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2024 HBCUAC Preseason Men’s Basketball All-Conference Teams and Rankings Announced

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The Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) has announced its 2024 Preseason Men’s Basketball All-HBCUAC First and Second Teams, along with the Preseason Team Rankings, as selected by the conference’s head men’s basketball coaches. The player and team points are based on rankings submitted by each coach.

After a standout freshman season, Jamal Gibson from Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) has been named the 2024 Preseason HBCUAC Men’s Basketball Player of the Year, earning 51 votes. Gibson’s impressive stats from last season include an average of 21.0 points, 15.8 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game, setting SUNO records for points (630), rebounds (474), and double-doubles (29). He received numerous accolades, including GCAC Player and Freshman of the Year, as well as selections to the NAIA All-American Third Team and Louisiana Sports Writer Association All-Louisiana Third Team.

 

The remainder of the First Team roster includes:

  • Raymond Reece, Philander Smith University: Averaged a double-double with 16 points and 10.3 rebounds per game; recognized as an All-Defensive Team and First Team All-Conference Selection.
  • Tory Cargo, Dillard University: Contributed 15.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game; earned 2023-24 First Team All-Conference honors.
  • Antonio Patterson, Tougaloo College: Recorded 12.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, and two assists per game.
  • Tyon Thompson, Southern University at New Orleans: Previously at Fisk University, achieved Second Team All-Conference honors with averages of 14.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game.

Preseason All-HBCUAC Second Team members include Jalil Langston (University of the Virgin Islands), Demarius Pitts (Wiley University), Armond Williams (Dillard), Amorey Womack (Philander Smith), and Michael Ashley (Fisk).

The 2024 Preseason Team Rankings also feature projections from head men’s basketball coaches. Philander Smith University, the reigning GCAC Men’s Basketball Champions, leads the rankings with 140 points and four first-place votes. Tougaloo College, the regular-season champion, is a close second with 129 points and four first-place votes. The full preseason rankings are as follows:

  1. Philander Smith University – 140 (4)
  2. Tougaloo College – 129 (4)
  3. Talladega College – 116
  4. Dillard University – 113 (2)
  5. Stillman College – 110 (1)
  6. Southern University at New Orleans – 97
  7. Wiley University – 92 (1)
  8. Rust College – 65
  9. Fisk University – 62
  10. Voorhees University – 51
  11. University of the Virgin Islands – 40
  12. Wilberforce University – 39
  13. Oakwood University – 38

We are dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring legacy of Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our mission is to provide a platform that honors the invaluable contributions of HBCUs to higher education, social justice, and community empowerment. Through insightful articles, engaging narratives, and meaningful dialogue, we strive to amplify the voices, experiences, and achievements within the HBCU community. By fostering awareness, appreciation, and support for HBCUs, we aspire to inspire current and future generations to pursue excellence, equity, and inclusivity in education and beyond.

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From HBCU to NFL Pro Bowl Pick: KhaDarel Hodge’s Inspiring Journey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Delaware State Falls to Saint Joseph’s 76-58:Kaseem Watson scored a game-high 23 points

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Delaware State falls to Saint Joseph’s in a 76-58 defeat, as Erik Reynolds II’s 22 points powered the Hawks to victory on Saturday in Philadelphia.

Reynolds led the way for Saint Joseph’s (9-4), shooting 6-of-16 from the field, including 4-of-13 from beyond the arc, and hitting all six of his free throws. Rasheer Fleming added a dominant performance with 13 points, 14 rebounds, five assists, and three steals, while Dasear Haskins chipped in 12 points on 6-of-12 shooting.

The Hornets (7-7) were paced by Kaseem Watson, who scored a game-high 23 points and recorded three steals. Martez Robinson added 13 points, seven rebounds, and two steals, while Muneer Newton contributed 10 points and six rebounds.

Saint Joseph’s grabbed the lead with 15:43 left in the first half and never looked back, heading into halftime with a 33-20 advantage. Reynolds scored eight points in the first half and added 14 more after the break to secure the win for the Hawks.

