Sports
“HBCU Football Week 0 & Week 1: Pre-Game Hype and Key Matchups”
Introduction:
As the 2024 HBCU football season kicks off, Week 0 and Week 1 bring us a host of exciting matchups across all conferences, including the MEAC, SWAC, CIAA, SIAC, and the newly rebranded HBCU Athletic Conference (formerly Gulf Coast Conference). From historic rivalries to key non-conference tests, these early-season games set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying season.
Week 0: Setting the Stage
Week 0 gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming season with a handful of games that will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for what’s to come. Key games to watch include:
- UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves (08-29-2024): Alcorn State faces a tough test against UAB, a team known for its formidable defense.
- Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison (08-29-2024): Howard hits the road to take on Rutgers in a game that could showcase the Bison’s potential this season.
Week 1: Full Slate of Action
Week 1 ramps up the excitement with a full slate of games. Every HBCU football fan will have something to cheer for with several high-profile matchups:
- Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies (08-30-2024): North Carolina A&T aims to prove they can compete with Power 5 schools.
- Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions (08-31-2024): The Golden Lions have a chance to make a statement against an SEC opponent.
Pre-Game Summaries: What to Expect
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect from each game:
- Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams (08-31-2024): A CIAA battle that promises to be a defensive struggle.
- Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles (09-07-2024): This matchup could be a preview of a future playoff clash, with both teams eyeing conference titles.
Game to Watch: Prairie View A&M vs. Texas Southern
One of the most anticipated games of Week 1 is the SWAC showdown between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern. This rivalry game is always intense, and with both teams hungry for a strong start, expect fireworks on the field.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
The early weeks of the 2024 season are crucial for establishing momentum. Whether it’s a powerhouse program defending its title or an underdog looking to upset the big boys, every game counts. HBCU football is more than just a game; it’s a tradition, a culture, and a community. Let’s get ready for a season to remember!
Share Your Thoughts:
Which games are you most excited about? Drop your predictions in the comments and join the conversation as we celebrate the kickoff of another thrilling HBCU football season!
#HBCUFootball #Week0 #Week1 #GameDay #SWAC #MEAC #CIAA #SIAC #GamedayVibes
This post provides a comprehensive overview of the key matchups, offering insights into what fans can expect as they gear up for the 2024 HBCU football season. It’s crafted to engage your audience and spark conversation as the season unfolds.
GAMES TO WATCH OUT FOR++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
1. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
UAB, coming off a solid 2023 season in Conference USA, will open their 2024 campaign at home against Alcorn State. The Blazers are known for their stout defense, which ranked in the top 25 nationally last season. Alcorn State, representing the SWAC, is looking to build on its previous success and make a statement against an FBS opponent. The Braves’ dynamic offense, led by their dual-threat quarterback, will be key to their chances of pulling off an upset.
2. Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies
Date: August 30, 2024
Summary:
Wake Forest, a team known for its fast-paced offense in the ACC, faces off against North Carolina A&T, a perennial powerhouse in the MEAC. The Aggies have a strong history of upsets against FBS teams and will be looking to showcase their talent on a bigger stage. With a solid defensive line and a capable running game, North Carolina A&T hopes to slow down the Demon Deacons and control the clock.
3. Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
In a battle of in-state rivals, Arkansas will host Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Razorbacks, competing in the SEC, are looking to start their season with a dominant performance. Pine Bluff, however, will not be easily intimidated. As one of the top programs in the SWAC, they have the potential to make things difficult, especially if their defense can force turnovers and keep the game close.
4. Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Bluefield State, an independent DII program, will face off against Winston-Salem State from the CIAA. This matchup pits two teams looking to start the season strong. Winston-Salem State, with its storied football tradition, is favored, but Bluefield State’s up-and-coming program could surprise many. Key to the game will be the Rams’ ability to establish their running game early.
5. South Florida Bulls vs. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats
Date: September 1, 2024
Summary:
South Florida will kick off their season by hosting Bethune-Cookman from the SWAC. The Bulls, part of the AAC, have been rebuilding and are looking to regain their competitive edg
e. Bethune-Cookman, meanwhile, will aim to capita
lize on any early-season rust from their FBS oppon
ent. The Wildcats’ success will likely hinge on their ability to execute on special teams and create big plays.
6. Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alabama State takes on North Carolina Central in what promises to be a physical contest. Both teams are highly regarded in their respective conferences, with strong defenses and efficient offenses. Alabama State will look to leverage their home-field advantage, while North Carolina Central will rely on their disciplined approach to control the game’s tempo.
