Tillman, best known for his role as Milchick on the Apple TV+ series Severance, earned his very first Emmy nomination and win on Sunday night. His victory places Jackson State in the national spotlight once again, as another HBCU graduate breaks barriers on the biggest stage in entertainment.

From HBCU Roots to Hollywood Success

Before transferring to Jackson State, Tillman began his college career at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, another distinguished HBCU. Tillman was a premed student at XULA but transferred to Jackson State in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. That HBCU foundation shaped his path as an artist and leader, giving him the resilience and presence that now define his work.

His academic journey through historically Black colleges highlights the powerful role HBCUs continue to play in developing world-class talent across every field—including Hollywood.

A Competitive Emmy Field

Tillman’s category featured a strong lineup of nominees: Zach Cherry (Severance), James Marsden (Paradise), John Turturro (Severance), Sam Rockwell (The White Lotus), Jason Isaacs (The White Lotus), and Walton Goggins (The White Lotus).

By capturing the award, Tillman not only earned personal recognition but also created a cultural milestone that further elevates Jackson State University’s reputation.

A Powerful Speech Dedicated to His Mother

During his acceptance speech, Tillman shared words of focus and determination:

“You remember what you want to remember. You make time for what you want to make time for, do the work, show up, and most importantly, for the love of God, don’t embarrass me in public.”

He then dedicated the moment to his mother:

“My first acting coach was tough, y’all, but all great mothers are. Mama, you were there for me when no one else was and no one else would show up. Your loving kindness stays with me, and this is for you… As my mama would say, ‘look at God.’”

A Historic Emmy Night

The award, presented by Jude Law and Jason Bateman, came as the third honor of the evening, following wins by Seth Rogen (The Studio) and Jean Smart (Hacks) in the comedy categories.

Tillman’s win not only cements his place in Emmy history but also underscores the importance of Jackson State and HBCUs in shaping cultural leaders who inspire on a global scale.

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Early Strike by Clark Atlanta

After the game kicked off an hour and 45 minutes late due to weather, Clark Atlanta set the tone in the first quarter when McDonald broke free for a 50-yard touchdown run with 4:50 remaining. Carlos Lopez added the extra point to give the Panthers a 7–0 lead.

Florida Memorial answered in the second quarter with a grinding 12-play, 62-yard drive, capped by a 1-yard touchdown from Nygel Osborne. The Lions missed the extra point, leaving CAU ahead 7–6.

Just before halftime, the Panthers’ two-minute offense came alive. McDonald guided the team 68 yards in five plays, setting up Lopez for a 31-yard field goal that pushed the lead to 10–6 at the break.

Panthers Find the Big Play in the Second Half

The highlight of the game came early in the third quarter. On the first play of a drive, McDonald connected with Ronnie West on a 37-yard touchdown strike, extending Clark Atlanta’s lead to 17–6.

That cushion proved vital as Florida Memorial mounted a late push. With 6:40 left in the fourth, Fernando Jeanty punched in a 6-yard score to close the gap to 17–12. However, the Panthers’ defense held firm in the final minutes to secure the win.

Offensive Leaders

Clark Atlanta (CAU)

• QB Zy McDonald: 11-of-15 passing, 148 yards, 1 TD; 2 carries, 54 rushing yards, 1 TD
• WR Ronnie West: 4 catches, 50 yards, 1 TD
• WR David Martin: 1 catch, 61 yards
• RB Armone Harris: 1 rush for 22 yards; 6 receptions for 37 yards

Florida Memorial (FMU)

• RB Fernando Jeanty: 11 carries, 59 yards, 1 TD
• RB Nygel Osborne: 12 carries, 51 yards, 1 TD
• QB David Buggs: 5-of-12 passing, 39 yards, 1 INT

By the Numbers

• Total Offense: CAU 256 yards (148 passing, 108 rushing) | FMU 141 yards (39 passing, 102 rushing)
• Yards per Play: CAU 6.6 | FMU 3.1
• Third Down Conversions: CAU 3-of-9 | FMU 4-of-13
• Turnovers: FMU 1 (interception) | CAU 0

Final Thoughts

Clark Atlanta showcased balance on offense, with McDonald emerging as a true dual-threat leader. The defense bent at times but didn’t break, keeping Florida Memorial out of the end zone until late in the game.

For Florida Memorial, the run game showed promise behind Jeanty and Osborne, but struggles in the passing attack limited their ability to keep pace.

The Panthers move forward with confidence, while the Lions leave with lessons learned after a gritty effort on the road.

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The first two years of the competition have produced thrilling finales. Florida Memorial University (FMU) claimed the inaugural title in 2023, while Miles College took home the championship in 2024. Virginia State has been the runner-up in both years, and Winston-Salem State has twice finished in third place. That history of near-misses makes 2025 a season of redemption for both VSU and WSSU, who again find themselves in contention.

Poll Results: Florida Memorial Top D2 HBCU Band

Ballots for the inaugural Division II/NAIA Red Lobster Band of The Year media poll were distributed last week, and the results are in. Florida Memorial sits at No. 1 with 461 points, narrowly edging Virginia State with 439 and Miles College with 438.

Virginia Union and Langston round out the top five, while Winston-Salem State leads the second half of the top ten. Benedict, Tuskegee, Fort Valley State, and Fayetteville State complete the list.

Breaking Down the Categories

Bands are judged across musicality, drill and design, percussion, drum majors, and auxiliaries, and the early results show where each program shines.

• Musicality: Florida Memorial leads the way with a score of 96, followed by Miles and Virginia State.
• Drill and Design: Miles tops this category with 90 points, while Florida Memorial and Virginia State follow closely.
• Percussion: Florida Memorial again takes the lead with 96 points, edging Miles and Virginia State.
• Drum Majors: Florida Memorial continues its dominance here with 87 points, but Miles and Virginia State are not far behind.
• Auxiliaries: Florida Memorial earns another top mark with 92 points, followed by Virginia State and Miles.

Division II/NAIA Media Poll Top 10

1. Florida Memorial University (FMU) – 461
2. Virginia State University (VSU) – 439
3. Miles College – 438
4. Virginia Union University – 376
5. Langston University – 374
6. Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) – 368
7. Benedict College – 366
8. Tuskegee University – 356
9. Fort Valley State University (FVSU) – 354
10. Fayetteville State University – 351

The Road to Atlanta Tough At D2, too

If history is any indication, the battle for Atlanta will come down to the smallest of margins. Florida Memorial looks poised to reclaim its 2023 form, while defending champion Miles College aims to repeat. Virginia State, so close in each of the first two years, is determined to finally break through. Meanwhile, Winston-Salem State is once again in striking distance of its first championship berth.

The 2025 Division II/NAIA Red Lobster Band of The Year race promises the same drama and artistry that have made HBCU marching bands a cultural institution. With each halftime performance carrying national implications, this season will once again celebrate the pageantry, precision, and passion that define the HBCU band tradition.

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But which HBCUs best prepare students for long-term career success? That’s the question LinkedIn set out to answer with its 2025 Top Colleges list, which ranks institutions based on the career outcomes of alumni.

How the Rankings Were Determined

LinkedIn’s methodology focuses on real-world alumni outcomes. The platform evaluated its massive Economic Graph, tracking how graduates fare after leaving campus. Key factors included:

• Employment success: How quickly graduates land full-time roles.
• Career progression: How often alumni advance into senior or leadership positions.
• Long-term outcomes: Patterns of sustained career growth across industries.

This approach shifts the conversation from prestige or admissions selectivity to what matters most—whether students thrive professionally after graduation.

The Top 10 HBCUs in the U.S. (2025)

1. Howard University

Known as “The Mecca,” Howard consistently produces leaders in politics, business, arts, and sciences. Its location in Washington, D.C., provides unmatched opportunities for internships and careers in government, law, and media.

2. Morehouse College

The only all-male HBCU, Morehouse has a historic legacy of cultivating Black male leadership. Its alumni network stretches from civil rights icons to Fortune 500 executives.

3. Spelman College

As the nation’s top-ranked HBCU for women, Spelman continues to empower its graduates in STEM, the arts, and leadership roles. Its strong academic reputation and sisterhood network open doors worldwide.

4. North Carolina A&T State University

The largest HBCU in the nation, NC A&T is a powerhouse in engineering, agriculture, and business. Its graduates are highly sought after in corporate America and government alike.

5. Hampton University

Nicknamed “The Standard of Excellence,” Hampton blends tradition with innovation, preparing alumni for careers in healthcare, education, and media.

6. Tuskegee University

With deep roots in STEM and agriculture, Tuskegee continues to push boundaries in research and professional training, producing trailblazers in engineering, science, and the military.

7. Florida A&M University (FAMU)

FAMU’s School of Business and Industry is a standout pipeline for Black talent into Fortune 500 companies. Alumni span industries from finance to entertainment.

8. Clark Atlanta University

Located in the heart of Atlanta, CAU thrives on combining business, arts, and social sciences. Its strong alumni network fuels opportunities in one of America’s fastest-growing cities.

9. Xavier University of Louisiana

Renowned for sending more Black graduates to medical school than any other university, Xavier excels in the sciences and health professions.

10. Morgan State University

As Maryland’s premier urban research university, Morgan produces leaders across engineering, business, and urban planning—helping to shape cities of the future.

Why These Rankings Matter

HBCUs don’t just provide education—they create pathways to leadership, equity, and community advancement. LinkedIn’s rankings highlight how these schools are not only preserving tradition but also adapting to a changing economy, ensuring their graduates remain competitive in a global workforce.

For students and families considering college choices, these results affirm what alumni have long known: an HBCU education pays off—not only in cultural pride but also in career success.

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“We’ve been working tirelessly to address critical infrastructure challenges and ensure our students, faculty, and staff have comfortable learning and living environments,” said Theresa Powell, Vice President of the Division of Operations.

Academic Facilities: Climate Control Overhaul

Four academic buildings—Moore Hall, Sanford Hall, Jones Hall, and the G. Lamar Harrison Library—are undergoing full Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) upgrades financed through Title III grant funds. New chiller systems are scheduled for delivery in mid-September, and installation will be completed by the end of the month.

Temporary chillers are currently in place, providing interim relief despite occasional brownouts caused by increased power demand. Similar upgrades are being planned for Allied Health. At the same time, a large-scale HVAC modernization for C.F. Gayle’s Gymnasium, the Atrium, and the John Montgomery Multipurpose Building will go out for a competitive bid in August. That project will be financed through Oklahoma’s Capital Asset Management and Protection (OCAMP) program.

Residential Housing: A Transformation in Comfort

The HBCU is also replacing outdated systems in four residential communities—Centennial Court, Cimarron Gardens, Commons Apartments, and Scholars’ Inn—through Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) grants. Centennial Court’s five buildings are receiving entirely new HVAC systems to correct long-standing mechanical flaws, while Cimarron Gardens residents will gain central air conditioning for the first time.

Commons Apartments and Scholars’ Inn will see installations of state-of-the-art cooling systems over the fall semester. Despite supply chain and compliance-related delays, the housing upgrades are targeted for completion by Dec. 30, 2025.

Accessibility and Safety Initiatives

Sanford Hall’s elevator is undergoing a complete modernization, including electrical, telephonic, fire suppression, and mechanical upgrades. The project began on July 22 and is expected to be operational in mid-August, pending state inspection. Additional elevator projects are in the planning stage.

In Oklahoma City, Langston’s satellite campus is preparing for a full roof replacement following storm damage in November 2024, which FEMA later classified as a natural disaster. The project, supported by OCAMP funding, is moving into contract finalization after competitive bidding. Temporary repairs remain in place while interior restoration continues.

Looking Ahead

Langston plans to continue its facility investments into fiscal year 2026, prioritizing electrical and utility upgrades, roadway repairs, and further elevator modernization once the next round of OCAMP funds is released in September.

“These investments directly support our mission of educational excellence,” Powell said. “They ensure Langston University continues to provide world-class educational experiences for generations to come.”

The HBCU posted project updates on its Physical Plant and Campus Projects webpage and asked for community patience during construction.

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But this isn’t just about launching a golf team. It’s about leveling the playing field, with some help from the PGA.

“This grant is more than just golf clubs and gear. It’s a doorway to access, exposure, and equity,” said FMU Interim President William C. McCormick, Jr., an avid golfer and the first FMU alum to lead the university. “Golf is a game of discipline, integrity, strategy, and connection. Our students deserve every opportunity to discover and benefit from that experience.”

A Grant with Game-Changing Impact

The grant will provide student-athletes with everything they need to get started—from clubs and training equipment to access to local courses and mentorship opportunities. FMU hopes to build not just a team, but a movement that introduces students of color to a sport often perceived as exclusive and inaccessible.

