.O. Clemmons Arena on Monday evening. The game was tied at halftime, but the Hornets outscored the Golden Lions 46-35 over the final 20 minutes to come away with the win.

CJ Hines scored 21 points to lead the way for Alabama State. Hines was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 4-of-8 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Hornets’ success, as 25 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.01 points scored per possession on 53% true shooting.

Kylen Milton recorded 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the way for Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Golden Lions shot 24-of-62 (39%) from the field in this one, including 7-of-27 (26%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 0.89 points per possession.

KEY METRICS

• Alabama State recorded assists on a season-high 62% of made field goals
• Arkansas-Pine Bluff was plagued by five unforced turnovers (6% of possessions)
• Sean Smith led all game players in plus-minus with a +20

Alabama State’s win is a great start to its season series with the Golden Lions. The Hornets’ next test is a matchup with Jackson State, which also won its last game, at Dunn-Oliver Acadome on Jan. 11. This evening’s defeat was another tough result for Arkansas-Pine Bluff. It had lost in its last outing against Alabama A&M and was looking to rebound. The Golden Lions will travel to Health & Physical Education Arena for their next chance at a win, a Jan. 13 battle with Texas Southern.

ALABAMA A&M VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE — MEN

Alabama A&M handed Mississippi Valley State University its 15th consecutive loss in a 78-70 contest at Harrison HPER Complex on Monday evening. The Bulldogs’ lead was as large as 19 points in the first half, but they weren’t able to extend it any further. After a rough start, the Delta Devils played a competitive second half.

Dailin Smith was an efficient machine, contributing 17 points on 6-of-8 shooting from the field to lead the way for Alabama A&M. Smith was not the sole contributor though. The Bulldogs’ offense delivered from many fronts, pouring in 1.18 points per possession on 50% shooting from the field. Their aggressive play paid off, as they drew 18 fouls on the defense, which led to 18 points on 72% shooting from the charity stripe.

Offense was not the issue for the Delta Devils. They scored their 70 points on 42% shooting from the field. Rayquan Brown led the way, putting up 23 points to go along with five boards. Despite shooting well overall, Mississippi Valley State University dug themselves an early hole. The team went down as much as 19 in the first half, and were ultimately unable to catch back up and push past Alabama A&M.

KEY METRICS

• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 66.4 was a season-low for Alabama A&M
• Mississippi Valley State University scored a season-high 31 first half points
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Bulldogs leading the entire game

Alabama A&M earned a good win against a tough SWAC rival. Next, the Bulldogs will face struggling Alcorn State on Jan. 11 at the Event Center. MVSU’s recent struggles continued with its loss this evening. A Jan. 13 matchup with conference rival Prairie View A&M is the Delta Devils’ next shot at a win.

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Deion Sanders made the announcement on Tuesday during a Zoom meeting with members of the media.

“This guy is one of the smartest guys on the staff.  He just needed opportunity and guess what happened? He got opportunity. Vincent Dancy  is going to be a coordinator one day somewhere and then consequently a head coach. One of the most intelligent coaches and can recruit and when he talks to the team, when I put him up in front of the team you could tell he was a head coach. He demands attention he wasn’t stuttering or stumbling. He has it,” Sanders said.

Dancy drew the praise and admiration of Sanders when they coached against one another in the Southwestern Athletic Conference when Coach Prime coached at Jackson State.  Dancy spoke last year about why he left his head coaching position to join the Colorado staff with Deion Sanders.

“We developed a relationship that was that’s just pure genuine,” Dancy said. “He accepted me. I accepted him. He took me under his wing to teach me and helped me grow in my profession, and meet people that I probably would have never met before. He’s a man of his word.”

The position became open after the departure of Nick Williams, who coached the defensive ends in the 2023 season.  Williams left his post at Colorado to join the staff at Syracuse.