7. Miles Golden Bears vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alabama State will face Miles College in this Week 2 matchup, providing the Hornets an opportunity to fine-tune their game before heading into conference play. Miles, from the SIAC, will aim to showcase their resilience and compete against a higher division team. The game will be a test of depth and endurance, particularly for the Golden Bears.
8. Rice Owls vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Rice, from Conference USA, will host Texas Southern from the SWAC in a cross-divisional matchup. The Owls are known for their strong running game, while Texas Southern will be looking to bring their explosive passing attack to the forefront. This game could be a shootout if both offenses find their rhythm early.
9. Samford Bulldogs vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
In a matchup featuring two teams known for their physicality, Samford will take on Alabama State. The Bulldogs, from the Southern Conference, are always a tough out, and the Hornets will need to be at their best to secure a win. The game could hinge on which team can win the battle in the trenches.
10. North Carolina Tar Heels vs. North Carolina Central Eagles
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
This in-state clash between the ACC’s North Carolina Tar Heels and MEAC’s North Carolina Central Eagles is one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. The Tar Heels, with their high-powered offense, will look to outpace the Eagles, who will rely on a disciplined defense to keep them in the game. This game offers a big opportunity for Central to make a statement on a national stage.
11. Lamar Cardinals vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
Lamar will host Texas Southern in what could be a pivotal game for both programs. The Cardinals, looking to improve their standing in the Southland Conference, will face a Texas Southern team that’s eager to prove itself in the SWAC. The outcome will likely depend on which team can control the line of scrimmage and sustain drives.
12. Virginia Union Panthers vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
A classic CIAA matchup, Virginia Union and Winston-Salem State are two of the top programs in the conference. This game could have playoff implications, as both teams are expected to contend for the CIAA title. Look for a hard-fought battle with plenty of intensity on both sides of the ball.
13. Texas Southern Tigers vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Texas Southern will open their season against Virginia-Lynchburg in a non-conference matchup. The Tigers will be looking to establish their offense early and build confidence heading into the heart of their schedule. Virginia-Lynchburg, an independent program, will aim to compete and potentially pull off a surprise.
14. Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Rutgers, a member of the Big Ten, will host the Howard Bison in a game that pits an FBS powerhouse against one of the MEAC’s storied programs. Howard will look to test themselves against top-tier competition, while Rutgers aims to start the season on a strong note. The Bison’s defense will be crucial in keeping this game competitive.
15. UL Monroe Warhawks vs. Jackson State Tigers
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Jackson State, fresh off a successful season, will travel to take on UL Monroe. The Tigers, who have been a force in the SWAC, will look to challenge the Warhawks of the Sun Belt Conference. The key to the game will be Jackson State’s ability to maintain offensive balance and keep the Warhawks on their heels.
16. Auburn Tigers vs. Alabama A&M Bulldogs
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Alabama A&M faces a tough challenge as they travel to face Auburn, a perennial SEC contender. The Bulldogs will need to execute flawlessly to stay in the game, especially against Auburn’s powerful defense. For Auburn, this game serves as an opportunity to fine-tune their strategy before heading into the SEC schedule.
17. East Carolina Pirates vs. Norfolk State Spartans
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Norfolk State, representing the MEAC, will take on East Carolina from the AAC. The Spartans will look to upset the Pirates by playing disciplined football and capitalizing on any mistakes. East Carolina will aim to overwhelm Norfolk State with their speed and athleticism on both sides of the ball.
18. Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Alcorn State faces a tough test against Vanderbilt from the SEC. The Braves will need to be sharp on both offense and defense to keep pace with the Commodores. This game provides an opportunity for Alcorn State to measure themselves against a higher level of competition and showcase their talent on a larger stage.
19. Miami Hurricanes vs. Florida A&M Rattlers
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
In a classic Florida matchup, Florida A&M will take on the Miami Hurricanes. The Rattlers, known for their strong tradition in the SWAC, will face an uphill battle against Miami’s speed and depth. However, with a strong showing, Florida A&M can gain valuable experience and potentially put a scare into their in-state rivals.
20. West Virginia State Yellow Jackets vs. Carson-Newman Eagles
Date: September 12, 2024
Summary:
West Virginia State will host Carson-Newman in this early-season non-conference matchup. The Yellow Jackets will look to establish themselves as contenders in their conference, while Carson-Newman will aim to spoil their plans. The key to victory for West Virginia State will be maintaining discipline and executing on both sides of the ball.