“We’re thrilled to support FMU and its mission to provide students exposure to the game,” said Todd Fleming, Executive Director of the Cognizant Classic. “The opportunity to enrich the lives of young people through the game we love is a privilege.”

The support from the Cognizant Classic—South Florida’s marquee PGA TOUR event—marks a significant push toward expanding golf’s reach in Black communities. It aligns with FMU’s broader strategy of diversifying its athletic offerings and preparing students for success on and off the course.

Beyond the Greens: Golf as a Gateway

For FMU, golf isn’t just a sport—it’s a tool for professional development and personal growth. The university aims to use the program to promote:

• Networking and leadership skills are critical for post-graduate success
• Mental and physical wellness through focused, low-impact play
• Increased representation in golf, from players to industry leaders

“Historically, golf has been out of reach for many in our community,” McCormick said. “This changes that. It’s about planting a seed that can grow into an opportunity for generations to come.”

Eyes on the Sun Conference

While the FMU Golf Club will start as a student organization in 2026, the long-term vision is competitive. By 2027, FMU intends to field a team in the Sun Conference, competing with other NAIA schools. It’s part of a larger blueprint for elevating HBCU athletics strategically, inclusively, and boldly.

“Florida Memorial University continues to rise,” said McCormick. “This new golf program is another example of how we’re writing our future—boldly, purposefully, and inclusively.”

HBCU visibility in golf is gaining momentum—and FMU is taking the lead in South Florida, one swing at a time.

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A Change of Plans

Earlier this year, Gibson—two-time Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year in the HBCU Athletic Conference—committed to the University of New Orleans (UNO). He had announced his transfer portal entry via Instagram, followed days later by a post revealing his commitment to UNO with two years of eligibility left.

That plan has now changed. On Wednesday afternoon, the Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA) men’s basketball team posted on Instagram that Gibson had committed to their NAIA program. XULA is a cross-town rival of Gibson’s former school, Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO).

Dominance at first HBCU

Gibson made an immediate impact at SUNO during the 2023–2024 season. Despite being a 26-year-old rookie with no prior organized basketball experience, the 6-foot-8 forward dominated the NAIA level.

In his freshman season, he averaged 21 points and 15.8 rebounds per game. He led the nation in total rebounds and set program records for points (579), rebounds (453), and double-doubles (27) in a single season.

Gibson continued his dominant performance into 2024–2025. He logged his 43rd consecutive double-double with 26 points and 20 rebounds against Wilberforce University. He earned multiple conference and national honors and reclaimed his Player of the Year awards on both ends of the court.

The UNO Factor

Master P, a New Orleans icon, became UNO’s President of Basketball Operations in February. Gibson was considered a major pickup for the program.

“As a kid growing up in New Orleans, I can honestly say that basketball changed and saved my life,” Miller said. “At that time, UNO was one of the best programs in the country. It was all about Privateer Nation, and there was so much excitement on the Lakefront. As President of Basketball Operations, I am committed to bringing back that winning tradition to NOLA’s Team.”

HBCU bound again

Instead of suiting up for a Division I team, Gibson will now join a strong XULA squad that finished 20–10 last season and earned a spot in the NAIA Tournament.

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The budget includes more than $142 million in direct operational support, plus an additional $20 million for campus security upgrades. This marks one of the most substantial state investments in Florida’s HBCUs in recent years.

FAMU Leads in Funding

Florida A&M University (FAMU), the state’s only public HBCU, received the largest share. The university is allocated $110.5 million in operating funds. While early projections suggested the figure could reach $115 million, the final amount remains a major investment in FAMU’s academic and research growth.

Private HBCUs Secure Key Support

Three private HBCUs in Florida also benefit from this budget.
Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) will receive $17 million.
Edward Waters University (EWU) is set to get $7.5 million.
Florida Memorial University (FMU) will receive $7 million.

These operational funds support instruction, student services, faculty development, and campus infrastructure.

$20 Million for Campus Security

In addition to general funding, the legislature approved $20 million in “hardening” funds for HBCU campus security upgrades. This money is set aside for safety improvements like surveillance systems, secure entry points, fencing, and emergency response technology.

This separate security allocation comes amid growing concerns over threats targeting minority-serving institutions nationwide. It underscores the state’s commitment to safeguarding Florida’s HBCU communities.

Steady Growth, But Not Historic

The 2025–26 budget continues Florida’s pattern of steady support for its HBCUs. While the allocations represent growth, they do not match some other states’ historic, one-time infusions. Even so, this funding provides stability and continued growth opportunities for these institutions.

HBCUs Remain a Priority in Florida

Florida’s latest HBCU investments arrive as higher education faces national debates over diversity programs and public funding priorities. Despite cultural and political tensions, this budget signals bipartisan recognition of HBCUs’ vital role in the state’s educational landscape.

With the fiscal year beginning on July 1, HBCU leaders will focus on turning these funds—both operational and security-focused—into real improvements for their campuses and the communities they serve.

Final Numbers Recap

• Florida A&M University: $110.5 million
• Bethune-Cookman University: $17 million
• Edward Waters University: $7.5 million
• Florida Memorial University: $7 million
• Security Upgrades for All HBCUs: $20 million (separate from operations)
• Total Investment: $162 million

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Boston City Council Vice President Leads the Charge

Boston City Council Vice President Brian Worrell is spearheading the initiative. According to The Boston Herald, Worrell recently called for a public hearing to explore bringing an HBCU to Boston—a city that was once a leader in Black education during the 19th century.

“An HBCU presence would provide role models for current Black students by showing them a tangible pathway to success,” Worrell said during a council meeting. “Boston led the way in educating Black students in the first half of the 19th century, with the opening of the Abiel Smith School. We need to rediscover that trailblazing spirit.”

Worrell’s proposal is closely tied to Boston’s Building Bridges HBCU program, which he describes as a direct response to the recent national pushback against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Growing Demand for HBCUs in the North

The hearing order notes that while there are more than 100 HBCUs in the U.S., most are located in the South—a reflection of their historical role in countering Jim Crow laws. Today, the need for culturally responsive educational spaces is growing, particularly in areas like Boston where Black students have limited access to HBCU environments.

Worrell’s office told The Boston Herald that updates on the city’s efforts to attract an HBCU partner will be shared this fall. Boston Public Schools Chief of Student Support Cory McCarthy emphasized the increasing interest, saying, “The appetite for an HBCU has grown immensely within the last five years.”

He added, “Bringing an HBCU to Boston would further showcase the city’s commitment to building an educational ecosystem that values, supports, and elevates Black students.”

The Impact of HBCUs Nationwide

Worrell highlighted that despite making up just 3% of U.S. higher education institutions, HBCUs produce a disproportionate number of Black professionals:

• 40% of Black engineers and members of Congress
• 50% of Black lawyers and doctors
• 70% of Black dentists

These statistics underscore the enduring importance and success of HBCUs in advancing Black excellence.

California’s HBCU Expansion as a Model

Boston’s vision aligns with similar efforts on the West Coast. In 2024, Huston-Tillotson University, based in Austin, Texas, announced plans to open a satellite campus in California. However, the university’s California branch is not expected to open until August 2025, pending accreditation approval from the state.

According to the university’s website, the California campus will initially offer coursework aligned with the university’s Liberal Studies requirements and plans to fully establish a branch campus by August 2025.

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The decision follows a unanimous vote by the SSAC Board of Presidents earlier this month, signaling a significant realignment within the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) landscape.

The move marks Xavier’s fourth full-time conference affiliation since the inception of its athletic programs. The university previously competed in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) from 1935 to 1960, the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) from 1981 to 2021, and most recently, the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC), where it has been a member since 2021.

“We are thrilled to welcome Xavier University of Louisiana as a full member of the SSAC,” said Mike Hall, conference commissioner. “Their history of academic and athletic achievement strengthens our conference at every level.”

Academic Success

Hall pointed to Xavier’s recent top-25 finish in the Learfield Directors’ Cup standings as a testament to the HBCU’s broad-based athletic success in NAIA. The Directors’ Cup ranks collegiate athletic programs based on their performance across multiple sports.

Xavier will not wait until 2026 to compete in the SSAC ecosystem. Three of its programs, competitive cheer, men’s indoor track and field, and women’s indoor track and field, will participate as affiliate members during the 2025-26 season.

The SSAC, founded in 1999, comprises institutions across Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Its current members include Loyola University (New Orleans), William Carey University (Hattiesburg, Miss.), University of Mobile (Mobile, Ala.), and nine others across the Southeast.

For Xavier, the move carries both strategic and historical significance. The New Orleans-based HBCU will renew conference rivalries with Loyola, Mobile, and William Carey. Three schools it frequently faced during its tenure in the GCAC, including as recently as the 2009-10 academic year.

“We are excited to join the Southern States Athletic Conference,” said Xavier Athletic Director Pat Kendrick. “We look forward to the high level of competition and the opportunity to reignite longstanding rivalries.”

Xavier President Reynold Verret echoed those sentiments, adding, “Joining the Southern States Athletic Conference affirms our commitment to excellence and expands opportunities for our scholar-athletes to thrive both in the classroom and in competition.”

The transition also signals the end of Xavier’s five-year tenure in the RRAC. Before formally exiting, the university plans to compete for at least 12 RRAC championships during the 2025-26 season.

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Coach Mack’s story starts long before the NBA spotlight. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Mack was a standout player at Guthrie High School before heading to Langston University—an HBCU nestled just north of Oklahoma City. He played college basketball there from 1969 to 1973, proudly representing Langston’s rich legacy of Black excellence in athletics.

From Langston University to the NBA

“My background is basketball,” Mack shared in an NBA Today feature. “I played high school ball in Guthrie, Oklahoma… then got recruited to Langston University, which is an HBCU.”

After college, Mack poured his heart into coaching, spending nearly 25 years on the sidelines as the girls’ basketball coach at Frederick Douglass High School in Oklahoma City. Known for his mentorship and tough love, Mack helped mold young athletes and impart life lessons that extended beyond the game.

In 2005, when the New Orleans Hornets relocated to Oklahoma City in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, Coach Mack got his first NBA gig—providing security at games. He’s been with the Thunder ever since.

Coach Mack’s Role with the Thunder

Though his official title is “security guard,” his badge reads “Coach Mack”—by request. “When I took the job here, my name tag didn’t say Coach Mack,” he recalled. “I said, ‘We gotta fix this.’ That’s who I am.”

What makes Mack special isn’t just his basketball pedigree—it’s the way he connects with everyone, from arena staff to All-Stars.

“Coach Mack is just so, so special,” said NBA Today host Malika Andrews. “He’s been so lovely and wonderful and welcoming to us.”

Oklahoma City Thunder players feel the same.

“He treats everybody with respect and dignity,” said Oklahoma Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault. “He’s a great presence. He helps me with some advice from time to time… I take note.”

Players and Coaches Respect the HBCU Legend

Mack’s connection to players runs deep. Whether it’s a game-day pep talk or just a handshake in the hallway, he brings the same passion and presence he did when coaching high schoolers.

“He’s a big part of what we do,” said NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “He’s happy to be there, happy to hold the door for you. He’ll take your bag if your hands are full.”

His impact stretches far beyond Oklahoma City. NBA legend Kobe Bryant once asked to take a photo with Coach Mack during his final game in OKC. It wasn’t Mack chasing the moment—it was Kobe recognizing greatness in someone else.

“Coach Mack remembers yelling at two older boys in the hallway that night,” said ESPN’s Marc Spears. “Then he gets a tap on the shoulder—‘Kobe wants to take a picture with you.’ That’s the greatest moment of his hallway career.”

A Legacy of Love, Built at an HBCU

Now, as the Oklahoma City Thunder chase their first title in over a decade, Coach Mack is still in his post, dapping up visiting players, encouraging the home team, and making everyone feel seen.

“Oklahoma City won’t be the same if we pull this thing off,” he said. “I just love what I do. I guess everybody knows Coach Mack all across the country… Not bragging—it’s just that when you show love to people, people show love back.”

The NBA Today segment on Coach Mack didn’t just move fans—it drew love from NBA players across the league.

“Coach Mack is my guy!!! Appreciate him soo much!!! ?,” NBA veteran Russell Westbrook commented after seeing the feature. JR Smith chimed in, “Yes Sir!!! Coach Mack the man!!!!???” And former NBA guard Isaiah Thomas added, “Coach Mack got that good energy every time you see em ?.”

In the Thunder’s championship quest, stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren will grab headlines. But behind the scenes, the heart of this team is a man who once laced up for Langston, patrolled high school sidelines, and now holds down a hallway with wisdom, warmth, and the soul of an HBCU legend.

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Thomas arrives at High Point after a two-year stint at Florida Memorial, an HBCU in the NAIA ranks. From 2023 to 2025, he compiled a 47-15 overall record and guided the team to a 2024 Sun Conference Tournament championship and national tournament berth. His success at FMU built upon a remarkable coaching journey that began at his alma mater, Shawnee State.

