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.
PHILADELPHIA — The Delaware State Hornets continued their non-conference slate Thursday night, facing a determined Saint Joseph’s squad in a 67–51 contest that showcased resilience, youth development, and flashes of defensive intensity from the Hornets.
After a slow shooting start, Delaware State settled in and found its rhythm midway through the first half, cutting the deficit to just three points at 15–12 following a strong response on both ends of the floor. The Hornets battled through early pressure, showing poise and defensive commitment against a hot-shooting Hawks lineup.
Saint Joseph’s took advantage of perimeter shooting early, building momentum heading into halftime, but Delaware State refused to fold. The Hornets continued to compete after the break, answering runs and playing with energy as the game progressed.
Delaware State showed improved ball movement and defensive presence in the second half, working to close the gap after Saint Joseph’s extended its lead. Despite the final margin, the Hornets’ late push reflected their persistence and growth, particularly against a short-handed but aggressive opponent.
As the season continues, Delaware State remains focused on building chemistry, tightening execution, and turning these competitive moments into wins as conference play approaches.
Final Score: Saint Joseph’s 67, Delaware State 51
PHILADELPHIA — Ose Okojie delivered a composed, physical performance on both ends, finishing with 17 points and 10 rebounds as Howard held off Drexel, 74-66, on Tuesday night.
The victory marked Howard’s fourth straight win and its first true road victory of the season after three previous attempts. The Bison (8-5) controlled the game early and leaned on efficiency and free-throw shooting down the stretch to seal the win inside Drexel’s home arena.
Howard shot nearly 48 percent from the field and an impressive 92 percent at the free-throw line, knocking down 23 of 25 attempts. Cam Gillus filled the stat sheet with 16 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, while Bryce Harris scored 13 points, including seven free throws. Cedric Taylor III added 12 points, punctuating the Bison’s late-game composure with a key layup in the final two minutes.
The Bison seized control early, building a 36-25 halftime lead behind Okojie’s 11 first-half points and Gillus’ perimeter shooting. A Gillus three midway through the opening half gave Howard a lead it would not relinquish after the first two minutes of play, with the margin ballooning to as many as 16 points.
Drexel (4-7) made multiple pushes in the second half behind a career night from Kevon Vanderhorst. The guard poured in 30 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including four three-pointers, and went 10-for-11 from the free-throw line. Villiam Garcia Adsten chipped in 11 points, six rebounds, and four assists for the Dragons.
Despite Drexel cutting the deficit to single digits late, Howard’s rebounding advantage (36-22) and poise at the line proved decisive. Okojie secured the defensive rebound on Drexel’s final missed free throw with eight seconds remaining, effectively closing the door.
Howard never trailed after taking a 7-5 lead early in the first half, continuing to show growth away from home as it builds momentum heading deeper into the season.
HBCU ORIGINAL
South Carolina State storms back from 28 down, wins 10th-anniversary Cricket Celebration Bowl in four-overtime thriller, 40–38
HBCU Original | On the Ground – Atlanta
ATLANTA — Ten years into the Cricket Celebration Bowl, HBCU football delivered a moment built for history.
South Carolina State erased a stunning 28-0 deficit, survived a late Prairie View A&M haymaker, and outlasted the Panthers through four overtimes to claim a 40–38 victory in the 10th-anniversary Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
For nearly three quarters, Prairie View looked ready to turn the championship stage into a statement. Quarterback Cameron Peters was in full command early, spreading the ball and using his legs to keep the Bulldogs off balance. His opening-quarter touchdown pass to Ethan John set the tone, and by halftime Prairie View had built a commanding 21-0 lead.
The Panthers pushed it to 28-0 early in the third quarter when Peters found Andre Dennis, and the Celebration Bowl crowd braced for a runaway.
Then everything changed.
South Carolina State flipped the game with urgency and belief, leaning heavily on quarterback Ryan Stubblefield, who refused to let the Bulldogs fade. Stubblefield cracked the scoreboard with a short touchdown run, then sparked a rapid surge that included a Jordan Smith rushing score and a Stubblefield-to-Smith touchdown through the air. What once felt insurmountable suddenly became a one-score game.
Early in the fourth quarter, Stubblefield powered in from a yard out, completing the comeback and tying the game at 28–28.
Prairie View still had one more punch. Peters delivered a 78-yard strike to Cameron Bonner to retake the lead, igniting the Panthers’ sideline and threatening to slam the door shut. But Stubblefield answered yet again, engineering a late drive and finding Jordan Smith for the tying touchdown with under two minutes remaining.
Overtime followed — and so did drama.
The teams exchanged field goals in the first extra period. The second overtime passed scoreless. Under the two-point shootout format in the third overtime, both teams came up empty. In the fourth, South Carolina State finally broke through when Tyler Smith converted the Bulldogs’ attempt. Prairie View’s final answer fell short.