HBCU Original was onsite covering the game, bringing fans exclusive updates and highlights from the matchup.

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No. 2 Penn State Sweeps Delaware State to Advance In NCAA Volleyball Tournament

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What an incredible season it has been for Delaware State University’s volleyball team! Their remarkable journey through the 2024 NCAA Tournament has made history and inspired a whole Hornet fan community. From clinching the MEAC Championship to making a splash on the national stage, this team has shown what dedication, resilience, and teamwork can achieve. Delaware State University’s volleyball team made history this season with an impressive 2024 NCAA Tournament run that captured the hearts of Hornet fans and put the program on the national map. The team’s journey showcased their talent, resilience, and unwavering determination to compete against some of the nation’s best.

Dominating the 2024 MEAC Championship

The Hornets entered the NCAA Tournament as champions of the 2024 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), a title they clinched with a thrilling victory in the conference championship. Their dominant performance throughout the season culminated in an electrifying MEAC tournament, where standout players like [Player Name], the MEAC Player of the Year, and [Player Name], the conference’s Defensive Specialist of the Year, led the charge. Head coach [Coach’s Name] orchestrated a balanced attack and a tenacious defense, making the Hornets a formidable force.

First-Round Challenge Against Penn State

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – No. 2 Penn State Women’s Volleyball hit .456 as it cruised to a 3-0 (25-4, 25-20, 25-18) sweep over Delaware State in the opening round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament on Friday night at Rec Hall. The Nittany Lions improved to 30-2, while the Hornets closed their season at 17-14. Delaware State, which advanced to the NCAA Tournament as the MEAC champion for the second time in three seasons, was led by Valeria Otero and Gerren Tomlin with six kills apiece. Tomlin and Paige Ahakuelo each had three aces. Despite the loss, the Hornets fought hard against a dominant Penn State team.

Penn State’s strong serving gave Delaware State fits, as the Nittany Lions piled up 12 aces, with Jess Mruzik contributing four and Ava Falduto and Anjelina Starck adding three each. The Hornets were held to .080 hitting as Penn State’s defense, led by Gillian Grimes with 14 digs, proved to be a significant challenge. Delaware State’s resilience and effort in the face of such a formidable opponent reflected their growth and determination as a program.

A Bright Future Ahead

This historic run signals a new era for Delaware State volleyball. With a core group of talented underclassmen and a strong recruiting class on the horizon, the program is poised for continued success. The Hornets’ 2024 NCAA Tournament appearance not only elevated the team’s profile but also shone a spotlight on the university’s commitment to athletic excellence. As the Hornets look to build on this year’s achievements, they’ve set a new standard for the program and inspired a new generation of athletes to dream big. The Delaware State community can’t wait to see what’s next for this rising powerhouse.

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Ray Ray Award for Defensive Player of the Year: HBCU Nominees

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URA Sports Show Introduces the Ray Ray Award for Defensive Player of the Year: HBCU Nominees

In a groundbreaking move that puts the power in the hands of the fans, URA Sports Show proudly announces the creation of the Ray Ray Award – Defensive Player of the Year. This prestigious honor celebrates exceptional defensive performances in college football, allowing fans—not media insiders or sportswriters—to choose who truly stands out on the defensive side of the ball.

Why the Ray Ray Award?

The Ray Ray Award was inspired by the legendary legacy of one of football’s most iconic defenders. While legal restrictions prevented using the exact name, the award pays homage to a relentless, game-changing spirit reminiscent of Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis of the Baltimore Ravens.

How It Works

The selection process is refreshingly simple and democratic:

Nominees Announced: Throughout the college football season, standout defensive players will be nominated based on their on-field dominance, leadership, and game-altering plays.

Fan Voting: Fans will vote online to decide who deserves the title of the year’s best defensive player. The power rests entirely in the hands of the people who live and breathe college football.