At Shawnee State, Thomas engineered one of the most impressive turnarounds in small-college basketball history. After taking over in 2017, he led the Bears to a 31-2 record in the 2020-21 season, culminating in the program’s first-ever NAIA national championship. The Bears captured the Mid-South regular season and tournament titles during that run, with Thomas earning national honors including NAIA Coach of the Year and the Don Meyer Coach of the Year Award.

In total, Thomas has coached multiple All-Americans and sent nine players into the professional ranks, including one currently in the NBA G-League. His reputation for player development and program-building has been firmly established in the HBCU and NAIA coaching communities.

Thomas also brings international experience to the Division I ranks. After starring at Shawnee State from 2002 to 2004—where he remains the school’s all-time leader in blocks and rebounds per game—he played professionally for nine years in six countries. His coaching career also includes successful stints in Norway and Uruguay at various youth and high school levels.

A native of Columbus, Ohio, and a 2017 Shawnee State Athletic Hall of Fame inductee, Thomas now begins a new chapter in High Point with his wife and two children, continuing a basketball journey rooted in HBCU excellence and international experience.

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The performance marks a milestone for the HBCU, which is home to South Florida’s only historically Black college or university (HBCU). The Ambassador Chorale, founded in 1975 by the late Professor Roosevelt Williams, has long served as a musical ambassador for the institution.

A Legacy of Excellence

Currently under the direction of Dr. Argarita Johnson-Palavicini—affectionately known as Dr. J—the 30-member choir has built a reputation for versatility and excellence. The ensemble performs a diverse range of musical styles, including classical, gospel, and student-composed works.

“This moment is a testament to the dedication of our students and the enduring power of music at HBCUs,” said Dr. Johnson-Palavicini.

The invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall followed a successful collaboration with the New World Symphony in Miami Beach last summer. That appearance caught the attention of national organizers and led directly to the New York engagement.

Community Support Makes It Possible

For the past year, the choir has worked tirelessly to raise funds for the trip. Backed by alumni, donors, and community leaders—including Miami Gardens Councilwoman Katrina Baskins—the group reached its goal.

The Ambassador Chorale will travel to New York on Wednesday, June 18. Three days later, they will join choirs from across the country in a mass performance at Carnegie Hall.

Florida Memorial University’s choir has also been selected to perform a solo arrangement of the African American spiritual, “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” The performance will highlight the cultural and musical traditions that define the HBCU experience.

Reaching a New Stage

Over the years, the Ambassador Chorale has performed across the United States, the Bahamas, and Europe. Yet this upcoming appearance represents something different.

“To perform at Carnegie Hall is the dream of every serious musician,” said Dr. Johnson-Palavicini. “For an HBCU choir like ours, it’s more than a dream—it’s a powerful affirmation.”

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The multi-phase development is expected to cost between $500 million and $1 billion. Reshaping both the university and the surrounding Miami Gardens community.

HBCU Faces Faculty Recruitment Challenges Due to High Housing Costs

FMU Interim President William McCormick shared with the Miami Herald that the university had repeatedly lost out on top faculty candidates, not because of salary, but due to the high cost of housing in South Florida.

“Even when we interviewed qualified candidates, they would accept the job, but then they couldn’t find proper housing,” McCormick said. “So we didn’t get quality hires on board because they just couldn’t afford to find someplace to stay.”

The data supports his concern. According to Salary.com, the average salary for FMU employees is about $77,611. However, Zillow reports that the median home price in Miami Gardens is over $530,000, and the average monthly rent is around $3,000.

HBCU Development Plan Includes Workforce and Student Housing

In response, FMU is leveraging its unused land near campus to launch a major housing and infrastructure project in partnership with Redwood Dev Co. As detailed in the Miami Herald report, the plan includes:

• Six residential buildings with 300 units each for workforce housing
• 1,000 new dormitory beds on campus for students
• New amenities such as a café, basketball courts, a turf field, and modern academic facilities

Currently, FMU houses about 800 students on campus. The additional beds could help the university reach President McCormick’s goal of growing enrollment from 1,300 to 3,000 students.

Public-Private Partnership Model Powers the Project

Following a model similar to many public-private partnerships, FMU will lease university-owned land to the developer at a low rate. In return, Redwood Dev Co will finance and build the new facilities.

Construction is expected to begin within the next 12 months. Pricing for the workforce housing units has not been disclosed yet. The project aims to provide more accessible housing options for faculty, staff, and nearby residents.

David Burstyn, co-founder of Redwood Dev Co, told the Miami Herald, “What we’re going to be doing in that first phase is a complete face-lift of the front of the university—security gates, landscaping, and curb appeal. When you drive through FMU, you’ll see a project underway with both short-term results and a long-term vision.”

FMU Shows HBCU Leadership in Community Development

The development was presented to and approved by the FMU Board of Trustees in February. For McCormick, this isn’t just a construction plan—it’s a statement about FMU’s role in the region.

“There’s a big need in Miami-Dade,” he said. “Being able to present an opportunity for residents to get some decent housing is a good testament to our commitment to them, as they’ve been committed to us.”

Redwood co-founder Brian Sidman echoed that sentiment, saying the project would not only serve local housing needs but also fuel FMU’s academic growth. “By having additional housing on the workforce side and helping the local community, we will also help with his [McCormick’s] vision for the university in terms of growing the student population with new best-in-class facilities.”

A Model for HBCUs Nationwide

This ambitious project demonstrates how HBCUs can lead in addressing systemic challenges, such as housing access, while maintaining a focus on education and equity. By aligning development with community needs, Florida Memorial University is setting a powerful example for other institutions.

As a historic HBCU, it partners with a local developer for multi-million dollar upgrades. FMU isn’t just investing in buildings—it’s investing in people, progress, and the future of South Florida.

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A Surprise Turn in the HBCU Coaching Carousel

This spring, Allen University proudly announced Payne as its new head men’s basketball coach. It looked like a fresh chapter for the former Mississippi Valley State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff head coach — an opportunity to bring his SWAC-tested experience to a new Division II stage.

But that rebuild never began.

Fast forward to June, and Payne is back at Talladega College, where he previously coached the women’s team for one season. Only this time, he’s pulling double duty: returning as head coach of the women’s basketball program and stepping into the role of athletic director. A comeback story with a plot twist no one saw coming.

“I am thankful and excited about returning to Talladega College,” said Payne. “My previous experience at Dega was truly special. It is a great opportunity to reunite with Dr. Todd, who truly understands the importance of athletics on an HBCU campus.”

Talladega Sees a Leader Return

Dr. Willie L. Todd Jr., president-elect of Talladega College, didn’t hold back his praise for Payne’s return.

“I am thrilled to welcome Coach Andre Payne back as our head women’s basketball coach and new athletic director,” said Dr. Todd. “He is highly respected, not only by his fellow coaches, but also by the entire college community.”

This move brings Payne full circle in record time. While the college sports world is used to coaching changes, it’s rare to see one undone so quickly. And with a promotion baked into the return.

“One of my main goals is to ensure that our student-athletes will grow holistically,” he said. “We want to develop them academically, athletically, professionally, and socially.”

A Big Win for Talladega, a Pivot for Allen

For Talladega, this is a major coup. For Allen, it’s back to the drawing board. And for Payne, it’s a second chance to build something special at an HBCU that believes in his vision.

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He made his name at Xavier University of Louisiana, an NAIA HBCU, where he became the all-time winningest coach in men’s basketball history. In 2024, the NAIA school honored him with induction into its Hall of Fame.

A Proven Leader in HBCU Athletics

“We’re excited to welcome such a talented coach with a rich history of success to lead the Benedict Tigers,” said Willie Washington, Director of Athletics at Benedict College.

“Coach Jackson is a Hall of Fame Coach who has a proven track record and possesses the experience, talent, and determination to advance our basketball team to the next level… Coach Jackson has an unwavering commitment to helping players develop the discipline required to succeed academically and achieve both their professional and personal goals.”

Over 17 seasons at Xavier, Jackson built a winning legacy. His teams delivered 11 20-win seasons and captured five Gulf Coast Athletic Conference regular-season titles. They won three straight from 2011 to 2014 and reached the NAIA national tournament 10 times. He led the program to nationals in each of his final six years.

A New Chapter for the Tigers

Before coming to Benedict, Jackson served as head coach and deputy athletic director at Talladega College. Under his leadership, the team achieved a 54-33 record over three seasons. Earning wins against NCAA Division I and SIAC teams.

“I’m truly blessed and excited to join Benedict College,” Jackson said. “This is a special place with a proud legacy. I’m ready to get to work. My goal is to build a program that our students, alumni, and the entire Benedict family can be proud of. We’re going to compete, grow as men, and win the right way—together.”

HBCU Legacy and Vision

Dannton Jackson’s arrival marks more than just a coaching change. His deep roots in HBCU athletics and consistent record of success make him the right leader to elevate Benedict College’s basketball program.

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Johnson’s generous contribution was made in honor of Dr. Norman C. Francis, Xavier’s former president, who led the institution for 47 years. Under Dr. Francis’s leadership, Xavier became a national leader in producing Black medical school graduates, significantly expanding its campus and enrollment. “The mark of a great man [is] who shows up,” Johnson remarked during the gala. “Because the man that you are, all the great things that you’ve done in your stellar career. And all the people that you helped. You became successful through your great leadership at Xavier… In your honor, I’m going to give Xavier $500,000.”

The Centennial Gala, hosted by comedian Bill Bellamy and featuring a performance by R&B legend Jeffrey Osborne, raised over $2 million to support student scholarships. The event also honored the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, who founded Xavier alongside Saint Katharine Drexel in 1925. Dr. Reynold Verret, Xavier’s current president, emphasized the significance of the fundraising efforts: “The funds raised through the gala — every gift, every act of generosity — will directly support scholarships, ensuring that more students have access to the education they deserve and the future they dream of.”

Magic Johnson, Bryant Gumbel, and Dr. Norman C. Francis

Xavier University of Louisiana is the nation’s only Catholic HBCU and continues to be a leading institution in preparing Black students for careers in medicine and STEM fields. The university’s Centennial Campaign aims to raise $500 million to further its mission of fostering educational excellence and equity.

Beyond his recent contribution to Xavier University, Magic Johnson has a longstanding history of HBCU support:

• South Carolina State University: In 2016, Johnson pledged to raise $2.5 million to establish the Magic Johnson Endowed Scholarship Fund, supporting students in the School of Business.
• Grambling State University: In 2019, Johnson donated $2 million through his company SodexoMAGIC, one of the largest unrestricted gifts in the university’s history.
• Central State University: Johnson pledged $1 million in 2018 to support the university’s initiatives and student success.
• Morgan State University: In 2024, he pledged $1 million to endow a professorship in Entrepreneurship at the Earl G. Graves School of Business & Management.

These contributions highlight Johnson’s commitment to empowering Black students and supporting the mission of HBCUs nationwide.

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SHREVEPORT, La. | The Grambling State University football team will open the 2025 HBCU football season in the Shreveport Kickoff Classic versus Langston University at Independence Stadium at 7 p.m. on Aug. 30 in Shreveport, La. 

“We’re thrilled to open our season with the Shreveport Kickoff Classic against a outstanding program like Langston University,” said GSU Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Trayvean D. Scott. “This matchup not only showcases two storied institutions but also brings our passionate fan base together in a city with deep cultural and athletic ties to Grambling State. It’s more than a game—it’s a celebration of tradition, excellence, and community.” 

“This will surely be an epic battle of the big cats! I am excited for our football team to play in the same location as the Independence Bowl,” said Langston University Director of Athletics Donnita Drain-Rogers. “Our Lions as well as the Langston University Marching Pride Band will have the opportunity to showcase their talents on one of the biggest HBCU stages of the year.

The 2025 game marks a return to Shreveport for GSU, who last competed in the Shreveport Classic in 2022 when the Tigers defeated Northwestern State 47-21. Grambling State has played 20 games in the city of Shreveport and sports a 16-3-1 all-time record. 

GSU and LU have played each other six times since 1977 with the G-Men holding a 5-1 series lead. Grambling State and Langston last met in 2008, with GSU winning 13-2. 

The Shreveport Kickoff Classic has its roots in the former Red River State Fair Classic, which began in 1911.

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Langston University, located in Oklahoma, is the only HBCU in the state and competes in the NAIA’s Sooner Athletic Conference. The Lions have maintained a competitive football program. Contending for conference titles and producing standout athletes who gain attention beyond the NAIA level.