The comeback was complete.
South Carolina State had just authored the largest comeback in Celebration Bowl history.
Scoring Summary
1Q (1:02) — PV: Cameron Peters 16-yard TD pass to Ethan John (PV 7-0)
2Q (10:30) — PV: Peters 27-yard TD run (PV 14-0)
2Q (1:05) — PV: Peters 14-yard TD pass to Jyzaiah Rockwell (PV 21-0)
3Q (12:41) — PV: Peters 13-yard TD pass to Andre Dennis (PV 28-0)
3Q (11:19) — SCS: Ryan Stubblefield 5-yard TD run (PV 28-7)
3Q (8:34) — SCS: Jordan Smith 10-yard TD run (PV 28-14)
3Q (5:05) — SCS: Stubblefield 19-yard TD pass to Jordan Smith (PV 28-21)
4Q (10:44) — SCS: Stubblefield 1-yard TD run (28-28)
4Q (9:53) — PV: Peters 78-yard TD pass to Cameron Bonner (PV 35-28)
4Q (1:54) — SCS: Stubblefield 10-yard TD pass to Jordan Smith (35-35)
OT1: Prairie View FG; South Carolina State FG (38-38)
OT2: No scoring
OT3: Two-point tries — both teams fail
OT4: SCS converts (Tyler Smith); PV fails — Final: SCS 40, PV 38
Team Stats
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Total Yards: PV 491 | SCS 357
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Passing: PV 436 | SCS 279
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Rushing: PV 55 | SCS 78
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Time of Possession: PV 25:45 | SCS 34:15
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Turnovers: PV 2 | SCS 1
Game Leaders
South Carolina State
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Ryan Stubblefield: 15-29, 234 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT; 11 rushes, 11 yards, 3 TD
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Jordan Smith: 9 catches, 152 yards, 2 TD; 1 rushing TD
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Brenyen Scott: 9 tackles (Defensive MVP)
Prairie View A&M
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Cameron Peters: 24-36, 412 yards, 4 TD; 35 rushing yards, TD
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Andre Dennis: 7 catches, 131 yards, TD
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Sterling Roberts: 11 tackles, 2.5 sacks
Records Broken
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Largest comeback in Celebration Bowl history (28 points)
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Most passing yards (team): Prairie View A&M (436)
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Most passing yards (player): Cameron Peters (412)
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Most receptions: Jordan Smith (9)
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Most receiving yards: Jordan Smith (152)
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Attendance: 26,703
Final Word
The four-overtime epic surpassed the two-overtime thriller of 2022, once again raising the bar for the Celebration Bowl stage.
Prairie View A&M lit up the night with record-setting offense. But South Carolina State delivered the lasting image — resilience, belief, and a quarterback who simply refused to let his team fade.
Ten years in, the Cricket Celebration Bowl didn’t just celebrate HBCU football.
It etched another unforgettable chapter in its history.
PHILADELPHIA, PA — December 9, 2025.
In front of 1,694 fans inside the Michael J. Hagan ’85 Arena, Coppin State stepped into a tough non-conference road test against a red-hot Saint Joseph’s squad. The Eagles competed with grit and energy throughout the night but ultimately fell, 87–65, as SJU extended its win streak.
For a Coppin team continuing to build chemistry and identity, the night was filled with individual bright spots and a strong showing from the bench.
Strong Individual Performances Highlight Coppin’s Fight
⭐ Nelson Lamizana Sets the Tone
Junior forward Nelson Lamizana delivered a team-high 13 points on 6-of-12 shooting, adding 5 rebounds and 4 assists. His versatility sparked Coppin early and kept the Eagles within reach during key stretches.
🔥 Tyler Koenig Continues His Rise
Koenig added 11 points, battling in the paint and knocking down all three free throws. He also grabbed 4 rebounds and provided steady interior presence.
💪 Bench Brings Energy: 29 Points
Coppin State’s bench was a major bright spot, contributing a strong 29 points:
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Favour Aire: 10 points, 3 rebounds, 4-for-4 at the line.
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Hussain Williams: 7 points, including a deep three.
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Jamari Piercy: 7 points on 3-of-4 shooting.
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Torrin Andrews: Active defensively with 3 rebounds, 3 steals, and a three-pointer.
The Eagles shot 43.9% from the field and an impressive 84.6% at the free throw line, showing improved offensive efficiency—especially in the second half.
Game Flow: Eagles Strike First, Hawks Answer With Runs
Coppin State opened the game strong, taking a 7–4 lead in the first five minutes through tough defense and patient execution.
Saint Joseph’s responded with a 14–1 run that shifted momentum, but Coppin stayed composed and continued to attack.
A late SJU burst sent the Eagles into halftime trailing 43–26.
In the second half, Coppin State played its best basketball of the night—shooting 48% from the floor and hitting all seven free throws. The Eagles pushed the tempo, scored 32 points in the paint, and generated 12 fast break points.
