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.
MORROW, Ga. — The Morehouse Maroon Tigers men’s basketball are champions once again.
Morehouse defeated the Tuskegee Golden Tigers men’s basketball 66–56 Saturday night at the Clayton County Convocation Center to win the SIAC Men’s Basketball Tournament title, completing a dominant run through the bracket and securing the program’s first tournament championship since 2003.
The victory marks the seventh tournament title for Morehouse in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and sends the Maroon Tigers back to the NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Tournament for the first time since 2018. Morehouse finished the season 22–9 overall.
In his first season leading the program, head coach Larry Dixon set a program milestone with 22 victories — the most ever by a first-year head coach at Morehouse.
The championship also carried special meaning for athletic director Harold Ellis, who became the first Morehouse alum to be part of both a regular-season and tournament championship as a player and later as athletic director.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Tuskegee jumped out early behind perimeter shooting, taking an 8–0 lead after three-pointers from Khalil Genwright and Roy Obsaint.
But Morehouse quickly answered.
Sincere Key sparked the Maroon Tigers off the bench with back-to-back three-pointers and later added a jumper to tie the game at 10–10, igniting the Morehouse offense.
The Maroon Tigers then began attacking inside, with Josiah Lawson scoring on consecutive possessions during a 13–4 run that pushed Morehouse ahead 23–14 midway through the first half.
From there, the lead continued to grow.
Sincere Moore knocked down a pair of three-pointers, and a transition three-point play by Jared White helped extend the advantage. Later, a three from JerMontae Hill and a fast-break layup by Caleb Thompson stretched the lead to 31–16.
Tuskegee closed the half with a late three from R.J. Walker, but Morehouse still carried a comfortable 33–24 lead into halftime.
Tigers Pull Away
Morehouse wasted little time creating separation in the second half.
A three-pointer from Brandon Peters and another from Hill sparked a 9–1 run that pushed the Maroon Tigers ahead 42–25 — their largest lead of the night.
Tuskegee fought back midway through the half behind inside scoring from Anthony Wright and Kusamae Draper, cutting the deficit to 44–34.
But each push was answered.
Key knocked down a deep jumper and Lawson followed with a three-point play to restore a double-digit lead. Moments later, Lawson buried a three-pointer that stretched the margin to 54–38, effectively halting Tuskegee’s comeback hopes.
Morehouse controlled the final minutes with steady defense and disciplined offense to secure the 66–56 victory and the conference crown.
Standout Performances
Lawson led the way with 17 points and four rebounds and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
Moore added 11 points and five rebounds, while Hill finished with 10 points, six rebounds and two steals. Key also contributed 10 points off the bench in the win.
With the championship secured, Morehouse now awaits the selection announcement for the NCAA Division II Tournament as the Maroon Tigers prepare for their return to the national stage.
MORROW, Ga. — The dynasty continues for the Miles College Lady Bears women’s basketball.
Miles held off Lane College Dragons women’s basketball 59–52 to capture the 2025 SIAC Women’s Basketball Tournament championship, securing the program’s third straight conference title and cementing a historic run for the Lady Bears.
With the victory, Miles (25–5) becomes the first program since Fort Valley State Wildcats women’s basketball from 2000–03 to win three consecutive championships in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
The championship game was anything but easy.
Miles jumped out to an early 12-point lead in the first quarter, but Lane battled back and erased the deficit, sending the game into halftime tied at 24.
Lane (22–6) briefly grabbed momentum early in the third quarter after a basket by Lauren Lain gave the Dragons the lead. But Miles responded quickly.
Samarian Franklin buried a three-pointer with 7:17 left in the third to put the Lady Bears back on top, sparking a 9–0 run that shifted the game. Franklin added two free throws during the stretch before finding Mya Millner for a three-point play that pushed the Miles advantage to 33–26.
From that point on, the Lady Bears never trailed again.
Lane cut the deficit to five heading into the fourth quarter, but Makayla Rieves took over down the stretch. After a basket by Shannon Niles gave Miles momentum, Rieves followed with key buckets, including back-to-back scores that extended the lead to 54–46 with just over two minutes remaining.
The Dragons made one last push, trimming the margin to four late in the game. But Nayla Wesley delivered the final blow, converting a three-point play with 1:32 remaining to seal the victory and send the Miles bench into celebration.
Franklin finished with 12 points and four assists and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Rieves added a dominant performance with 11 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks, while Wesley chipped in nine points and seven rebounds.
With the win, Miles advances to its third straight appearance in the NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball Tournament South Region, where the Lady Bears will learn their next opponent when the bracket is announced Sunday night.
For Miles, the championship wasn’t just another win — it was the continuation of a historic run that now stands among the conference’s best.