Travis Martin’s performance at Langston has been noteworthy. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 213 pounds, Martin showcased his athleticism and versatility throughout his collegiate career. In his senior season, Martin tallied 27 total tackles with 21 solo, three tackles for loss, four pass breakups, and two interceptions. He earned himself a place on the All-SAC First Team. Over his career, he played in 31 games at Langston. Totalling 69 tackles (47 solo), 10 interceptions, and 23 pass breakups. His invitation to the Seahawks’ mini-camp not only underscores his impact on the field but also shows that NFL scouts will find talent anywhere, even at the NAIA level.

HBCU Legacy Bowl

Martin’s participation in the 2025 HBCU Legacy Bowl allowed scouts to interact with and scout Martin on a personal level. The event, held at Tulane University’s Yulman Stadium, featured top draft-eligible prospects in HBCU football. Martin’s inclusion in this unique showcase indicates his standing among the elite HBCU players. The Legacy Bowl, in partnership with the NFL, aims to give HBCU athletes increased visibility. Ensuring that talents like Martin receive the recognition they deserve.

The Seattle Seahawks’ decision to invite Martin to their rookie minicamp reflects a broader trend among NFL teams. One that sees HBCU football players getting UDFA or minicamp deals instead of being drafted by the NFL. Despite the challenges HBCU athletes face, including limited exposure and resources, many have successfully transitioned to professional football. Notable examples include Xavier Smith from FAMU. The wide receiver signed with the Los Angeles Rams as an undrafted free agent in 2023. Keenan Isaac from Alabama State joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a UDFA the same year. These players have demonstrated that HBCU athletes can compete at the highest levels of professional football.

Making the Team

The Seahawks’ 2025 draft strategy focused heavily on offense, selecting nine offensive players and only two defensive players. This emphasis suggests that undrafted defensive players like Martin may have increased opportunities to make an impact during mini-camps and potentially secure a spot on the roster. Seattle’s commitment to building a competitive, championship-caliber team with a growth-oriented environment could provide the perfect setting for Martin to showcase his abilities and earn a place in the NFL.

In recent years, several NAIA alumni have made their mark in the NFL. For instance, Damon Harrison, who played at William Penn University, signed with the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent and went on to enjoy a successful career as a defensive tackle. Other notable NAIA players who reached the NFL include Patrick Crayton (Northwestern Oklahoma State), Derrick Ward (Ottawa University), and Tyronne Gross (Eastern Oregon University).

Martin’s journey from Langston University to the Seattle Seahawks’ mini-camp underscores the importance of HBCUs in developing talented athletes and the increasing recognition of these programs by professional leagues. As more HBCU players receive opportunities to prove themselves, the legacy and impact of these institutions continue to grow within the American football landscape.

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Coach Rome, who played collegiately at the University of North Carolina, was chosen from a competitive pool of over 230 applicants that included former NFL players and coaches at every level. But what set him apart was his proven ability to build and elevate programs at HBCUs, along with his commitment to mentorship and community engagement.

“Being selected to build Chicago State’s football program is an honor, and I’m grateful for the trust that President Scott, Dr. Carroll and the entire university have placed in me,” said Rome. “Our visions are aligned. We’re not just building a football team—we’re building something that reflects the pride of the South Side and draws from the legacy of HBCU excellence.”

CSU Athletic Director Dr. Monique Carroll echoed the excitement. “When we began this journey, we were committed to finding a leader who understands not only football, but the cultural and community significance of what we’re doing,” she said. “Coach Rome’s HBCU background and success made him the ideal fit for this role. Today is a historic day for CSU and for Chicago.”

As part of CSU’s vision to bring football to the South Side, an exploratory committee featuring community leaders, former Chicago Bears, high school coaches, and business leaders helped shape the direction of the new program. That spirit of inclusion will continue as Rome begins laying the foundation for the team.

“The future starts now,” said Coach Rome. “Chicago is getting a Division I football team, and it will be rooted in the spirit, culture, and pride that HBCUs have championed for generations. We are ready to get going.”

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NEW ORLEANS — Former HBCU, NBA basketball player Donald “Slick” Watts, one of the brightest HBCU basketball stars in Xavier University of Louisiana’s athletic constellation, died Saturday (March 15, 2025). He was 73 years old. Funeral arrangements have not been announced. Watts’ health declined after a stroke in April 2021. He was a member of the first XULA Athletic Hall of Fame class—he attended that induction on Nov. 3, 2022, on the campus—and was one of the leaders of the renaissance of XULA men’s basketball during the early 1970s.

He played for the New Orleans-based HBCU from 1970-73 and produced 1,460 points and 331 assists—both XULA career records at the time and still among the best numbers at the HBCU. In each of Watts’ final two seasons, XULA won NAIA District 30 tournament championships and won at NAIA nationals. During Watts’ senior season, the Gold Rush upset unbeaten and top-ranked Sam Houston State 67-60 to reach the NAIA quarterfinals. No XULA men’s basketball team since then has advanced that far.

Survivors include a sister, Felicia Watts Wheatley, whose daughter, McKenna Wheatley, is a XULA junior and part of the No. 1 doubles team with Mbali Langa in the Intercollegiate Collegiate Tennis Association NAIA March rankings. Wheatley and Langa won the ITA Cup NAIA doubles championship in October.
       

More on Slick Watts:

        •  Played six seasons in the NBA (1973-79), starting with the Seattle SuperSonics as an undrafted free agent
        •  NBA career statistics: 437 games and per-game averages of 8.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, 6.1 assists and 2.2 steals
        •  One of 16 selected in 2007 to the Seattle SuperSonics 40th-anniversary team
        •  Received the NBA’s J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award for exemplary community service in 1975-76 . . . he was the second recipient of this award
        •  Also in 1975-76, he was chosen to the NBA All-Defensive team
        •  In 1975-76 with Seattle, he was the first to lead the NBA in steals and assists in the same season
        •  According to basketball-reference.com, he ranks seventh on the NBA/ABA career list with 2.20 steals per game and 57th with 6.13 assists per game through the 2023-24 season
        •  One of his Gold Rush teammates was Bruce Seals, also a 2022 Xavier University of Louisiana Athletic Hall of Fame inductee
        •  ESPN in 2004 ranked him among the 16 “coolest athletes of all time.”
        •  Credited for popularizing the wearing of the headband by basketball players
        •  Other inductions:
        — Louisiana Basketball Hall of Fame in 1991
        — Allstate Sugar Bowl Greater New Orleans Sports Hall of Fame in 1996
        — Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2011
        •  Born in Rolling Fork, Miss.

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Dillard University Bleu Devils

The Dillard Bleu Devils secured their first NAIA tournament berth since 2018 by clinching the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) championship. In a thrilling final, Dillard edged out Philander Smith College with a last-second layup, sealing a 19-11 season record. Entering the tournament as the 15th seed in the Duer Quadrant, they are set to face William Woods University (Mo.), a team riding a 23-game winning streak and boasting a 28-2 record. This matchup presents a formidable challenge for Dillard as they aim to make a deep tournament run. 

Florida Memorial University Lions

The Florida Memorial Lions earned an at-large bid to the tournament after a strong 23-7 season. Despite falling short in the Sun Conference semifinals to eventual champions Ave Maria University, their performance throughout the season secured them the 9th seed in the Naismith Quadrant. They will face Friends University (Kan.) in the opening round, a team that finished as runners-up in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) championship. Florida Memorial’s consistent play and resilience position them well for a competitive tournament showing. 

Langston University Lions

Langston University, an HBCU powerhouse, continues its dominance with a third consecutive Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) tournament title, culminating in a 24-7 record. Their championship game showcased resilience, overcoming a late deficit to secure a 65-62 victory over Nelson University. Senior guard Mario McKinney’s clutch performance and Bryce Monroe’s tournament MVP honors highlight the team’s depth and experience. As the 4th seed in the Naismith Quadrant, Langston faces Saint Mary (Kan.), marking their return to the national tournament after a 12-year hiatus. Langston’s recent success and experience make them a team to watch in this year’s tournament. 

Stillman College Tigers

The Stillman Tigers return to the NAIA tournament for the first time since 2022, earning an at-large bid with an 18-11 record. Despite a semifinal loss in the HBCUAC tournament, their strong regular-season performance secured them the 16th seed in the Liston Quadrant. They are set to compete against LSU Alexandria, the Red River Athletic Conference champions with a formidable 28-2 record. This opening-round game presents a significant challenge for Stillman as they aim to advance further in the tournament. 

Xavier University of Louisiana Gold Rush

The Xavier Gold Rush continue their tradition of excellence with their fifth NAIA tournament appearance in six seasons, holding a 20-9 record. Despite an early exit in the Red River Athletic Conference tournament, their overall performance secured them the 14th seed in the Cramer Quadrant. They will face Ave Maria University (Fla.), the Sun Conference champions. Xavier’s experience and resilience make them a formidable opponent in the tournament. 

The inclusion of these five HBCU teams in the 2025 NAIA Men’s Basketball National Championship highlights the talent and competitiveness within HBCU athletics. As the tournament unfolds, these teams will not only represent their institutions but also the rich legacy of HBCU basketball on the national stage.

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The championship game saw Langston (24-7) battle through adversity, trailing 61-60 in the final two minutes. However, the Lions remained poised under pressure. Senior guard Mario McKinney delivered in the clutch with a go-ahead layup, and after crucial defensive stops, Bryce Monroe iced the game at the free-throw line, finishing with a team-high 17 points. Monroe’s performance throughout the tournament earned him SAC Tournament Most Valuable Player honors, while teammate Amoro Lado, who added 10 points in the final, secured a spot on the SAC All-Tournament Team.

This title continues a remarkable stretch for Langston, which has dominated the SAC since the 2022-2023 season. That year, the Lions made history by capturing their first SAC tournament crown, signaling a shift in the program’s trajectory. They followed that up in 2023-2024 with another conference title and an even deeper postseason run, advancing all the way to the NAIA national championship game. Though they fell just short of the ultimate prize, Langston’s efforts put HBCU basketball on full display at the highest level of NAIA competition.

Now, with another championship secured, Langston awaits its next challenge in the NAIA Men’s Basketball Championship. The Lions will learn their national tournament seeding on March 7, with their sights set on making another deep run and bringing an NAIA national title home to Langston University. Under Wright’s leadership, the program has become synonymous with sustained excellence, and with their third straight SAC title, the Lions continue to build on their legacy as one of the premier programs in HBCU basketball.

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MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. | Florida Memorial University has officially named Michael Jones head coach of its HBCU football program.

“I am grateful and excited to accept the position as head football coach of Florida Memorial University,” said Jones. “I personally want to thank President William McCormick and the FMU Administration for this tremendous opportunity.” 

The FMU Football Program Mission Statement: 

To cultivate an environment that empowers our student-athletes to become better men on and off the field as a direct result of being a part of the program will be the cornerstone of operations under Coach Jones’ tenure.

“What you can expect from our football team is a championship mindset on and off the field,” said Jones. “We will have a team of players that are tough both mentally and physically and that can overcome challenges presented before them. Our team will be built on faith and dedicated to providing service to the general public and the City of Miami Gardens. I am from Miami Gardens, and it’s my belief if you take care of the community, the community will take of  you. We will be a team that competes at a high-level and we will finish our goals in everything we do. We will be an exciting team to watch on Saturdays; we will play with passion, precision, and enthusiasm.”

Jones’ dedication to the team and exceptional coaching abilities have been recognized with many prestigious accolades, including the inaugural 2023 SUN Conference Assistant Coach of the Year, followed by a national award the next year as he was named 2024 AFCA NAIA Assistant Coach of the Year.

“Our staff will motivate and encourage all of our players to achieve a 3.0 grade point average. Our goal is to graduate every student-athlete in four years,” Jones explained. “We will be a family.”

Under his leadership, the program has achieved remarkable milestones and unseen successes. Having coached at Florida Memorial since 2020, serving as the offensive Coordinator and Assistant Head Coach since 2021, he helped lead the team to the most wins in modern history, guiding them to their first SUN Conference victory and their back-to-back SUN Conference Championship appearances in 23-24 and 24-25.

In addition, Jones helped significantly improve the team’s conference record from 0-5 in 2022 to an impressive 5-2 in 2023, culminating in the program’s first winning season with a record of 7-4. In 2024, FMU finished 4-2 in conference play, and 6-3-1 overall.

In 2023, the FMU Lions’ offense averaged 37 points per game, good for third in HBCU football. In 2024, the Lions’ offense averaged 38 points per game, good for second among in HBCU football.

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NEW ORLEANS — The Xavier University of Louisiana Rowing Club, which launched in September 2023 in a partnership with New Orleans Rowing Club (NORC), is thrilled to announce that XULA rowing is being elevated to varsity status for the 2025-26 academic year. This milestone breaks barriers as the first-ever varsity-level rowing program for men and women at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), bringing equality and access to the sport at the collegiate level.

NORC members Elizabeth Manley, Ph.D., professor of history and chair of Xavier’s history department, and Chloé Jobin, the club’s head of community outreach and diversity initiatives, lead the fast-growing sport at the HBCU.

