Jordyn Dorsey delivered a standout performance Friday night, scoring a game-high 16 points to propel North Carolina A&T to a commanding 65-49 victory over the Delaware Blue Hens at the Bob Carpenter Center. The win marked the Aggies’ fifth consecutive triumph, improving their record to 7-7 overall and 3-0 in Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) play.

Dorsey, who played 38 minutes, was efficient on offense, making five field goals and going 6-for-8 from the free-throw line. She was supported by Paris Locke, who contributed 13 points and seven rebounds in 29 minutes. Maleia Bracone and Chaniya Clark added eight points each to round out the Aggies’ balanced scoring attack.

The Aggies dominated the glass, outrebounding Delaware 43-28, including an 18-4 edge in offensive rebounds. This led to a 19-7 advantage in second-chance points, further demonstrating A&T’s physicality and control of the game.

The contest was closely contested through the first three quarters, with both teams trading leads. However, A&T’s second-ranked scoring defense in the CAA took over in the fourth quarter, holding Delaware to 0-for-8 shooting from the field. Offensively, the Aggies opened the final period with six unanswered points to stretch their lead to 12 and never looked back.

“We know that when our shots aren’t falling, we can always count on our defense,” said head coach Tarrell Robinson. “Tonight was a great example of our defense creating offense and our rebounding giving us second chances to score.”

The Aggies shot an impressive 51.1% inside the arc (24-for-47) despite struggling from beyond it (2-for-14). Locke sealed the game with a powerful drive and scoop layup late in the fourth quarter, pushing the lead to 60-48 with just over two minutes remaining.

Delaware’s Tara Cousins led her team with 15 points, but the Blue Hens dropped to 3-10 overall and 0-3 in conference play. North Carolina A&T will now turn their attention to Towson, where they will face the Tigers on Sunday at 2 p.m.

The remains of President Jimmy Carter departed Atlanta on Tuesday, beginning their final journey to Washington, D.C. The solemn occasion unfolded on a clear but chilly day, as Carter’s casket was transported via Air Force One on Special Air Mission 39, a tribute to his legacy as the 39th president of the United States.

From Atlanta to Washington

A motorcade, including Carter family members, escorted the casket to Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Marietta, Georgia. Upon arrival in Washington, the late president’s remains will be carried to the Navy Memorial, then placed on a horse-drawn caisson for a procession to the U.S. Capitol. Military personnel will transfer the casket into the Capitol Rotunda, where a congressional service is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.

Due to weather-related delays from a winter storm, the service has been rescheduled to 4:30 p.m. Public viewing in the Rotunda will take place from 7 p.m. Tuesday to midnight and continue from 7 a.m. Wednesday until 7 a.m. Thursday.

A Nation in Mourning

Carter’s funeral is set for Thursday at Washington National Cathedral, coinciding with a National Day of Mourning declared by President Joe Biden. Following the service, Carter’s remains will return to his hometown of Plains, Georgia, for a private funeral and interment at Maranatha Baptist Church.

Carter, who passed away on Dec. 29, 2024, at the age of 100, leaves behind a remarkable legacy as a humanitarian and a public servant.

Notable Developments:

• Vice President Kamala Harris, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and House Speaker Mike Johnson will deliver eulogies at Tuesday’s congressional service.
• Supreme Court justices, diplomats, and Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser are among those invited to attend.
• President Biden and former President Donald Trump are expected to attend Thursday’s funeral.

Caisson Tradition Resumes

The ceremonial transport of Carter’s casket is a high-profile mission for the Army’s Caisson Detachment, which resumed operations after a hiatus following the deaths of two horses in 2023. The unit has undergone months of preparation to uphold its tradition of flawless execution during state funerals.

“We hold ourselves to the highest standard,” said Lt. Col. Derrick Draper, deputy commander of the regiment.

Honoring a Life of Service

Jimmy Carter, born on Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains, Georgia, rose from humble beginnings as the son of a farmer and nurse. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and served as a nuclear engineer before returning to Georgia to manage his family farm and serve in the state legislature. Elected president in 1976, Carter’s single term was marked by both achievements, such as energy initiatives and expanded national parks, and challenges, including the Iran hostage crisis.

After leaving office, Carter dedicated his life to humanitarian causes, earning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his global efforts to promote peace, democracy, and economic development. His wife, Rosalynn Carter, passed away in November 2023 at the age of 96.

National Day of Mourning Closures

Thursday’s National Day of Mourning will see federal offices and Postal Service locations closed, and the NYSE and Nasdaq halting trading. Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts has ordered the Court building closed for the day.

This week’s events honor a life devoted to service, leadership, and compassion, ensuring that President Carter’s enduring legacy is remembered and celebrated.