What the Award Represents

The Ray Ray Award isn’t just about stats—it’s about heart, grit, and the will to dominate. It’s a platform to pay homage to top athletes who are household names and athletes who may not get the traditional media spotlight but prove themselves as forces to be reckoned with.

When and Where

The inaugural Ray Ray Award winner will be announced during the highly anticipated URA Sports Awards Show hosted by NFL Veteran Derrick Tatum and CEO of Elite Talent Football Podcast. The night will be dedicated to recognizing the most electrifying college football performances at the FBS and HBCU levels, with plans to expand to FCS, Div 2, and High School in the future.

Get Involved!

Stay tuned for updates on nominees and voting dates by following the URA Sports Show (@urafootballshow) and Elite Talent Football (@elitetalentfootball) on social media and on our website, www.underrecruitedathlete.com.

HBCU Ray Ray Award Nominees

Kenny Gallop Jr.
Position: Defensive Back (DB)
Class: Graduate Student
Hometown: Portsmouth, Virginia

Kenny Gallop Jr., a standout defensive back for Howard University, has had a remarkable collegiate career. Gallop’s achievements include being a three-time HBCU All-American, a rarity for defensive players, and receiving the 2023 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year award. Over his career, he has tallied 325 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 15 pass breakups, and multiple sacks and forced turnovers.

Gallop has also been named to prestigious watch lists such as the Buck Buchanan Award and was selected to participate in the 2025 HBCU Legacy Bowl, a showcase for top talent. These accolades underscore his impact and leadership on the field, as he consistently excelled in both defense and team dynamics.

Ckelby Givens
Position: Defensive Back (DL)
Class: Junior
Hometown:  Shreveport, Louisiana

Ckelby Givens, a standout defensive lineman for Southern University, has been a dominant force in the SWAC conference. His exceptional performances throughout the 2024 season earned him the title of SWAC Co-Defensive Player of the Year, sharing the honor with Grambling State’s Andrew Jones. Givens has also been a finalist for the prestigious HBCU+ National Player of the Year Award, showcasing his impact within the conference and across HBCU football nationally.

Known for his strength, agility, and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Givens has consistently disrupted opposing offenses, solidifying his reputation as one of the top defensive players in the FCS. His leadership on the field and ability to make game-changing plays have made him a cornerstone of Southern’s defensive unit.

Andrew Jones
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Redshirt Junior
Hometown:  Marrero, Louisiana

Andrew Jones, a standout linebacker for Grambling State University, had an extraordinary 2024 season that earned him national recognition. A redshirt junior from Marrero, Louisiana, Jones recorded 122 total tackles, 20.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks. His performance placed him first in tackles within the SWAC and sixth nationally, with his tackles for loss ranking second in the conference and fourth in FCS football. He also contributed one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and a defensive touchdown, highlighting his versatility and playmaking ability.

Jones was named the SWAC Co-Defensive Player of the Year and was a finalist for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award, which recognizes the top defensive player in Division I FCS football. Throughout the season, he delivered double-digit tackles in 10 of 12 games, including a season-high 15 against Alabama A&M. Additionally, he was a three-time SWAC Defensive Player of the Week honoree, and a finalist for the HBCU+ Player of the Year Award, solidifying his position as one of the top defensive players in the country.

Jalen McClendon
Position: Defensive Back (DB)
Class: Redshirt Junior
Hometown:  Tampa, Florida

Jalen McClendon is a standout defensive back for Tennessee State University. This season, he has showcased his talent in the Tigers’ secondary with 53 total tackles, 45 of them solo. He also tallied 12 pass breakups and an interception, demonstrating his ability to disrupt plays and provide substantial coverage. McClendon achieved much of this while playing through a hand injury, underscoring his resilience and commitment.

His performances earned him a spot on the HBCU+ Player of the Year Watchlist and recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award, which honors the best defensive player in FCS football. These accolades highlight his impact on the field and his potential as a Tennessee State defense leader.