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MiLaysia Fulwiley scored a game-high 17 points to lead the way for South Carolina. Fulwiley led what was a complete offensive performance for the Gamecocks. The team shot 55% from the field while scoring 1.21 points per possession. The transition game was a big factor in their success, 45 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Sh’Diamond McKnight recorded eight points and five rebounds, and Lizzie Walker contributed another four points to pace Mississippi Valley State University. As a team, the Devilettes had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.24 points per possession on 12% shooting from the field. Even the uncontested attempts were not falling, as the team went a paltry 2-of-8 from the free throw line.

• South Carolina’s defense buoyed their offense, scoring 20 points off of 19 Mississippi Valley State University turnovers
• Mississippi Valley State University was plagued by 10 unforced turnovers (13% of possessions)
• MiLaysia Fulwiley led all game players in plus-minus with a +53

South Carolina women’s basketball proved once again that it is a tough matchup. The Gamecocks’ next matchup is a Nov. 30 game against North Carolina at Carmichael Arena. MVSU’s recent struggles continued with its loss this afternoon. The Devilettes will hope for a better result in their next game, a Nov. 27 visit by Lipscomb to Itta Bena.

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Cam Spencer scored 25 points to lead the way for UConn. Spencer was dangerous from three-point land, connecting on 7-of-11 attempts. Spencer was not the sole contributor though. The Huskies’ offense delivered from many fronts, pouring in 1.33 points per possession on 55% shooting from the field. The transition game was a big factor in their success, 16 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Rayquan Brown recorded 18 points and eight rebounds, and Donovan Sanders contributed another 12 points to pace Mississippi Valley State University. As a team, the Delta Devils had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.77 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. It was a forgettable game from three-point range as the team collectively shot 1-of-9 from deep.

• UConn committed five unforced turnovers (8% of possessions)
• Mississippi Valley State University was plagued by 10 unforced turnovers (14% of possessions)
• The Huskies led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

UConn continued its perfect start to the season. The Huskies’ next test is a matchup with Indiana, which also won its last game, at Madison Square Garden on Nov. 19. MVSU’s recent struggles continued with its loss this evening. It doesn’t get any easier in the Delta Devils’ next game on Nov. 17. They will face a TCU team that has been impressive lately.

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

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

MEAC

Norfolk State-24,976

South Carolina State-22,269

North Carolina Central-13,626

Howard-7,684

Delaware State-6,300

Morgan State-Canceled

SWAC

Jackson State-30,947

Alabama A&M-26,391

Florida A&M-22,338

Southern-21,492

Alcorn State-21,012

Alabama State-17,995

Prairie View A&M-14,224

Arkansas-Pine Bluff-13,469

Bethune-Cookman-9,458

Mississippi Valley State-8,752

Grambling State-8,657

Texas Southern-6,352

CAA

North Carolina A&T-21,500

Hampton-13,811

CIAA

Winston-Salem State-8,200

Virginia Union-5,250

Shaw-5,022

Livingstone – 4,501

Bowie State-4,395

St. Augustine’s-3,719

Fayetteville State-3,680

Elizabeth City State-3,579

Johnson C. Smith-3,452

Virginia State-3,409

Lincoln (PA)-2,117

Bluefield State-N/A

SIAC

Tuskegee-31,726

Clark Atlanta-19,597

Savannah State-12,723

Fort Valley State-12,113

Morehouse-10,213

Benedict-8,589

Albany State-8,371

Kentucky State-2,898

Edward Waters-2,472

Lane-1,753

Allen-905

Central State-N/A

Miles-N/A

Other

Tennessee State-13,975

West Virginia State-3,954

Lincoln (MO)-3,333

Virginia University-Lynchburg-1,753

Florida Memorial-1,200

Langston-N/A

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Bethune-Cookman (1-7 Overall, 0-5 in SWAC)

The Wildcats will look to improve their standing in the SWAC – East by adding another win to their 0-5 conference record. They are scoring an average of 18.1 points per contest, with a total of 19 touchdowns on the year. The Wildcats’ defense is conceding an average of 30.1 points per game.

Tailback Jimmie Robinson III will be leading Bethune-Cookman in this one. Robinson III has rushed for 284 yards this season, scoring two touchdowns on the ground.