Since its formation, the club has immediately attracted attention nationally from leaders in the rowing community. It has also earned sponsorships and donations from the sport’s national governing body, USRowing, Mr. Cooper’s A Most Beautiful Thing Inclusion Fund, and other major players in the sport, including Vespoli USA, JL Athletics and Concept2.

In a joint statement, Dr. Manley and Ms. Jobin said: “We could not be prouder to work with Xavier Rowing as we launch this historic debut as an official varsity sport. The passion and dedication of our athletes, combined with the support from esteemed national figures including Olympic rower David Banks, former Division I coach Kevin Harris, rowing luminary Arshay Cooper, and Brannon Johnson of BLJ Rowing, who have all visited to inspire and coach our students, truly exemplifies the spirit of Xavier. Launching this team of athletes onto the competitive national stage is not just about rowing — it’s about building a community, inspiring our students, and creating opportunities for growth both on and off the water.”

“The Xavier Rowing Club has offered me the opportunity to find a family outside of my Xavier family and get involved in a sport that allows me to be part of a team and also work on my own individual goals. . . [and] it allows us to shatter negative stereotypes and false perceptions,” said rower and junior political science major Kamryn Days.

Olympic rower David Banks said: “It’s truly impressive that the push to start the first co-ed HBCU varsity program was initiated internally by the Xavier students, staff, and faculty. It’s another testament to the outstanding students at Xavier; in that they seek out new challenges and opportunities and strive for excellence in whatever they do. It’s not easy being the first few to do something that may seem so very different and even daunting. But I’m confident and hopeful that these students will realize that this sport is theirs to make their own and that they will be an inspiration to many people to take their own new steps. I can’t wait.”

Arshay Cooper said: “For so many young people in our rowing community, Xavier has the potential to enhance their lives both academically and athletically and to provide an opportunity that has not existed before now. Excitement for the program has been building around the country as young men and women are realizing that they may soon be able to fulfill their dreams of attending an HBCU and rowing in college.”

Brannon Johnson, founder of the sport’s first black-owned and operated club, said: “Rowing can be a vehicle to a better life. It certainly was for me. But rowing can also be a vehicle for change. Xavier, like so many other HBCUs, is steeped in the rich tradition of creating change for its students. Xavier’s rowing team is a wonderful example of what that looks like now, and it’s vital that we lean in and support this program and the students at its center.”

Said Pat Kendrick, Xavier University of Louisiana’s executive director of athletics and recreation: “This is an exciting time for Xavier Athletics in welcoming the rowing team to our family. We are so proud of each and every one of these athletes and look forward to seeing them excel in their sport and bring the spirit of Xavier to the water and beyond.”

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MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. | Florida Memorial University is announcing a change in leadership within its HBCU football program. Coach Bobby Rome, II, who has been at the helm for three seasons, will not return next season as head football coach at FMU.

Under Coach Rome’s guidance, the Lions achieved a record of 15-15-1, including a record of 6-3-1 in his final season. With Rome at the helm, the FMU Lions rewrote the history books and set several school records.

His commitment to the sport and to the student-athletes of FMU has been unwavering, and his contributions have significantly shaped the football program for further success in the future.

A national search for a new head coach will begin immediately.

Bobby Rome released a public statement on his departure from the HBCU via Facebook, it reads:

Good Morning, Facebook Family,

Sometimes, change is inevitable. After three seasons here in South Florida, the administration at Florida Memorial University decided not to renew my contract and move in a different direction with the football program. This decision came as a surprise and has been a significant challenge for me and my family.

I want to express my gratitude to the student-athletes I had the privilege of working with—helping you grow, develop, and graduate has been an honor. I also extend my thanks to the coaching staff for the collaboration and camaraderie we shared during my time at the University.

As I reflect on this chapter, I’m ready for the next journey, wherever it may lead. Thank you all for your support.

Sincerely,

Coach Rome

About Bobby Rome

Bobby Rome II joined the FMU coaching staff as head football coach for Florida Memorial University in April of 2022.

Rome, a former collegiate and professional football player, has over a decade of head coaching experience, serving as head coach of the HBCU football programs at Central State University and Virginia University of Lynchburg before his stint at FMU.

A native of Norfolk, Virginia, Rome was a four-year starter at quarterback for Granby High School, throwing for more than 1,700 yards as a senior and leading Granby to the Eastern District title.

Rome went on to play for the Tar Heels at UNC from 2006 to 2009. After graduating from UNC in 2009, Rome spent time in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers, Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers. After his stint in the NFL, Rome was offered a playing opportunity for the Moscow Patriots in Russia, where he was the team’s star import and lone American player.

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The rankings are the first since Dec. 11, and the next rankings will be announced Jan. 29.  Defending national champion Dordt, 17-0 and winner of its last 26 games, is No. 1 for the fifth time in as many polls this season.

The Gold Nuggets are one of seven still-unbeaten NAIA women’s basketball teams — six of them are in the top 25.

The ranking is the HBCU squad’s highest since Jan. 19, 2016, when it was ranked 20th. This season XULA is 17-0 overall and 14-0 in the Red River Athletic Conference. Eleven of those wins have come by double-digits, with multiple wins of 20 points or better.

In addition to playing NAIA opponents, XUL has matched up against two Division I programs from inside its state — LSU and Grambling State. Both games were losses — but both were considered exhibitions. LSU beat Xavier 115-54 while Grambling State came away with a 69-55 win over its fellow HBCU  in New Orleans. LSU beat Grambling State 100-54 when the two teams matched up later.

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XULA never trailed, taking control early and building a 38-28 lead by halftime. Four starters scored in double figures, led by Kam Shelley with 16 points, including four 3-pointers. Joy Campbell added 15 points, while Zaria Harleaux and Lauren Banks each chipped in 14. Harleaux also recorded her second double-double of the season with 12 rebounds, three blocks, and three steals. Campbell added three assists and three steals, while Banks tallied three steals for the third consecutive game.

Jala Williams set a career high with six assists, and Sierra Headquist contributed nine points and eight rebounds. The Gold Nuggets’ defense stifled TAMUSA, holding the Jaguars to just 28 first-half points and maintaining a double-digit lead throughout the second half.

The Jaguars (12-5, 9-4), a first-year varsity program, were led by Evelyn Lorenzo with 14 points, six rebounds, and six assists, while Natalia Trevino posted a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds.

XULA’s historic start has made them the only basketball team in school history—male or female—to begin a season with 15 consecutive wins. The Gold Nuggets will look to extend their streak Saturday when they face Our Lady of the Lake, another RRAC opponent, at 1 p.m. CST.

This win further cements XULA’s standing as a premier program among HBCUs and in the NAIA.

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NEW ORLEANS — New Orleans-HBCU Xavier University of Louisiana produced a pair of second-half runs Saturday to clinch a 66-59 women’s basketball victory against Paul Quinn and remain unbeaten. The Gold Nuggets — 12-0 overall, 9-0 Red River Athletic Conference and ranked 25th in the NAIA — will break for Christmas, then return to the court on Jan. 2 at Texas College.

The next home game will be Jan. 7, also against Texas College. Paul Quinn (6-7, 5-4) led 32-29 in the 23rd minute after Kayla Webster’s two free throws. XULA then scored 12 consecutive points to take the lead for good. The Gold Nuggets led 45-41 through three quarters, then opened the final period with a 13-2 clinching run.

“It was a slow start, but we got better,” said Zaria Harleaux, who had 10 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, six steals and a block for XULA. “We figured out the adjustments we had to make and started executing better.” Joy Campbell and Kam Shelley scored 16 points apiece for XULA. Campbell had six rebounds, five assists, and seven steals, and the point guard made a season-best eight free throws. Shelley, the team’s leading scorer this season, has reached double-figure points in every game.

Cierra Taylor scored 15 points and Zaire Brown 13 for Paul Quinn. Adrianna Bolton grabbed 15 rebounds, 12 in the first half. The Lady Tigers’ Canai McPherson entered with a team-leading 16.8 points per game, but the senior guard did not start and was scoreless in three minutes. XULA shot a season-worst 30.8 percent from the floor but made 23 free throws, had 20 steals, and gained 32 turnovers, all season highs.

The Gold Nuggets extended their HBCU women’s basketball program record for most consecutive victories to start a season during the Title IX era. Overall it’s Xavier University of Louisiana’s longest win streak since 14 during the 2021-22 season.

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Key to the Lions’ success has been their shooting accuracy and rebounding dominance. With a team shooting percentage of nearly 50% from the field and 39% from beyond the arc, they are capitalizing on high-percentage shots and spreading the floor effectively. Latavious Mitchell and Mohamad Diallo have emerged as offensive leaders, contributing 17.3 and 15.0 points per game, respectively, while also being active on the boards with a combined 8.7 rebounds each per game. Calvin Payton’s 3-point shooting has also provided a boost, hitting 11 of his 26 attempts (42.3%).

Florida Memorial has embodied resilience and skill, especially on the boards. The Lions average a notable 49.0 rebounds per game, outpacing their opponents by 19.3 rebounds. This rebounding edge not only fuels their transition game but also limits second-chance opportunities for opponents, keeping the tempo in Florida Memorial’s favor.

The Lions’ teamwork is evident with an average of 19 assists per game, indicating strong ball movement and unselfish play—a trait many HBCUs take pride in fostering within their athletic programs. The early success of Florida Memorial demonstrates the potential for HBCU programs in the NAIA to compete at a high level while bringing excitement and pride to their communities. As they continue their season, the Lions aim to build on their strong start and establish themselves as a formidable presence in the NAIA.

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The poll placed College of Idaho in the second spot with five first-place votes, followed by Indiana Wesleyan in third. Freed-Hardeman University, the defending national champions from Tennessee, secured two first-place votes, entering the season ranked fourth. The top 25 poll also sees eight new teams making their debut, having not been ranked or receiving votes in the final poll of the previous season.

This poll is created by a panel of coaches representing various conferences and the Continental Athletic Conference. It holds no direct bearing on national championship selections but serves as a significant indicator of the season’s expectations. Points are awarded based on rankings from each coach’s vote, with the highest and lowest being removed to create a balanced outcome.

Langston University was 35-2 overall, and advanced to the NAIA National Championship game during the 2023-2024 season.

As an HBCU, Langston University continues to demonstrate excellence in NAIA sports, kicking off their season at the Abe Lemons Classic on November 1, where they will face Mission University and the Master’s University. Their continued prominence serves as a reminder of the competitive presence of HBCUs in national basketball.

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“On behalf of the entire FMU football family, we want to extend our deepest condolences to you during this incredibly difficult time,” the account posted on Instagram. “Marcus was more than just an athlete to us; he was a cherished member of our team and community, whose presence made an impact on everyone around him. His dedication, spirit, and kindness will always be remembered, and though he may no longer be with us physically, he will forever remain in our hearts and memories. We will miss him greatly on and off the field. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. If there is anything we can do to support you during this time, don’t hesitate to reach out.”

Florida Memorial University is an HBCU located in Miami Gardens. It is one of the most recent additions to HBCU football, starting its program in 2020.

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LANGSTON — Langston University and the Langston University Department of Athletics are shocked and saddened to announce that assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Darryl Mason passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024. Mason was 63.

“The loss of Coach (Darryl) Mason has left a huge hole in the hearts of his student-athletes, coaching staff, campus, and the football community,” Langston University Director of Athletics Donnita Rogers said. “His passion for the game, work ethic, loyalty, sense of humor and love for Langston University will always be treasured and a part of his legacy.”

“Coach (Darryl) Mason, you will forever be loved and missed. I couldn’t be prouder to have had you by my side, both on and off the field,” Langston University head football coach Quinton Morgan said. “Your impact on our lives is immeasurable, and your legacy will continue to inspire us all. “

Mason served as offensive coordinator for the Lions football program twice, first serving from 2013 to 2015 before returning to the Lions prior to the 2018 season. In his first season back as offensive coordinator, Mason directed an offense that placed him in the top 10 in several statistical categories which included total offense (third), pass offense per game (fifth), scoring offense per game (seventh), and total pass offense (eighth).

In his second tenure, the Lions had a win-loss total of 38-18 since 2018. In that same time frame, Mason helped produce two Associated Press All-American selections, two AFCA All-American selections, two NAIA Football All-America selections, two Sooner Athletic Conference players of the year, one SAC athlete of the year, 12 SAC first-team selections, 13 SAC second-team selections, and 17 SAC honorable mention selections.

Mason’s coaching career spanned nearly four decades which included coaching stops at Minnesota, Southwest Missouri State, Weber State, Northwestern State, UNLV, Idaho State, East Tennessee State, Cheyney (Pa.), UL-Monroe, Tulane, the University of Louisiana-Lafayette, Bacone College and Arkansas Baptist.