Charlamagne Tha God returned to his home state of South Carolina, bringing a special gift to the community— a Krystal burger chain in Orangeburg. The well-known radio and TV host celebrated the restaurant’s grand opening with a ribbon cutting on Friday morning.

Hundreds of excited people gathered for the event, with city leaders praising the new business for creating over 40 jobs and bringing millions of dollars into the community. Charlamagne, who was born in Moncks Corner, expressed his deep connection to South Carolina, sharing, “I was raised in Moncks Corner, but I did radio in Charleston, I did radio in Columbia, I did parties in Orangeburg all the time, so it’s all just home.”

The restaurant’s opening isn’t just about business for Charlamagne. “I want to inspire the next generation of people in South Carolina,” he said. Beyond creating jobs and generating revenue, the radio personality views the restaurant as an investment in the future of the community.

Three local cheerleaders were particularly inspired by meeting Charlamagne. “It’s very inspirational because we get to meet someone very successful, and it gives us confidence on what we can do when we get older,” said Skyy Blair. Her teammate, Lon’dyn Washington, also expressed gratitude for more fast food options in the area, while Willow Brown shared how thankful she was for Charlamagne’s contribution to the community: “We’re very thankful that somebody from this community came and gave back to us, and it just gives us a bunch of opportunities on how we can be in life.”

Charlamagne emphasized the importance of the Krystal location’s design, noting that it represents the success of many notable individuals who started their journeys in South Carolina.

In closing, Charlamagne shared his motto for success: “Keep God first, stay humble, and keep working,” leaving the crowd, especially the younger attendees, with words of encouragement to carry with them as they continue to pursue their dreams.

As the second presidential inauguration of Donald Trump approaches, the event continues to spark mixed emotions across the country. Recently, an HBCU band found itself at the center of controversy after requesting public donations to cover expenses for performing at the inauguration.

Mississippi Valley State University’s renowned marching band, the “Mean Green Marching Machine,” was invited to play at the ceremony on January 20, an opportunity they eagerly embraced. Dr. Jerryl Briggs, President of Mississippi Valley State, described the occasion as a significant milestone:

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

Despite the enthusiasm, the band’s decision to participate has drawn criticism from Trump detractors. The backlash intensified after the university launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise $350,000 to cover expenses such as new uniforms, instruments, scholarships, and other essential resources.

The Mean Green Marching Machine has a rich history of political involvement, having performed at President Richard Nixon’s inauguration in 1969. Their participation in Trump’s inauguration, however, has sparked debate, with critics questioning the alignment of an HBCU band with the divisive political figure.

For the band, the event represents more than a political statement—it’s an opportunity to honor their legacy and foster educational growth. Whether or not their fundraising goal is met, the conversation surrounding their participation highlights the complexities of balancing tradition, representation, and contemporary politics.

KhaDarel Hodge’s remarkable journey from Prairie View A&M University to the NFL’s elite reached a new milestone with his selection to the 2025 Pro Bowl Games, scheduled for February 2, 2025. The Atlanta Falcons special teamer and wide receiver earned this honor alongside teammate Chris Lindstrom, highlighting a season filled with unforgettable moments.

Hodge’s path to this achievement exemplifies determination and versatility. At Prairie View A&M, he excelled as a wide receiver, earning first-team All-Southwestern Athletic Conference honors in 2017. Despite going undrafted in 2018, Hodge never wavered, making his mark with the Los Angeles Rams, Cleveland Browns, and Detroit Lions before joining the Falcons in 2022.

This season, Hodge delivered standout performances, including recovering a muffed punt in the end zone for a touchdown in Week 4 and catching a 45-yard walk-off touchdown in overtime during Week 5. His exceptional Week 15 performance against the Las Vegas Raiders, where he blocked one punt and tipped another, earned him NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.

“Hodge works his tail off,” Falcons punter Bradley Pinion said. “Phenomenal teammate. Phenomenal gunner. Phenomenal wide receiver. He’s an all-around good guy.”

Head coach Raheem Morris added, “It’s always an honor when those guys have the opportunity to go be a part of anything Pro Bowl related. That’s always pretty cool for us.”

Hodge’s Pro Bowl selection not only celebrates his exceptional season but also highlights the impact of HBCU athletes in the NFL. As a Prairie View A&M alumnus, he carries the pride of his alma mater and serves as an inspiration for future generations.

From recovering punts to catching game-winning touchdowns, KhaDarel Hodge’s journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the opportunities that arise when talent meets perseverance.

To follow KhaDarel Hodge’s journey and connect with him directly, check out his verified social media accounts:

• Instagram: @kdhodge
• Twitter: @KhaDarelHodge