**21. Delaware StateContinuing with the remaining pre-game summaries:
21. Delaware State Hornets vs. Wagner Seahawks
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Delaware State travels to face Wagner in what promises to be a competitive game. The Hornets, representing the MEAC, will look to showcase their defensive strength against Wagner, a member of the Northeast Conference. Both teams are known for their physical play, and the winner will likely be the team that can control the line of scrimmage and minimize turnovers.
22. Richmond Spiders vs. Delaware State Hornets
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
Delaware State faces a challenging road test against the Richmond Spiders, a strong program in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The Hornets will need to bring their best effort, particularly on defense, to contain Richmond’s balanced attack. For Richmond, this game serves as an opportunity to tune up before diving into conference play.
23. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Bowie State Bulldogs
Date: September 28, 2024
Summary:
In a key CIAA matchup, Winston-Salem State will take on Bowie State. Both teams have championship aspirations, making this game a crucial early-season contest. Winston-Salem State will rely on their experienced defense to keep Bowie State’s offense in check, while the Bulldogs will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Rams’ secondary.
24. Richmond Spiders vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
North Carolina A&T will be tested against Richmond in what should be a closely contested game. The Aggies have a tradition of performing well against strong competition, and this game will be no different. Richmond’s well-rounded team will provide a tough challenge, but North Carolina A&T’s defense could be the key to pulling off an upset.
25. Morehead State Eagles vs. Central State Marauders
Date: August 29, 2024
Summary:
Central State opens their season against Morehead State in what could be an interesting non-conference matchup. The Marauders will look to get their offense going early, while Morehead State will aim to impose their will with a balanced attack. The outcome could hinge on which team can establish a consistent ground game.
26. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves
Date: August 30, 2024
Summary:
Alcorn State faces UAB in what will be a tough test for the Braves. UAB’s defense is one of the best in Conference USA, and the Braves will need to find creative ways to move the ball. On the flip side, UAB will look to assert their dominance early, but Alcorn State’s gritty style of play could keep the game closer than expected.
27. Wagner Seahawks vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
Wagner will face Virginia-Lynchburg in a game that should serve as a confidence-builder for the Seahawks. Virginia-Lynchburg, while capable of big plays, will need to play a near-perfect game to keep pace with Wagner. The Mystic Dragons will rely on their speed and special teams to try to create scoring opportunities.
28. Prairie View A&M Panthers vs. Texas Southern Tigers
Date: August 31, 2024
Summary:
This SWAC rivalry game between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern is one of the most anticipated matchups of the early season. Prairie View A&M, known for their high-powered offense, will look to put up points in bunches, while Texas Southern’s defense will need to step up to keep the game within reach. The game could come down to which team wins the turnover battle.
29. Arkansas Baptist Buffaloes vs. John Melvin Millers
Date: September 1, 2024
Summary:
In this non-conference matchup, Arkansas Baptist takes on John Melvin. Both teams will be looking to establish themselves early in the season, with Arkansas Baptist focusing on their running game, while John Melvin might rely on their passing attack. The game could be decided by which team can control the clock and execute in the red zone.
30. Concord Mountain Lions vs. Bluefield State Big Blues
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
Bluefield State will host Concord in a game that promises to be a defensive battle. Both teams have strong defenses, so the game could be a low-scoring affair. Bluefield State will look to get their ground game going, while Concord will try to spread the field with their passing attack.
31. North Carolina A&T Aggies vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: September 7, 2024
Summary:
This matchup between North Carolina A&T and Winston-Salem State features two of the top programs in HBCU football. The Aggies, coming off a strong 2023 season, will look to dominate with their physical style of play. Winston-Salem State, however, has the talent to make this a close game, particularly if their defense can hold up against A&T’s running game.
32. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Ohio Dominican Panthers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces Ohio Dominican in what could be a challenging non-conference game. The Panthers have a potent offense that could test the Rams’ secondary. Winston-Salem State will need to control the tempo and keep Ohio Dominican’s offense off the field to have a chance of winning.
33. Michigan State Spartans vs. Prairie View A&M Panthers
Date: September 14, 2024
Summary:
Prairie View A&M travels to take on Michigan State, an opponent from the Big Ten. The Panthers will face a tough challenge against a Spartan team known for their physicality and depth. Prairie View A&M’s best chance for success will be to strike early and try to force Michigan State into mistakes.