Additionally, Mason was a three-year starter at tight end for Hall of Fame coach Lou Holtz at Arkansas from 1978-1981. The Arkansas Razorbacks made four straight bowl appearances during his career, including the 1979 Fiesta and 1980 Sugar Bowls. He also served as captain of the Arkansas team during his senior year, won the Gordon Campbell Senior Spirit Award, and was named All-Southwest Conference.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse W. Mason, Sr, and Levada Levon Parker Mason. He leaves to cherish his memory his sister Patricia Mason, Chicago, Illinois, his brothers Jesse Mason (Dr. Gail Reede Jones) of Little Rock, Arkansas, Rev. C. Vernon Mason (Thelma) of New York, New York, Michael D. Mason (Sarah), Little Rock, Arkansas.  His Children Derrick Deshaun Mason (Cara), Molly Galloway, and Grandchildren Julian, Myles, and Mason. and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends. Special Relationship with Denise Walker and children of Harvey, Louisiana Daughter Delichia Gourgis and Son Alex Gourgis III Grandchildren: Danasia, Da’sani, DyNisty, Alex IV, and Daliyah Louis.

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ARLINGTON, Texas — Huston-Tillotson University (a private HBCU in Austin, Texas) student-athlete Zech Robichaux was one of five college students selected for the Charley Pride MLB Fellowship Program Class of 2024, the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation announced.
 
Robichaux, a senior from San Antonio, Texas, concluded his HBCU baseball career with the Rams in 2024. A three-year letter winner with the Rams, he hit .311 with four home runs and 28 RBIs during the 2024 season.
 
In its fourth year, the Charley Pride Fellowship Program will again see five college students from diverse backgrounds spend their summer working in the Texas Rangers front office for the unique internship.
 
Created in honor of the late country music star and close friend of the Texas Rangers organization, Charley Pride, the program aims to build a launching pad for students from diverse backgrounds looking to gain experience in a Major League Baseball front office.

 
The 2024 Charley Pride Fellows were selected after an extensive application and interview process by the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation Fellowship Selection Committee. They began their paid internships at Globe Life Field on Tuesday, May 28, with the program concluding on Friday, August 2.
 
The Foundation will hire, train, and support the five fellows as they rotate through three front-office departments. The students will gain valuable skills during the 10-week program to equip them in their professional endeavors.
 
The Class of 2024 has identified baseball operations, business analytics, business partnerships, legal, marketing, REV Entertainment, and the Texas Rangers Baseball Foundation as the departments in which they will rotate while employed this summer.
 
Roland Parrish, a prominent Dallas businessman and philanthropist, and his Parrish Charitable Foundation are partnering with the Rangers Foundation in the Charley Pride Fellowship Program for the fourth consecutive year.
 
Over the first three years of the MLB fellowship program, 15 individuals have participated, receiving extensive experience in the baseball and business departments of the Rangers’ organization.

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The only caveat is that he won’t be chasing an NCAA national title. Langston University, a public land-grant HBCU in Langston, Oklahoma plays its basketball in NAIA, a college athletics governing body that operates separately from the NCAA.

The Langston University Lions have been one of the top NAIA teams in the nation in recent years, making it to the national championship game last season with a 35-1 overall record.

Transitioning from Hoodie Rio, the viral high school basketball star to Mario McKinney Jr., the college basketball player hasn’t been easy.

By the start of his senior year of high school Mario McKinney Jr. was a bonafide YouTube basketball star, with his Hoodie Rio BallisLife junior season mixtape taking social media by storm in 2018.

McKinney continued to show his star power with an electrifying senior season averaging 25 points and 7.5 rebounds during the state semifinal and championship games where he helped lead Vashon High School to back-to-back-to-back Missouri state championships in 2017, 2018, and 2019. McKinney was tabbed the top player in Missouri by both ESPN and 247Sports, where he was rated as a four-star recruit and ranked 19th nationally at the point guard position and 125th overall in the 2019 class.

Mario McKinney Jr. signed with the University of Missouri where he was expected to make an immediate impact, but only saw action in four games at Missouri averaging 3.3 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 0.5 assists in 9.3 minutes per game.

He then transferred to John A. Logan College, a junior college in Carterville, Illinois where he showed he still had the talent that made him a viral high school hoops star. He averaged 18.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.7 steals in nine games, including a 52-point performance on 17-of-23 shooting against Three Rivers Community College, and just like that, Hoodie Rio was back.

“The best mid-majors in the country and a bunch of high majors called and have been watching film on him,” John A. Logan College assistant coach John Clancy told 24/7 Sports. “A lot of schools are tracking him right now and showing significant interest. Maryland and St. Johns are probably showing the most interest and Oregon has been early on him. Georgia, South Florida, Central Florida, Texas A&M, TCU, Pittsburgh, Ole Miss, and a ton of great mid-majors have also been calling and showing interest so far.”

McKinney was determined to show he could play point guard at the Division I level, telling Dushawn London of 24/7 sports that, “I’m running strictly the one and I think it’s going to help me when I get back to D1, ” McKinney said. “Coaches are probably going to look at me as a combo guard or strictly a one so when I do get to the next level it’s going to be something I have to keep developing. I haven’t really been able to showcase my skills but I think I’m ready.”

McKinney’s next stop was New Mexico State, where lack of playing time resulted in another lackluster season at the D1 level. After averaging 3.8 points in 31 games with 5 starts, Mario McKinney Jr. was back in the transfer portal looking for a place to prove himself.

Heading into the 2022-2023 season, Mario McKinney Jr was three years removed from the Hoodie Rio era and enrolled at the University of Texas El-Paso where he found success coming off the bench for the Miners.

McKinney was the top reserve for UTEP, playing in 20 games and ranking fourth on the squad in scoring with 8.9 ppg including a career-high 22 points against his former New Mexico State team.

Now, Mario McKinney Jr. is headed to an HBCU. One that has put together an impressive run under head coach Chris Wright, a coach who has made a reputation for having success at the NAIA level with players who have struggled at the Division 1 level of college basketball.

Langston University appeared in its first NAIA National Championship game in the 2023-2024 season. Head coach Chris Wright had already led another HBCU, Talladega College to the 2022 title game before taking the job at Langston the following season. Transforming the 3-win HBCU basketball program instantly with a  61-4 win-loss record and a 41-3 mark in conference play over his first two seasons.

“The former 4 star recruit that signed at Missouri will be as talented a player as there is in the country! He will be able to score at a high clip and can impact the game in a variety of ways! I can’t wait to get this guy on the court. #LsUp.” Tweeted Coach Wright with the announcement of the McKinney signing. This signals that Mario McKinney Jr. might get the playing time and shot attempts he needs to be able to return to that Hoodie Rio form that took over the internet almost six years ago.

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In 2018, the board of trustees of Edward Waters College made a bold move.  They unanimously chose a 37-year-old to lead the school.  While young in age, his experience was just what the doctor ordered for the small AME school on the north side of Jacksonville, Fla. New president Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr. came in with experience in the hot key issues for HBCUs which are retention and fundraising.

His career is littered with experience from HBCUs, with varied levels of involvement.  He is a graduate of Albany State University, where he attained his undergraduate degree.  He is also a graduate of the University of Georgia where he earned his juris doctorate.  From there he became board certified in the state of Georgia.

Faison has a vast array of experience at HBCUs

His leadership journey started at Mississippi Valley State University, as Chief of Staff and later Vice President for Institutional Advancement and then to Virginia Union University as Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs, and finally to Tuskegee as General Counsel and Vice President for External Affairs before being named President at Edward Waters in 2018.

He came to Edward Waters with a vision…to elevate the university through a combination of solid academic processes and athletics success.

“When we came to the institution in 2018, we began to chart our path comprehensively as an institution,” said Faison.  “From our perspective and conversations with our board and community, we felt we really had a potential niche in utilizing athletics to grow the brand of our institution to increase enrollment; using those revenues to help launch additional academic programs and grow the overall depth and breadth of the institution.”

EWU moved from NAIA to NCAA D-II in 2021

Things began to change in short order.  Led by Faison, Edward Waters would announce in 2021 that EWU was provisionally moving up to NCAA D-II in athletics.  It was the first time in the 155-year history of the school that it had participated at the NCAA level.  On the same day of the public announcement, it was revealed that the Tigers would rejoin the SIAC.  They were members previously in the conference from 1930-1935, before the conference migrated to D-II status in the NCAA.

In a grand announcement, the purple and orange had regained relevance on a national scale like never before.  Not discounting any of the successes of the school previously, but this was a major step into growth for both the athletic department and the university.

Long seen as the little school in Jacksonville, it began to stretch its wings and tiers began to be climbed.  A major renovation to the school’s on-campus football facility was a big piece of the turning point.  The turf field, new grandstands, new press box, and pristine president’s box where he entertains donors during football games grew an exciting game day environment.

In 2021, Faison made the choice to bring in Toriano Morgan to lead the Tiger football team.  Morgan would add well-known veteran coach Brian Jenkins to his staff as offensive coordinator.  The team had struggled mightily even on the NAIA level.  Being reintroduced to the SIAC and introduced to Division-II was a smooth transition for Morgan and his staff.

Academics-wise, the university made a leap in 2021 as well.  Edward Waters College became Edward Waters University.  It was a galactic leap for the school.  Since then, the school’s popularity has skyrocketed.  EWU is now the fastest-growing HBCU in the state of Florida and one of the fastest growing in the country.

Edward Waters football has been steadily building

In 2021 the Tiger football team would finish at 4-7, going 3-7 in conference play.  In 2022 the team saw marginal improvement and ended the season at 5-6, but more importantly 4-4 in SIAC play.  This was the indicator that the program was moving forward.  In 2023, the team had its first winning season in quite some time, going 6-4 for the season and 5-3 in SIAC play.  The two signature wins for the team in 2023 were the upset of Tuskegee at “The Shed” for its homecoming and an exciting last-play defeat of eventual SIAC runners-up Albany State in Jacksonville.

2024 could be a big year for EWU as its three-year probationary status as a member of the SIAC is to be evaluated.  It could result in the dropping of the provisional membership, adding them as a fully-authorized member in one of the big four HBCU conferences.  With the success of the programs and the growth in the image of the school, barring something unforeseen they are expected to be fully admitted.

Not only are the football facilities improving, the school has made a marked investment into its student-athletes.  Additionally, Faison is exceptionally proud of his director of athletics, whom he credits with forging the department forward.  

“I truly believe there has to be a symbiotic synergy between the president and the athletic director.  I selfishly believe I have the best associate vice president and director of athletics in the country here in Dr. Ivana Rich.  The job that she has done to come in and continue this vision…she has come and not only fit in, but taken things to a higher level,” Faison said.

The facilities upgrades at the school include a dedicated student-athlete academic center and a health and wellness center that has expanded the weight room, medical treatment apparatus, and contains a nutrition center.  Edward Waters is certainly in unchartered territory at the time and judging from Faison’s vision and drive, this is just the beginning.

“As we looked around geographically, we’re sitting right in the footprint within a five-hour radius of 90-percent of the institutions that are in the SIAC,” Faison said.  “We were in a good conference in the GCAC, but you didn’t get the same kind of HBCU experience that our students wanted, our alumni wanted, our city wanted.  It made a lot of sense for us, when you’ve got Savannah (GA) an hour-and-a-half away…we needed to make sure that our brand became synonymous with the brands of those institutions (in the SIAC).”  

HBCU Gameday is producing a special for each week in June called “Florida’s Four HBCUs,” where we sit down with each HBCU president in the state of Florida (B-CU, Edward Waters, Florida A&M, and Florida Memorial). Please be on the lookout for those broadcasts as you will hear more of the story from EWU President Dr. A. Zachary Faison.

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“Funny how division I schools are telling guys that we are both recruiting “Why would want to go to an NAIA, you are too good to go there,” Wright tweeted on Twitter/X. “To those schools… Since we are just an NAIA put us on your schedule. We will come play for no money.”

That’s a pretty bold proclamation, as an NAIA school playing a Division I school would usually be considered a money game – one in which the higher division program pays the lower division program a guarantee to come play them on the road. 

Wright’s recent success at the NAIA level – first with Talladega College and now with Langston University – demonstrates that he knows how to build a program. He took both HBCU programs to national championships – a major accomplishment given the fact that LU was a 3-win team the season before Wright arrived fresh out of Talladega. His overall record the last three seasons is 98-11.

The gauntlet has been thrown down. The question now is whether or not any Division I program will take Wright up on his offer.

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First reported by Dennis Dodd of CBS Sports, the NAIA is believed to be the first national college governing body to ban transgender athletes with a mandate stating that athletes must compete according to assigned sex at birth.