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — After more than three decades of waiting, Tennessee State Tigers men’s basketball is back on top of the Ohio Valley Conference.
Tennessee State delivered a statement performance Saturday night, rolling past Morehead State Eagles men’s basketball 93–67 at Ford Center to capture the 2026 OVC Men’s Basketball Tournament championship and punch its ticket to the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament.
The Tigers (23–9) overwhelmed Morehead State with a barrage of three-pointers and a dominant presence on the glass, controlling the game from the first half and never looking back.
Guard Antoine Lorick III led a balanced scoring attack with 18 points and two blocks, while Travis Harper II added 17 points. Off the bench, Carlous Williams chipped in 16 points to help fuel the rout.
Tournament MVP Dante Harris delivered a double-double with 16 points and a game-high 11 rebounds, anchoring Tennessee State’s dominance on the boards. Aaron Nkrumah added 11 points and six assists in the win.
Tennessee State controlled the rebounding battle 44–29, including 14 offensive rebounds that led to 14 second-chance points. Defensively, the Tigers locked down Morehead State, holding the Eagles to just 36.2% shooting from the field and 30% from beyond the arc.
The game turned early.
After the teams were tied 7–7, Tennessee State ripped off a 13–0 run midway through the first half, capped by a three-pointer from Nkrumah that pushed the Tigers ahead 20–7. The momentum never shifted back.
By halftime, Tennessee State had already built a commanding 55–34 lead behind a scorching perimeter attack. The Tigers knocked down 12 three-pointers in the opening half alone, accounting for 36 of their points.
The second half was more of the same.
Tennessee State pushed its lead to as much as 28 points late in the game, highlighted by a three from Jc Brooks that made it 93–65 with just over a minute remaining. The Tigers’ bench added key production down the stretch, scoring 15 points in the final period.
Morehead State struggled to keep pace offensively and managed just eight offensive rebounds while producing nine second-chance points.
With the victory, Tennessee State captures its first OVC Tournament title since 1994 and secures the conference’s automatic bid to March Madness.
2026 OVC All-Tournament Team
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Dante Harris, Tennessee State — MVP
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Aaron Nkrumah, Tennessee State
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Travis Harper II, Tennessee State
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George Marshall, Morehead State
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Braxton Stacker, Southeast Missouri
March 1, 2026 – Tuscaloosa, AL – In a thrilling HBCUAC championship showdown, Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) defeated top-seeded Tougaloo University 84-81 in overtime, capturing its first conference title since 2012. The Knights overcame an early 0-7 deficit and multiple double-digit holes in regulation, forcing overtime at 72-72 before taking control in the extra period. In a full-circle moment, SUNO defeated the same opponent they beat 14 years ago to win the championship.
Standout Performances
Dorian Booker dominated inside, scoring 26 points with 14 rebounds and clutch free throws that anchored SUNO’s effort. Donte Briggs contributed 16 points, including perfect 4-of-4 free throws in overtime, while Jaylon Hicks added 12 points and critical defense, including a pivotal three-pointer in OT. Caleb Williams provided steady leadership with 10 points and key late-game free throws, and Jermaine Lawrence anchored the interior defense, limiting Tougaloo’s second-chance opportunities.
Championship-Clutch Moments
Trailing 70-72 in the final seconds of regulation, SUNO tied the game at 72 with clutch free throws from Briggs. Tougaloo’s final shot missed, sending the game to overtime. Hicks’ three-pointer gave SUNO a 75-72 lead, and Williams’ free throw with 0:04 remaining sealed the 84-81 victory.
3/1/26 HBCUAC Men’s Basketball Championship Tournament SUNO vs Tougaloo (Final)
Photo by Trent Spruell
3/1/26 HBCUAC Men’s Basketball Championship Tournament SUNO vs Tougaloo (Final)
Photo by Trent Spruell
3/1/26 HBCUAC Men’s Basketball Championship Tournament SUNO vs Tougaloo (Final)
Photo by Trent Spruell
Coach James A. Matthews, III: A Journey Realized
This championship is especially meaningful for Head Coach James A. Matthews, III, who joined SUNO in 2014 as a volunteer, sweeping floors and washing uniforms. Now, as Director of Athletics and Head Coach, Matthews has guided the Knights from a two-win relaunch season in 2022-23 to HBCUAC champions with a 17-13 record. “This title proves the power of second chances,” Matthews said. “These young men believed when no one else did.”
All-Tournament Honors
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Donte Briggs – Tournament MVP
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Dorian Booker – All-Tournament Team
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Jaylon Hicks – All-Tournament Team
The SUNO Knights now await their opening-round matchup in the 2026 NAIA Championship, carrying the faith, grit, and momentum that fueled their historic HBCUAC victory.