34. Virginia State Trojans vs. Winston-Salem State Rams
Date: September 21, 2024
Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces a crucial CIAA matchup against Virginia State. Both teams are considered contenders in the conference, making this game an important one for both programs. Expect a hard-fought, physical game with the winner gaining an early edge in the CIAA standings.
35. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats vs. Alabama State Hornets
Date: September 28, 2024
Summary:
This SWAC showdown between Bethune-Cookman and Alabama State could have major implications for the conference standings. The Wildcats will look to use their speed to outpace the Hornets, while Alabama State will try to control the game with their physical style of play. Special teams could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.
36. Alabama State Hornets vs. Florida A&M Rattlers
Date: October 5, 2024
Summary:
In one of the biggest games on the SWAC calendar, Alabama State takes on Florida A&M. The Rattlers, with their explosive offense, will be looking to put up big numbers, while Alabama State will rely on their strong defense to keep the game close. This game could have major implications for the SWAC East Division title.
Over the past five years, HBCUs have quietly become epicenters for Black innovation and entrepreneurship. Campuses that were once known primarily for their cultural and academic legacy are now home to tech incubators, AI labs, robotics centers, and startup accelerators — all designed to give students a competitive edge in high-demand industries.
Innovation Meets Culture
What sets HBCU innovation hubs apart is their culturally rooted mission. Students don’t just create tech for profit; they develop solutions tailored to historically underserved communities:
-
AI platforms helping small Black-owned businesses scale.
-
Fintech solutions for underbanked populations.
-
Telehealth apps focused on Black maternal and mental health.
-
AgriTech initiatives tackling food deserts in urban areas.
These hubs provide real-world experience and foster collaboration between students, alumni, and industry leaders.
Cutting-Edge Tools and Programs
HBCU innovation hubs now offer:
-
AI labs with cloud credits from Google, Microsoft, and AWS
-
VR-based pitch simulation programs for startup competitions
-
3D printing and robotics labs
-
Blockchain tools for secure credentialing and digital portfolios
-
Web3 workshops for NFTs, decentralized finance, and crypto literacy
Alumni and Student Success Stories
-
A Morehouse alum’s AI-driven platform predicts student retention trends for universities nationwide.
-
A Spelman graduate launched a telehealth app for maternal care, receiving $2.5M in seed funding.
-
Howard engineering students launched a drone-mapping startup to track flood zones in historically neglected neighborhoods.
How to Get Involved / Learn More
Students, alumni, and aspiring entrepreneurs can tap into these resources:
-
Google for Startups – https://startup.google.com
-
Microsoft Learn Student Hub – https://docs.microsoft.com/learn/students
-
AWS Educate – https://aws.amazon.com/education/awseducate/
-
Black Tech Pipeline – https://blacktechpipeline.com
HBCU ORIGINAL
Marshall Faulk to Southern University: Hall of Famer Takes Over Jaguars Program in Landmark Hire
BATON ROUGE, La. — Southern University is making a splash. A massive one.
Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk is officially returning home to Louisiana — this time as the new head coach of the Jaguars.
Southern has agreed to a three-year deal with Faulk, according to multiple sources, marking the first collegiate head-coaching opportunity for the New Orleans native. The move sends shockwaves across the HBCU landscape and continues a growing trend of marquee NFL legends taking the reins at historically Black programs.
Faulk, 52, spent the past year under Deion Sanders at Colorado, serving as the Buffaloes’ running backs coach and helping develop one of the nation’s most high-profile offenses. It was his first coaching job since retiring from the NFL — a reminder that Southern is betting big on star power and football IQ.
A Hall of Fame Resume Arrives at an HBCU Powerhouse
Before stepping into coaching, Faulk’s playing career was nothing short of iconic.
After shredding defenses for three seasons at San Diego State, he became the No. 2 pick in the 1994 NFL Draft. He went on to terrorize the league for 12 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts and the St. Louis Rams’ “Greatest Show on Turf.”
-
12,279 rushing yards
-
136 total touchdowns
-
2000 NFL MVP
-
Super Bowl XXXIV Champion
-
Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2011
Now he brings that pedigree less than 90 minutes from where he grew up in New Orleans — to a Southern program starving for stability.
Southern Turns the Page After Turbulent Season
Southern’s 2025 campaign has been brutal:
-
1–10 record
-
Nine straight losses
-
Head coach Terrence Graves dismissed after a 1–6 start
-
Fifth head coach since 2020
The Jaguars have talent, but not traction. Faulk’s arrival signals a reboot — and an era where Southern hopes to pair NFL star credibility with HBCU tradition.