Elijah Williams
Position: Defensive Lineman (DL)
Class: Senior
Hometown: Jersey City, New Jersey

Elijah Williams, a senior defensive lineman at Morgan State University, has cemented his legacy as one of the program’s most dominant players. Standing at 6’3″ and weighing 270 pounds, the Jersey City, NJ native was named the 2024 MEAC Defensive Player of the Year. Williams recorded an impressive 11 sacks this season, ranking 8th nationally, along with 15 tackles for loss, three interceptions, and 32 total tackles. His contributions helped lead Morgan State to its best season in a decade, finishing 6-6 overall and 3-2 in MEAC play.

Over his career, Williams set Morgan State’s all-time records for both sacks (31.0) and tackles for loss (52.0). His versatility and big-play ability extended beyond traditional defensive stats, including a blocked field goal and creating turnovers. His efforts earned him recognition as a finalist for the prestigious Buck Buchanan Award and the honor of the HBCU+ National Player of the Year.

Rico, Dozier
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Senior
Hometown: Abbeville, Alabama

Rozier Dozier, a linebacker for Alabama State University, is an accomplished player with a proven track record in college football. Originally hailing from Abbeville, Alabama, he transferred from the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff, where he earned multiple accolades, including All-SWAC and Phil Steele All-SWAC honors. In 2023, he led the SWAC with 125 tackles and contributed 2.5 sacks and 6.5 tackles for loss, showcasing his ability to make impactful plays in the backfield and across the field.

At Alabama State, Dozier continues to be a key defensive leader, with his relentless playing style and high football IQ making him a standout in the SWAC and beyond.

Stemarion, Edwards
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Senior
Hometown: Hollandale, Mississippi

Stemarion Edwards is a linebacker for Alcorn State University. Known for his athleticism and versatility, Edwards has been a key contributor to the Braves’ defense. He demonstrates strong tackling ability and field awareness, contributing to stopping the run and defending against passes. Edwards’s leadership and high football IQ have made him a standout on the field, helping anchor the team’s defensive unit in crucial moments. His performance highlights his potential as a reliable playmaker in collegiate football.

 

AJ, Richardson
Position: Linebacker (LB)
Class: Sophomore
Hometown:  Kings Mountain, North Carolina

AJ Richardson, a standout linebacker for Norfolk State University, has made waves with his exceptional performances in the 2024 season. A Kings Mountain, North Carolina, Richardson sophomore led the MEAC in total tackles with an impressive 100 stops, including 30 solo tackles. His breakout game came against Towson, where he recorded a career-high 18 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and an interception that set up a Norfolk State touchdown. This dominant display earned him the Stats Perform FCS National Defensive Player of the Week award.

His consistent play throughout the season secured him First-Team All-MEAC honors, highlighting his growing reputation as a Spartan defensive force. With his instinctive playmaking ability and relentless motor, Richardson has become a cornerstone of Norfolk State’s defense and one of the top linebackers in the conference.

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The JUCO Comeback: Diego Pavia Defeats the NCAA, Joe Thomas Sr. the Poster Child for ‘I Still Got It!

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In a surprising twist that’s shaking up college football, the NCAA has found itself in the middle of a significant eligibility shake-up — and it’s all thanks to a landmark legal case involving a player who probably hasn’t been on most fans’ radar. Enter Diego Pavia, whose legal battle with the NCAA over his JUCO eligibility is why former players across the country are suddenly dusting off their old cleats and asking, “If Diego can do it, why can’t I?”

Pavia, a former JUCO quarterback, defeated the NCAA in court, securing a monumental victory for players who’ve spent time in junior college but were previously told their eligibility was shot after too many years had passed. The court issued an injunction, effectively allowing Pavia to continue his college career despite being out of the game for several years. And while Pavia’s case was all about fairness for JUCO players, it had an unintended side effect — the rise of a new generation of “washed-up” former players coming out of retirement to reclaim their eligibility.