Credit: sunoathletics.com
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BALTIMORE, Md. — Championship games often come down to one thing: who delivers when the pressure peaks. On Saturday inside CFG Bank Arena, Fayetteville State found its closer — and rode him all the way to a title.
Behind a spectacular second-half performance from Terrell Williams, Fayetteville State erased an eight-point halftime deficit to defeat Bluefield State 71–68, capturing the 2026 CIAA Men’s Basketball Championship and securing an automatic berth into the NCAA Atlantic Regional Tournament.
Williams was unstoppable when it mattered most, finishing with 29 points while earning both Food Lion Player of the Game honors and CIAA Tournament MVP recognition. His shot-making, composure, and leadership fueled a comeback that transformed early frustration into championship celebration.
For Fayetteville State (23–6), the victory marked a return to conference supremacy — built on defensive pressure, resilience, and timely execution.
Bluefield State Strikes First
Bluefield State entered the championship loose and confident, playing with the energy of a team embracing the moment. Ellija Preddy led the early charge, scoring from all three levels on his way to a 20-point performance, while Anthony Latty dominated the interior with powerful finishes and second-chance baskets.
The Big Blue surged to a 28–14 advantage, controlling tempo and forcing Fayetteville State into uncomfortable offensive possessions. Even as the Broncos struggled to find rhythm, Williams kept them within striking distance, knocking down two critical three-pointers.
Additional contributions from Darius Boben, Larry Howell, and Travon Cooper helped steady the Broncos, but Bluefield State carried a 40–32 lead into halftime, appearing firmly in control.
The Turning Point
Championship teams respond — and Fayetteville State’s response came immediately after the break.
Williams opened the second half attacking downhill, scoring on a layup before drilling a deep three that reignited the Broncos’ sideline and cut the deficit to a single possession. Though Bluefield State briefly rebuilt its lead behind Latty’s interior presence, momentum was beginning to shift.
Boben ignited the rally with consecutive fastbreak layups sparked by defensive pressure, including a steal from Romeo Aquino that energized the crowd. Moments later, Ezekiel Cannedy buried a momentum-changing three, trimming the gap and forcing Bluefield State onto its heels.
Turnovers began to mount for the Big Blue as Fayetteville State’s defense tightened. Williams calmly sank free throws to pull within one, and Aquino tied the game at the line, completing the comeback.
Then came the defining moment.
Williams attacked the lane for a go-ahead layup — Fayetteville State’s first lead since the opening minutes — flipping the energy inside CFG Bank Arena entirely.
Closing Time
Bluefield State refused to fade quietly. Preddy connected on a contested three with 32 seconds remaining to cut the deficit to two, setting up a tense finish.
But Fayetteville State executed like champions.
Howell delivered the shot of the night earlier in the stretch, drilling a deep left-wing three to give the Broncos control before finishing a transition basket moments later off a Boben steal. Aquino added a clutch free throw in the closing seconds, and Howell secured the final rebound before sealing the victory at the line.
A last-second heave from Bluefield State fell short as the horn sounded, sending Fayetteville State players sprinting onto the court while blue confetti rained down from above.
Championship Identity
The Broncos flipped the game with a dominant 39–28 second half fueled by defense and efficiency. Fayetteville State shot 43.8 percent from three-point range and converted 16 steals into 25 points off turnovers — the difference in a game defined by momentum swings.
Alongside Williams’ 29 points, Howell and Boben each added 14, while Aquino and Cannedy delivered pivotal plays that shifted the contest during its most critical stretch.
Bluefield State’s effort matched the championship stage. Preddy finished with 20 points, Latty recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds, and Myles Pierre added 13 as the Big Blue controlled long stretches offensively. Ultimately, Fayetteville State’s depth and late-game execution proved decisive.
What Comes Next
With the CIAA crown secured, Fayetteville State now turns its focus to the national stage. The Broncos earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Atlantic Regional Tournament and will learn their postseason fate during the NCAA Selection Show on Sunday, March 8, on NCAA.com.
For now, though, the moment belongs to Fayetteville State — a comeback forged through pressure, resilience, and a star performance that will live in CIAA championship history.
The Broncos are champions once again.
2026 CIAA Men’s Basketball All-Tournament Team
Jacob Cooper – Virginia State
Alex Atkinson – Claflin
Larry Howell – Fayetteville State
Julius Olanewaju – Lincoln (PA)
Anthony Davenport – Bluefield State
Malachi Dark – Virginia Union
Terrell Williams – Fayetteville State
Myles Pierre – Bluefield State
K.J. West – Bowie State
Jared Davis – Johnson C. Smith
Tournament MVP: Terrell Williams – Fayetteville State
Team Sportsmanship Award: Johnson C. Smith
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