A Trend Continues: NFL Legends Taking Over HBCUs
Faulk becomes the latest major name to enter HBCU coaching circles:
-
Michael Vick at Norfolk State
-
DeSean Jackson at Delaware State
-
Eddie George (Tennessee State, 2021–24)
-
Deion Sanders (Jackson State, 2020–22)
The star-coach phenomenon has injected new visibility, recruiting power, and national intrigue into HBCU football. Faulk immediately becomes one of the most prominent figures in the space.
What’s Next for the Jaguars?
Faulk inherits a roster needing direction and a fan base hungry for revival. His NFL experience, regional ties, and partnership with Sanders this past season offer Southern a blueprint for relevance — and maybe more.
Southern closes its season this Saturday against Grambling. After that, it’s Faulk’s show.
The Jaguars wanted a leader who could reset the culture.
They hired a Hall of Famer.
They hired Marshall Faulk.
In a season where HBCU football roared louder than it had in years, two proud programs — Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls and Virginia Union Panthers — stepped onto the national stage with all eyes watching. Conference titles were earned, history was rewritten, and belief ran high that this year, HBCUs were ready to shock Division II.
But on playoff weekend… dreams collided with reality.
JOHNSON C. SMITH — A HISTORY-MAKING SEASON MEETS A BRUTAL END
Just two weeks earlier, Johnson C. Smith was the miracle story of HBCU football. A team that hadn’t raised a conference trophy in more than 50 years finally clawed its way back to glory. The Golden Bulls were riding energy, confidence, and destiny.
But the NCAA Tourna
ment doesn’t care about destiny.
Against Frostburg State, JCSU struggled to find rhythm. Frostburg’s defense came flying downhill — collapsing pockets, disrupting throws, and forcing mistakes. Every spark JCSU created was quickly stomped out.
The Golden Bulls fought. They battled. They refused to fold.
But Frostburg controlled the day.
Final: Frostburg State 21, Johnson C. Smith 7.
A season of magic ended with a cold playoff reality. But the rise of JCSU has changed the CIAA and reshaped expectations for years to come.
VIRGINIA UNION — A DYNASTY STOPPED AT THE DOOR
Virginia Union came into the postseason with pedigree: multiple conference titles, elite talent, and the grit of a seasoned program. The Panthers showed flashes of that dominance against California (PA).
They moved the ball. They made plays. They delivered big hits.
But the playoffs come down to the final possessions.
In the fourth quarter, California (PA) mounted the drive that changed everything. A handful of missed tackles and a perfectly timed score pushed the Vulcans ahead. Virginia Union’s last attempt to respond fell inches short.
Final: California (PA) 27, Virginia Union 24.
A three-point defeat. A three-month grind ended in three minutes of heartbreak.
THE BIGGER PICTURE — A NEW HBCU ERA IS FORMING
These losses weren’t signs of weakness — they were signs of growth.
For the first time in years, multiple HBCU programs entered the NCAA D-II national bracket with real expectations. Programs are recruiting better, investing more, and proving they belong on the national stage.
-
JCSU announced its return to national relevance.
-
VUU showed it can stand toe-to-toe with national powers.
-
And HBCU football overall sent a message:
We’re not just showing up. We’re coming to win.
This year came with heartbreak, yes — but also momentum.
And momentum is what sparks eras.
SEE THE FULL NCAA D-II PLAYOFF BRACKET
Click here to view the complete 2025 NCAA Division II Football Championship bracket:
https://www.ncaa.com/brackets/football/d2/2025
RIVERDALE, N.Y. — Lincoln University battled for 40 minutes, traded punches possession after possession, and held leads deep into the second half—but a buzzer-beating finish spoiled the Lions’ comeback bid as Queens (NY) escaped with a 62–60 win Saturday at the Harlem Renaissance Classic inside Manhattan University’s Draddy Gymnasium.
Lincoln (1–2) matched the Knights blow-for-blow from the opening tip. Both teams went into the half deadlocked at 29–29, with the Lions’ high-efficiency interior scoring keeping pace despite Queens’ early perimeter burst.
The Lions gained traction in the second half behind the dominant play of Julius Olanrewaju, who delivered one of the best performances of the weekend. The senior scored at all three levels, poured in critical jumpers, and carried the Lions offensively during a series of lead changes.