The NAIA’s Council of Presidents surveyed in December of 2023 indicated widespread support for the move, and on Monday, April 8th, 2024, the council voted 25-0 to approve the policy.

“The task force spent nearly two years reviewing research, meeting with experts to better understand potential policy challenges, and obtaining feedback from multiple membership groups,” said NAIA Council of Presidents chair and St. Ambrose University president Amy Novak. “With this policy, the NAIA has made its best effort to allow for the inclusion of transgender athletes in any way which does not impact the competitive fairness of women’s sports. Our priority is to protect the integrity of women’s athletics and allow them equal opportunity to succeed.” she continued in the CBS Sports article.

The NAIA is a national athletic governing body for 249 mostly small, private colleges that do not participate in NCAA competition.

In 1953, the NAIA became the first collegiate athletics association to invite historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) into membership. Today, 22 of the 105 institutions designated as HBCU are members of the NAIA.

NAIA HBCUS

• Arkansas Baptist College
• Dillard University (La.)
• Fisk University (Tenn.)
• Florida Memorial University
• Harris-Stowe State University (Mo.)
• Huston-Tillotson University (Texas)
• Jarvis Christian University 
• Langston University (Okla.)
• Morris College (S.C.)
• Oakwood University
• Philander Smith College (Ark.)
• Rust College (Miss.)
• Southern University at New Orleans
• Stillman College (Ala.)
• Talladega College (Ala.)
• Texas College
• Tougaloo College (Miss.)
• University of the Virgin Islands
• Voorhees College (S.C.)
• Wilberforce University (Ohio)
• Wiley College (Texas)
• Xavier University of Louisiana

“We know there are a lot of different opinions out there,” NAIA president Jim Carr told CBS Sports. “For us, we believed our first responsibility was to create fairness and competition in the NAIA. … We also think it aligns with the reasons Title IX was created. You’re allowed to have separate but equal opportunities for women to compete.”

The new NAIA policy also blocks student-athletes who were assigned female but have begun masculinizing hormone therapy to transition to women but also states that All NAIA athletes who are no longer eligible for women’s competition can still participate in men’s sports.

“It’s important to know that the male sports are open to anyone,” Carr told CBS Sports.

Below is the complete policy, as released by NAIA on Monday:

Student-athletes may participate in NAIA competition in accordance with the following conditions:


A. Participation by students in sports designated as male by the NAIA:
All eligible NAIA student-athletes may participate in NAIA-sponsored male sports.


B. Participation by students in sports designated as female by the NAIA:
Only NAIA student-athletes whose biological sex is female may participate in NAIA-sponsored female sports. They may participate under the following conditions:

1. A student who has not begun any masculinizing hormone therapy may participate without limitation.
2. A student who has begun masculinizing hormone therapy may participate in:
   
   a. All activities that are internal to the institution (does not include external competition), including workouts, practices, and team activities. Such participation is at the discretion of the NAIA member institution where the student is enrolled; and

   
   b. External competition that is not a countable contest as defined by the NAIA (per NAC Policy Article XXV, Section A, Item 12). Such participation is at the discretion of the NAIA member institution where the student is enrolled.


An NAIA institution that has a student-athlete who has begun masculinizing hormone therapy must notify the NAIA national office. The national office will take the necessary steps to provide appropriate privacy protections.


This policy will be subject to review in light of any legal, scientific, or medical developments.

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The Yotes entered tonight’s matchup at 32-3, boasting four players in double figures in Samaje Morgan (14.3 ppg), Johnny Radford (12.2 ppg), Drew Wyman (11.5 ppg) and Jake O’Neil (10.1 ppg) but the Lions held College of Idaho to 35 percent (19-of-53) from the field and three-of-17 from three-point range. Langston also held the Yotes to its fewest points of the season, their fewest prior to that was 64 points on December 30th in a win over Eastern Oregon.

“They’re (College of Idaho) extremely well-coached and they stretch you defensively with how they shoot the three,” head coach Chris Wright noted of College of Idaho. “You add in a dynamic point guard and they’re tough to cover. I thought our guy’s ability to stay with the game plan, to believe in what we were doing, to get big stops when we needed them was huge for us.”

Senior guard D’Monte Brown said the team prides itself on being the tougher team, day in and day out.

“We’ve always been the toughest team, we started this back in August, our practices are hard, and Coach (Wright) stays on us to be prepared for this moment,” Brown said. “They (College of Idaho) came out to play, it was close in the first half, but we knew we were the better team, we just had to show it.”

Tied at 52-52 with 44 seconds left, Anthony Roy hit Jay Allen-Tovar for layup inside to put Langston in front 54-52 with 29 seconds left.

Langston broke the game open on the ensuing offensive possession when Roy batted away a loose ball towards G’Quavious Lennox, who in turn lobbed it to Cortez Mosley for a breakaway slam dunk to put the Lions ahead for good.

Mosley led Langston in scoring with 14 points on six-of-14 shooting and Brown chipped in 12 on five-of-seven shooting. Collectively, Langston hit 38 percent (23-of-60) from the field and outscored College of Idaho 16-11 in bench points, 32-26 in points in the paint and 11-9 in points off turnovers.

While Langston University will be making their first appearance in the NAIA National Championship game, it will be the second title game appearance for head coach Chris Wright. Wright led Talladega (Ala.) to the 2022 title game where they fell 71-56 to Loyola (La.). The second-year head coach noted what he’s learned as a coach and leader since then.

“Since getting to Kansas City, I’ve enjoyed this experience so much more than I did the first time with Talladega,” Wright said. “I was miserable to be honest, I was happy to win but I didn’t enjoy it, I survived it. When I was hired here, (former Langston University president) Dr. (Kent J.) Smith made me promise that if we ever went on a run like that at Langston that I would enjoy it. When we won the second-round game at our place I said I’m going to enjoy whatever happens the rest of the way.”

The Lions improve to 35-1 overall and advance to the NAIA National Championship game on Tuesday night, March 26, in Municipal Auditorium. Langston University faces Freed-Hardeman (Tenn.) (31-4) who advanced to the championship by way of defeating Grace (Ind.) 86-81 on Monday night.

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The Wildcats (29-6) entered their quarterfinal matchup boasting four players that averaged double figures in Javan Buchanan (20.5 ppg), Nathan Childress (14.5 ppg), Griffin Kliewer (14.5 ppg) and Caedmon Bontrager (13.9 ppg) while averaging 90.5 points per game as team. However, the Lion’s patented defense was on the display from the outset as they held the Wildcats to 33 percent (10-of-30) shooting in the first half while building a 37-25 halftime lead.

The defensive intensity continued in the second half as Langston University held Indiana Wesleyan to 34 percent (eight-of-23) after halftime. The Lions held the quartet of double-digit scorers from Indiana Wesleyan to a combined 12-of-41 which included a one-for-eight mark from three-point range.

“They’re a great offensive team and for us to disrupt what they wanted to do I thought was really impressive,” head coach Chris Wright said. “I’m proud of our guys, I thought they followed the game plan extremely well. We were locked in and to do that to a team that averages over 90 points a game says a lot about the character of our guys.”

“Our identity is defense and rebounding,” senior forward Cortez Mosley said. “We just knew if we defended and rebounded, we would be okay. We just pride ourselves on our defense and being the tougher team because at the end of the day the tougher team wins.”

Langston University built a 15-point lead at 49-34 at the 9:32 mark following a three-pointer by G’Quavious Lennox and free throws from Majok Kuath. The Lions led by as much as 17 in the second half, sealing the quarterfinal victory at 61-48.

Mosley led Langston in scoring with 15 points on five-of-12 shooting with six boards; Anthony Roy added 13 on five-of-13 shooting including three three-pointers. On the night the Lions hit 37 percent (20-of-53) overall and finished 16-of-21 from three throw line while holding IWU to 34 percent (18-of-53) overall and three-of-12 from three-point range.

Langston held Indiana Wesleyan to the lowest point total of the season with 48 points. Their previous low was 71 points back on January 31st versus Grace (Ind.).

Wright said getting the Langston University men’s basketball program to this point is part of the vision that was established when he was hired in April 2022.

“It’s very humbling, when (former Langston University president) Dr. (Kent J.) Smith, (Langston University Director of Athletics) Donnita Rogers and the senior leadership hired me this was their vision,” Wright noted. “So many people deserve the credit for this but it’s very humbling to be a part of. I feel tremendously blessed to be able to get our program to this point.”

The Lions improve to 34-1 overall and advances to the NAIA Fab Four on Monday night, March 25, in Municipal Auditorium. Langston squares off against the College of Idaho Yotes (32-3) who advanced to the Fab Four by way of defeating Morningside 73-56 on Saturday night.

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LANGSTON — Anthony Roy scored 23 points to lead No. 1 seed Langston University past ninth-seeded Ave Maria (Fla.) 91-61 on Saturday night at the C.F. Gayles Field House. The top-seeded Lions advance to the NAIA Round of 16 for the second straight year and will play No. 12 seed LSU-Shreveport on Friday, March 22 at 1 p.m.

“Ave Maria is a very good team and they were a tough matchup for us,” Langston University head coach Chris Wright noted. “We got down nine in the first half and our guys didn’t panic. We stayed the course and found a way to continue to get stops in the second half.”

Tied at 48-48 in the second half, Langston went on a 19-5 scoring run to seize control at 67-53 at the 8:10 mark. Ave Maria trimmed Langston’s lead to 13 points with 6:42 left when the Lions defense turned up the heat by not allowing another point from the Gyrenes until the 1:44 mark with Langston ahead 84-57.

Roy finished with 23 on nine-of-16 shooting and D’Monte Brown added 12 points and 11 boards. Cortez Mosley and Toru Dean rounded out the double-digit scorers with 11 and 10 points apiece.

Collectively, Langston hit 50 percent (35-of-70) from the field and held Ave Maria to 40 percent (20-of-50) shooting on the night. The Lions outscored the Gyrenes 19-0 on points off turnovers, 16-4 in second chance points, 32-17 in bench points and 48-24 in points in the paint.

“It’s always special to make it to Kansas City,” Wright said. “I’m excited for our guys and look forward to continue to play for a national championship.”

Langston (32-1) advances to the NAIA Round of 16 and faces No. 12 seed LSU-Shreveport on Friday, March 22. Game time is set for 1 p.m. at Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City, Mo.

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The 2024 NAIA Tournament brackets are out and several HBCUs are amongst the field.

Langston University (30-1 overall) got the number one seed in the Duer Quadrant. The back-to-back SAC champions will take on no. 16 seed Bellevue (Neb.) as the host team.

Located in the same bracket is Tougaloo (MS) College. The regular season champion of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference (GCAC) picked up a no. 10 seed after being upset in its conference tournament. It will face off against no. 7 seed Tennessee Southern in Marion, IN.

Florida Memorial University picked up a No. 2 seed in the Naismith Bracket. The Sun Conference champion will take on no. 15 Evangel of Missouri.

Texas College picked up a no. 9 seed in the Cramer Quadrant. It will face off against no. 8 Point Park (PA) in Henderson, Tennessee. 

Philander Smith picked up a no. 15 seed after winning the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference title. It will take on Cumberlands, the no. 2 seed and the host team in the first and second rounds. 

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“MACU deserves a lot of credit for defending us the way they did,” Langston University head coach and reigning SAC Coach of the Year Chris Wright said. “They were tough, physical, and made every shot difficult. This was a national tournament type of game; we needed this tonight. I’m proud of our guys for finding a way to make enough plays down the stretch to win this one.”

It was tough sledding in the opening half with both offenses gaining no clear advantage. The Lions led 15-14 at halftime but hit only 23 percent (seven-of-30) while halting the MACU offense to 19 percent (four-of-21) from the field.

Lions were able to get a bit of breathing room, helped by two three-pointers from Roy and a jumper by Cortez Mosley to put Langston up 33-26 at the 10:40 mark in the second half. MACU’s Seth Hurd cut the deficit to five at 41-36 with 6:24 remaining but the Evangels never got any closer.

Langston University picks up its second straight SAC tournament championship to pair with its second straight SAC regular season championship they clinched back on February 15th. In addition to the conference championships, the wins have also stacked up for the Lions and Wright.

Since taking the helm of the Langston men’s basketball program, Wright holds a 61-4 win-loss record and a 41-3 mark in conference play. Tuesday’s win over MACU also gave Wright a 5-0 record at Langston vs the Evangels.

Roy finished with 25 points on nine-of-19 shooting in 35 minutes of action. This is the 13th time this season the SAC Player of the Year has scored over 20 points in a contest. Toru Dean and Majok Kuath tied for second on the team in scoring with seven points apiece.

Langston University (30-1) now awaits their tournament draw in the NAIA Men’s Basketball Championship Opening Round which will be unveiled on March 7 at 6 p.m. by the NAIA on their YouTube Channel. The Lions gained an automatic bid to the opening round by way of winning the SAC regular season title and will not have to travel far as they were selected as one of the 16 host sites for the NAIA Men’s Basketball First and Second Rounds which starts Saturday, March 15.