The Lawsuit That Changed Everything

In what is being called a “game-changer” by legal experts, Diego Pavia’s victory has opened the door for a wave of former JUCO players to declare, “Hey, I’ll get it suddenly!” Pavia filed a lawsuit after the NCAA refused to grant him eligibility, citing an obscure rule that prevented players who’d been out of college football for too long from getting their eligibility back. But the court didn’t see it that way. The ruling was clear: JUCO players deserve the same four years of eligibility, no matter how much time has passed.

Pavia’s victory sent shockwaves through the world of college sports, and suddenly, every former JUCO athlete with a few grey hairs and a dad bod began to rethink their retirement plans.

 

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Joe Thomas Sr. Becomes the New Poster Child for “I Can Still Play!”

And here’s where things get genuinely hilarious. While Pavia’s case was about fairnessit’s Joe Thomas Sr. who became the unintentional poster child for this new wave of players. If you haven’t heard of Joe Thomas Sr., he’s about to be your new hero — and probably the last person you’d expect to inspire a generation of older, “washed-up” football players.

In his late 40s, Thomas made history as the oldest player to ever play in a Division I football game, suiting up as a running back for HBCU MEAC member South Carolina State University — the team that was the runner-up in the 2024 Black College Football Championship Celebration Bowl just a week ago in Atlanta, Georgia. At 47 years old, Thomas wasn’t exactly burning up the field, but with sheer determination and the legal win from Diego Pavia’s case, Joe Thomas Sr. proved that age is just a number and there’s always room for a little more football. He wasn’t sprinting down the field, but he was running. Slowly, yes — but running nonetheless.

And now, thanks to Pavia’s case, older athletes — some who haven’t played in years — are desperate to follow in Thomas’ footsteps.

 

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A New Era of “Senior” JUCO Comebacks

Just imagine the scene: Bob “The Bulldozer” from the Class of 1997, who hasn’t touched a football since his last campus kegger, suddenly jumps on Facebook and posts a picture of his high school highlight reel, claiming, “Hey, Joe Thomas Sr. did it. I’m ready for my comeback.” You might even catch Terry “The Tornado” from 2002 hitting up coaches on LinkedIn to see if they need a “veteran” player with lots of wisdom and a few extra pounds.

All these “veteran” players now have Diego Pavia’s lawsuit to thank and Joe Thomas Sr.’s legendary comeback story. There’s a whole new crop of 40-something men who now think they can still make it, and they’ll be referencing Joe Thomas Sr. as the prime example of why age is just a number.

The NCAA’s Worst Nightmare: The Rise of the Senior League

The NCAA never could have predicted this: a flood of older players showing up at their doorsteps, paperwork in hand, demanding to be let back into college football. Thanks to Pavia and Thomas, the NCAA is now facing a new problem: how to handle an influx of athletes who have been out of the game for years, if not decades, but now want to take advantage of the rule change.

“Coach, I’m 45, but if you put me on the field, I’ll show you a thing or two,” might just be the following line you hear from the new batch of JUCO hopefuls. And college football programs? They’re about to be flooded with email inquiries from players who were once “too old” but now have a new lease on their football careers.

Thanks to Diego Pavia’s legal win, the NCAA’s new ruling, and the unexpected rise of Joe Thomas Sr. as the face of “I Still Got It,” we’re about to enter an extraordinary era of college football. A new wave of former JUCO players, who have long since hung up their helmets, are now determined to return to the field. Whether it’s Bob “The Bulldozer or Terry “The Tornado, expect to see a lot more grey-haired players showing up to recruit camps, proclaiming they’ve got “untapped potential — and that Joe Thomas Sr. paved the way for them to show it.

Who knows? The next Joe Thomas Sr. might be an ex-JUCO player sitting on a recliner right now, talking about how “he was the best running back in his prime — and now, with the new NCAA rule, that prime might extend a few more years.

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