Bethune-Cookman has a committee rushing offense. No one player accounts for more than 31% of its rush attempts.

The Wildcats’ record sits at 0-3 for their last three games, allowing over 20 points in each of those matchups. They are 1-1 at home so far this year, averaging 31.0 points per game in those games. Bethune-Cookman is looking for their first FCS HBCU win this year, as they’re currently 0-5 in DI HBCU match ups.

Mississippi Valley State (1-7 Overall, 1-4 in SWAC)

The Delta Devils’ performance this season has been uninspiring, both offensively and defensively. They’ve only been averaging 245 yards of total offense per game. To make matters worse, opposing offenses have been racking up 405 yards per game against Mississippi Valley State’s defense. They’ve had considerable trouble against the pass this year. Quarterbacks have had their way with this secondary, which allows 7.3 yards per pass attempt.

Tailback Jared Wilson will be leading Mississippi Valley State in this one. Wilson has collected 324 rush yards this season, scoring two touchdowns on the ground.

Mississippi Valley State loves to get their quarterback involved in the ground game, with 39% of their rush attempts coming from their signal caller.

The Delta Devils’ record sits at 1-2 for their last three games, averaging 289 offensive yards per game during those games. They are 0-3 on the road so far this year, averaging 7.3 points per game in those games. Mississippi Valley State is 1-5 in FCS HBCU games, averaging 12.2 points per game in those games.

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Alcorn State outbattled Mississippi Valley State on Saturday afternoon by a final score of 24-3.

Jarveon Howard starred in the ground game for Alcorn State, rushing for one touchdown. Jacorian Sewell contributed as well, rushing for 92 yards and one touchdown. As a team, the Braves’ willingness to take risks on fourth down paid off. They converted each of their two attempts.

DePhabian Fant had a big day for Mississippi Valley State, accumulating 57 yards on the ground. The Delta Devils struggled to take drives all the way to the endzone, with their only points coming from a field goal.

Key Metrics to Victory: Alcorn State

• Play selection – recorded a fairly even pass-run split with 25 passing attempts and 31 rushing attempts
• Possession – controlled the ball for 31:00 (52% of the game)
• Third down success – converted on 30% of third downs (3-10) while Mississippi Valley State converted just 15% (2-13)
• Red zone efficiency – converted on 67% of red zone trips

Alcorn State proved once again that it is a tough matchup. A battle with SWAC foe Southern is the Braves’ next test. They will meet on Nov. 4 at Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium. Mississippi Valley State’s record dropped to 1-7 with the loss. The Delta Devils’ next game is against a Bethune-Cookman side that is also recovering from a recent loss. They will square off on Nov. 2 at Municipal Stadium.

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Mississippi Valley State overpowered Arkansas-Pine Bluff on homecoming weekend to claim their first victory of the season, winning 42-17.

Ty’Jarian Williams led the way for Mississippi Valley State, throwing for 265 yards and two touchdowns in this one. Receivers Kerrick Ross and Kobe Chambers both scored scored receiving touchdowns. The Delta Devils piled up 414 yards in an efficient offensive performance.

Running back Kierstan Rogers starred in the ground game for Arkansas-Pine Bluff, racking up an impressive 108 yards on 10 carries. Pine Bluff’s kicking game was shaky, missing two field goals during the loss.

Key Metrics to Victory: Mississippi Valley State

• Play selection – recorded a fairly even pass-run split with 29 passing attempts and 32 rushing attempts
• Possession – controlled the ball for 31:23 (52% of the game)
• Third down success – converted on 54% of third downs (7-13) while Arkansas-Pine Bluff converted just 31% (4-13)
• Turnover battle – turned the ball over zero times while collecting two turnovers from Arkansas-Pine Bluff
• Penalties – recorded four penalties for 45 yards while Arkansas-Pine Bluff had eight penalties for 64 yards

Both teams take the field again on Oct. 21. Mississippi Valley State takes on a confident Jackson State squad at Rice-Totten Stadium, where the Delta Devils will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Arkansas-Pine Bluff will try to rebound when they take on Alcorn State at Simmons Bank Field.

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