Lincoln took multiple small leads behind strong defensive stretches and second-chance opportunities. BJ Johnson Jr. orchestrated the offense beautifully with seven assists, while the Lions won the rebounding battle 41–27, including 14 offensive boards.
But Queens continued answering every surge. With Tahj-Malik Campbell heating up—on his way to a game-high 28 points—the Knights hung around until the final minute.
With the game tied in the closing seconds, Queens isolated Campbell at the top of the floor. He drove hard to his right and finished a tough, contested layup with under two seconds remaining. Lincoln’s desperation heave missed as time expired, sealing the Lions’ first loss in the Classic and one of the most dramatic endings of the event.
LINCOLN TOP PERFORMERS
Julius Olanrewaju
• 23 points
• 7–13 FG, 3–4 3FG
• 5 rebounds
BJ Johnson Jr.
• 11 points
• 9 rebounds
• 7 assists
Draven Pilson
• 9 points
• 7 rebounds
Ginuwine Tropnas
• 9 points
• 7 rebounds
GAME NOTES
• Game featured 7 lead changes and 6 ties
• Lincoln scored 32 points in the paint and 9 fast-break points
• Lions dominated the glass, 41–27, but shot just 52% at the free-throw line
• Queens closed the game on a late 6–2 run
RIVERDALE, N.Y. — Bowie State went punch-for-punch on a national stage, but a last-second three-point play proved costly as the Bulldogs dropped a tough 65–63 decision to Saint Michael’s Saturday afternoon at Manhattan University’s Draddy Gymnasium during the HBCU Harlem Renaissance Classic.
The Bulldogs (0–5) controlled long stretches of the game, showcasing one of their most balanced efforts of the young season. Bowie State owned the paint with 26 interior points and grabbed early momentum behind the shot-making of Justin Morrisey and a late-half go-ahead triple from Charles Thomas III, taking a 35–33 lead into the locker room.
The second half turned into a heavyweight exchange—10 lead changes, defensive swings, and clutch buckets from both sides. Jaiden McGhee, who was electric all night, put BSU ahead 56–49 with 7:49 left, attacking the rim and keeping the Bulldogs explosive in transition. Thomas added another long-range bomb and key free throws down the stretch to keep Bowie State within range.
But the Purple Knights (1–3) clawed their way back with a 14–5 closing run. After back-to-back threes from Abdur-Rahman De Leon and a late and-one from Greg Kenney, Saint Michael’s trailed by just one entering the final moments.
With the score tied and only seconds remaining, Saint Michael’s freshman Quintin Floyd delivered the dagger—finishing a contested layup and converting the free throw with two seconds left. Bowie State drew up one last attempt out of a timeout, but Kenney swatted away the Bulldogs’ final look, sealing the narrow loss.
BOWIE STATE TOP PERFORMERS
Justin Morrisey
• 21 points
• 3–5 from three
• 5 rebounds
Jaiden McGhee
• 20 points
• 8–13 FG
• 6 rebounds
Charles Thomas III
• 11 points
• 2–6 from deep
• 3 rebounds
UP NEXT
The Bulldogs return home on Wednesday, Nov. 26, hosting Cheyney University at 1 p.m. inside A.C. Jordan Arena as they look to turn competitive play into the season’s first win.
For more on Bowie State Athletics and its 14 varsity programs, visit bsubulldogs.com.
-
HBCU ORIGINAL4 weeks agoPhiladelphia: DeSean Jackson & Mike Vick Lead the Charge at the HBCU Football Classic
-
HBCU ORIGINAL4 weeks agoElizabeth City State Stuns Bowie State 28–27 in Homecoming Heartbreaker
-
HBCU ORIGINAL3 weeks agoDELAWARE STATE SURVIVES MORGAN STATE COMEBACK
-
HBCU ORIGINAL4 weeks agoCoppin State Shows Fight in Season Opener Against Maryland at CFG Bank Arena
-
HBCU ORIGINAL3 weeks agoAlcorn State Braves Take on Maryland Terrapins at Xfinity Arena: Jameel Morris Shines
-
HBCU ORIGINAL3 weeks agoBowie State Bulldogs 28, Lincoln University (PA) Lions 17 Lincoln, PA — Frank “Tick” Coleman Field
-
HBCU ORIGINAL3 days agoJCSU & VIRGINIA UNION FALL IN THE NCAA D-II PLAYOFFS**
-
HBCU ORIGINAL1 week agoWalmart Launches Dedicated HBCU Page: A New Win for Culture, Commerce, and Community