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The Lions were led by first-team All-SUN selection Latavious Mitchell, who finished with a team-high 12 points to go along with eight rebounds before fouling out of the contest. FMU forward Felix Uadiale added 11 points and six boards for the Lions.

Florida Memorial guard Evan Busby generated 10 points on 3-of-5 shooting from the field, including 2-of-3 from downtown. Busby added four rebounds, two steals, and one assist while teammates Derrius Ward and Chanze Cruesoe both produced 10 points apiece. Ward was named second-team All-SUN while Busby was named 2024 SUN Men’s Basketball Championship Game MVP.

As a team, FMU generated 26 points off turnovers while scoring 38 points in the paint, dominating the interior.

The Lions now await the NAIA regional selections, which are set to be released next week.

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Cortez Mosley of Langston University earned the Defensive Player of the Year while Yorgo Golesis from Oklahoma City was named the conference Freshman of the Year. In addition to earning the league Player of the Year award, Roy was also named this year’s Newcomer of the Year while Eddie Smith of Mid-America Christian earned the Sixth Man of the Year Honor with Noah Boling of Southwestern Assemblies of God garnering the conference Sportsmanship Award.
 
Roy led Langston in his junior season by scoring 18.6 points per game and shooting 47 percent from the field during the year. Roy also led the conference in three-point shooting percentage by going 42 percent from beyond the arc.
 
Mosley was also a key member of the Lions starting lineup as he averaged four defensive rebounds per game in helping Langston to a league-high 59.2 points allowed per game average.
 
Golesis had an outstanding freshman season for the Stars by averaging 10.3 points per game and was eighth in the conference with 3.4 assists per contest.
 
Smith helped MACU to the No. 2 seed in the upcoming conference tournament by averaging 11 points per contest, 3.3 rebounds per game, and 2.7 assists per contest.
 
Boling earned the conference Sportsmanship Award from the coaches as he was a great example of how to conduct himself on the court during the season.
 
Wright took home his second straight Coach of the Year Award after going 27-1 this season and 21-1 in conference play. He led the Lions to a high-powered offense that scored 82.5 points per game and a defense that allowed only 59.2 points per contest.
 
The complete list of 2024 Sooner Athletic Conference postseason honorees can be found below:
 
2024 Sooner Athletic Conference Men’s Basketball Postseason Awards
 
SAC Player of the Year — Anthony Roy, LU
Defensive Player of the Year — Cortez Mosley, LU
Freshman of the Year — Yorgo Golesis, OCU
Newcomer of the Year — Anthony Roy, LU
Sixth Man of the Year — Eddie Smith, MACU
Sportsmanship Award — Noah Boling, SAGU
Coach of the Year — Chris Wright, LU
 
All-Sooner Athletic First Team
Anthony Roy, LU
C.J. Hall, SAGU
Toru Dean, LU
Seth Hurd, MACU
Reggie Quezada, USAO
 
All-Sooner Athletic Second Team
Cortland Blake, SAGU
D’Michael Bellfield, WBU
Cortez Mosley, LU
Mikel Henderson, MACU
Drew Miller, JBU
 
All-Sooner Athletic Third Team
Tahjae Hill, WBU
Chris Whitten, CCC
Kristian Lafayette, Tex Wes
Adetokumbo Bakare, Tex Wes
D’Monte Brown, LU
 
Honorable Mention
DeAngelo Adkins, MACU
Cade Allen, USAO
J.J. Boling, SAGU
Noah Boling, SAGU
Quinton Coleman, WBU
Jaden Harrel, USAO
Avery Jackson OCU
Brandon Jackson, OCU
Vernon Johnson, UNTD
Jasiah Lewis, MACU
Ron Mitchell, LU
Ron Moore, SCU
Meikkel Murray, WBU
Malachi Reeves, JBU
Fred Robinson, OPSU
Eddie Smith, MACU
 
Sooner Athletic All-Freshman Team
Yorgo Golesis, OCU
Michal Wooldridge, SCU
Trae Oetting. JBU
Clayton Jewell, OCU
Amaree Brown, OPSU
 
Sooner Athletic All-Defensive Team
Cortez Mosley, LU
DeAngelo Adkins, MACU
Jay Allen Tovar, LU
J.J. Boling, SAGU
Tahjae Hill, WBU

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Langston built a 35-21 halftime advantage after hitting 43 percent (13-of-30) from the field and holding the Aggies offense to 29 percent shooting (seven-of-24). The Lions did not let up in the second half, leading by as many as 32 in the second en route to a 76-48 victory. 

The Lions improve to 25-1 overall and 19-1 in the Sooner Athletic Conference standings. Langston has two regular season games remaining before the start of the SAC Men’s Basketball championship tournament on Thursday, Feb. 29. 

In addition to clinching the title, Langston has a solid shot of going to the top of NAIA rankings. No. 1 Grace (Ind.) suffered its first loss of the season last week.

Langston clinched the SAC regular season title for the second straight year on Thursday, Feb. 15 by defeating Wayland Baptist 70-65.

Cortez Mosley led the way with a season-high 27 points and 11 boards; D’Monte Brown and Michael Wright also tallied double figures with 13 points apiece.

Langston University (25-1, 19-1 SAC) returns to action next Thursday at Texas Wesleyan. Game time is set for 8 p.m.

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Another Division I transfer, former Northwestern State forward Major Kuath, put up 13 points in the win. Several other Division I transfers, as well as former JUCO players, fill out Langston’s roster.

Langston is led by Chris Wright, who is one of the better kept secrets in college basketball. Wright led Talladega to a national championship berth two years ago. He then headed west to take over a program that was 1-27. The team went 31-3 last season, becoming the first ever HBCU to win the Sooner Athletic Conference regular season crown along with capturing the SAC Conference Tournament Championship. The Lions advanced to the NAIA Sweet 16 in Kansas City before falling to Georgetown College.

So far the team has been just as great this season as it will look to repeat as Sooner Athletic Conference champions and hope to become the first HBCU to win a national title since Virginia Union did it at the NCAA Division II level in 2005. 

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Tamar Braxton, Saucy Santana, Angela “Blac Chyna” White, Karlous Miller of 85 South, Claudia Jordan, and Nick “Swaggy P” Young have been announced as the cast for College Hill Celebrity Edition Season III. 

“I am thrilled that Xavier University of Louisiana will host BET+’s COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION,” XULA President Reynold Verret said in a statement. “As we prepare to celebrate Xavier’s first century of service, this collaboration not only showcases our rich history as the nation’s only Black and Catholic institution but also amplifies our commitment to academic excellence and dedication to service and social justice. We welcome this extraordinary opportunity for our students to share their stories and aspirations on a national stage, to highlight the unique spirit that is Xavier. As we celebrate Xavier’s centennial, the collaboration with BET shares our story, reinforces Xavier’s place in U.S. education and celebrates a century of service, education, and accomplishment, promoting a more humane and just society for all.”

College Hill initially began in the mid-2000s as a reality show based around students at HBCUs. The new format has had celebrities attending Texas Southern and Alabama State previously.

“Edmonds Entertainment, in conjunction with This Way Out Media, is thrilled to be returning to season threre of our COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION franchise on BET+ with a very fun, bold, and dynamic cast who will be navigating their collegiate journey at Xavier University of Louisiana while exploring the rich culture, history, and flavor of New Orleans,” said Tracey Edmonds, CEO and President of Edmonds Entertainment. “We are honored to be partnered with Xavier, one of the most effective teaching institutions in the country, and we know this will be a one-of-a-kind learning journey for our cast.”

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A rumbling of murmurs rolled through the crowd once the announcement that the postponement of the announcement of the winners rolled through the loudspeakers. 

North Carolina A&T’s Blue and Gold Marching Machine, vying for the Division I title against Jackson State’s Sonic Boom of the South, issued what appeared to be a response to the ruling. The band had already had its “Fifth Quarter” stands performance after the official competition, and was told to load onto its busses. Instead, the BGMM broke out into another song, provoking the Sonic Boom to prepare an impromptu response of its own.

Officials quickly shut that down, reiterating that the bands needed to get to their busses as instructed and that the next band would be docked 30 points on their performance.

“Don’t even think about it,” barked Don Roberts, one of the organizers of the ESPN Band of the Year and a long-time fixture in the Atlanta band world. 

Both A&T and Jackson State, as well as the Virginia State “Trojan Explosion” and “The Roar” from Florida Memorial – will have to wait with the rest of the world to see who will bring home the hardware as the judges tabulate the scores.

Fans and bands were politely but firmly ushered out of the dome as preparations had to get underway for the Celebration Bowl, which was set to kick off in just over 15 hours. 

As the stadium workers prepared to work into the night to make the magic happen, spectators filed out of the stadium and onto the concourse of the dome with anxious energy and a tinge of bewilderment at the course of events.

A group of North Carolina A&T supporters expressed a mix of excitement and confusion after witnessing the event – particularly with no announcement of winners.  

“I mean, some of us are coming to Celebration Bowl but other people aren’t,” one Aggie supporter in a letter jacket shared. 

“Facts,” a gentleman with a BGMM (Blue and Gold Marching Machine) shirt interjected.  “It’s anticlimactic.”

“And none of the bands are performing at the Celebration Bowl so… 

“They bout to go home tomorrow,” a friend added.

“Yeah, so they’re going to find out through social media,” she concluded.

“For an inaugural event – It was quite special,” Barry Harrison said. “Still trying to work out the mechanics of the judging. But the four bands were all excellent in their own way. They all known for their own particular stylings and musicianship. But it was it was quite an event, quite an event. And I’m glad I made the trip from New Orleans to be here to see it.” 

Harrison proudly wore a vintage Southern University letterman’s jacket. He revealed he was a percussionist for the marching band under the tutelage of legendary band director Dr. Issac Greggs. Even though his beloved Human Jukebox didn’t make the cut this round, he still felt the need to come support the ESPN Band of The Year.

“Well, when you when you reach a certain age and a certain level, you just want to see all of us succeed. So like I said, I came all the way from New Orleans,” Harrison continued. “I have come here before for the Honda. I’ve come for the Heritage Bowl. I’ve come for the Pioneer Bowl between the CIAA and SIAC. And I’m just that HBCU guy who just would like to see all of us succeed.”

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“Our president had a vision four years ago to start a bad program when he wanted to bring football to the university. And in our long history, we’ve never had a band program that was established here,” Beckwith told HBCU Gameday. “I was honored that he selected me or interacted with me to get the position. However, this has been like a baby that had to be born. Once we gave birth to the program, the opportunity to just put Florida Memorial and South Florida on the map was, I think, in our hands.”

“And for us to have grown in the four years that we’ve been here to what we’re doing now and to even be recognized by the organization is a great honor. I’ve seen people come up and cry at games because they never expected Florida Memorial to get this kind of notoriety. And we’re very, very grateful as a bandstand to be able to bring this kind of attention to South Florida and to our university.”

It wasn’t easy. The first football season was set for 2020 – which brought along the COVID-19 pandemic. FMU was the only HBCU to play football that season, playing a handful of games before being shut down. 

The band continued to improve out of the purview of many in the HBCU world. Florida Memorial University competes in football at the NAIA level, and only faces a handful of HBCUs per year because of that. Even when the Band of The Year concept was announced, there wasn’t much of a buzz about FloMo, but the proof was in the rankings.

FMU ranked second in September, turning heads with its selection over marching bands in the Division II/NAIA category with much more extensive history. It maintained top three status in each of the the three months. Co-Chair Dowell Taylor, Band Director Emeritus at Jackson State University, talked about what impressed him the most. 

“I was impressed with their mannerisms, the way they carried themselves, the way they handled their instrument carriage, the way they handled their total body form,” Taylor told HBCU Gameday. “And I was very impressed with the fact that everybody was in tune with each other. Everybody knew, and I recall seeing some adjusted steps in some of your maneuvers. I saw some curvilinear forms in your maneuvers.”

Florida Memorial will be competing against one of the oldest HBCU bands, Virginia State University, for the national title at the D2/NAIA level. Whatever happens, Dr. Beckwith is proud of what his band has accomplished in such a short amount of time. 

“From the day that I was handed the position, we declared that one day we were going to be amongst the best,” he said. “Like we literally said it in the interview, and I’m just grateful for the opportunity to be able to actually showcase what we’re doing more than anything.

And I’m grateful to God for, you know, the prophecy and just being able to speak it out, walk in it every day and tell the students every day, listen, do it the right way, do it with integrity. Go hard every single time, show your your effort and good things will come. So this is a manifestation.”

The Band of The Year competition is set for Dec. 15 in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. 

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