Despite the Hawks maintaining a 20-point cushion, Coppin State’s growth on both ends was evident.
Saint Joseph’s Big Night
SJU was led by Jaiden Glover-Toscano’s career-high 25 points and seven threes, while the Hawks’ ball movement (22 assists on 26 baskets) and free-throw shooting (21-of-24) helped them stay in control.
Justice Ajogbor’s 10 points and 7 boards were boosted by a historic milestone—his 200th career block, placing him among Division I’s elite rim protectors.
Coppin State Team Stats Snapshot
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65 Points
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43.9% FG (25–57)
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22.2% 3PT (4–18)
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84.6% FT (11–13)
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26 Rebounds
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29 Bench Points
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10 Points Off Turnovers
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32 Points in the Paint
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12 Fast Break Points
The Eagles tied the game once early and held the lead briefly before SJU’s offense found rhythm.
Looking Ahead
With MEAC play ahead, this matchup served as valuable preparation for Coppin State. The Eagles showed promise—especially from their young bench—and continue to grow with every outing.
Expect this team to make noise when conference battles begin.
Coppin’s effort, energy, and improving chemistry were on full display in Philadelphia.
December 7, 2025 – Wilmington, DE
In a matchup filled with pride, history, and high energy, Lincoln University (PA) secured a thrilling 85–77 victory over Cheyney University at the Philadelphia 76ers G-League Affiliate arena, the Chase Fieldhouse. The neutral-site showdown brought out 1,145 fans, creating a big-game atmosphere as both teams delivered a competitive and physical contest from start to finish.
With 19 lead changes and seven ties, this game was anything but predictable.
A Tight First Half
Both teams opened with confidence. Cheyney put together a strong first half behind efficient shooting and steady guard play, scoring 36 points before the break. But Lincoln responded with 40 points, powered by timely three-point shooting and hustle plays.
Jordan Sanders sparked the Lions early, knocking down four threes and finishing with 19 points. Freshman standout Julius Olanrewaju added a smooth and efficient 15 points on 5-of-7 shooting, helping Lincoln control momentum in key stretches.
Cheyney Fights Back
Cheyney’s balanced scoring kept them in striking distance all night:
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S.J. Hutchinson – 17 pts, 4 steals
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Joshua Blackmon – 13 pts, 3 threes
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D’Angelo Lake – 13 pts, 10 rebounds (double-double)
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Clyde Frasier – 13 pts, 4 assists
The Wolves thrived in the paint, scoring 46 interior points, while also adding 15 fast-break points and 13 second-chance points.
BJ Johnson Jr. Takes Over the Second Half
Lincoln’s X-factor was BJ Johnson Jr., who came off the bench and delivered one of the best performances of the season. Johnson scored a game-high 28 points, relentlessly attacking the rim and converting 10 of 13 at the free-throw line.
Whenever Cheyney made a run, Johnson answered—whether it was with a drive, a midrange pull-up, or a clutch steal.
Rebounding & Bench Depth Push Lincoln Ahead
Lincoln controlled the interior battle with a dominant 44–33 rebounding edge. Their bench was equally impactful, outscoring Cheyney’s reserves 35–21.
Other key Lions contributors included:
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Draven Pilson – 6 pts, 7 rebounds
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Gian-Paul Anderson – 9 rebounds, 4 steals
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Kesean Shillingford – perfect 3-for-3 shooting
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Amadou Fall – 5 pts and energy minutes on defense
Lincoln also turned 12 Cheyney turnovers into 18 points, a major deciding factor down the stretch.
Closing Moments
With under four minutes left, the Lions clamped down defensively and hit crucial free throws to seal the win. The atmosphere inside the Chase Fieldhouse intensified as Lincoln executed down the stretch, earning a well-deserved victory.
Lincoln improves to 2–4 (0–0 CIAA), while Cheyney drops to 1–5.
Final Score
Lincoln University (PA) 85
Cheyney University 77
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HBCU ORIGINAL3 weeks agoSouth Carolina State storms back from 28 down, wins 10th-anniversary Cricket Celebration Bowl in four-overtime thriller, 40–38
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HBCU ORIGINAL4 weeks agoCoppin State Shows Growth in Road Challenge at Saint Joseph’s
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HBCU ORIGINAL4 weeks agoJohnson C. Smith Stuns Lincoln (PA) at the Buzzer in Women’s Basketball Thriller at the Chase Fieldhouse
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HBCU ORIGINAL4 weeks agoLincoln Lions Outlast Cheyney in a Back-and-Forth Battle at the Chase Fieldhouse
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HBCU ORIGINAL3 weeks agoOkojie’s Double-Double Lifts Howard Past Drexel in Philadelphia
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HBCU ORIGINAL2 weeks agoDelaware State Shows Fight in Road Matchup vs Saint Joseph’s