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Dillard Sweeps Talladega to Claim 2024 HBCUAC Volleyball Championship

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Bossier City, La. [November 13, 2024] – The Dillard University Bleu Devils claimed the 2024 Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) Volleyball Championship with a commanding 3-0 sweep over Talladega College (25-18, 25-23, 25-19) at Billy Montgomery Gymnasium.

Led by standout performances from Cadence Thomas and Gabrielle Washington on defense, and Vanae Sapp and Tyramae Fautanu recording double-doubles, Dillard secured their title in dominant fashion.

Defensive Dominance and Offensive Firepower

The Bleu Devils’ front row defense proved impenetrable, with Thomas contributing two solo blocks and four assists, while Washington added four block assists. Dillard turned away 11 Talladega attacks and held the Tornadoes to a season-low .032 hitting percentage.

Sapp shined offensively with 11 kills and 12 digs, earning her the 2024 HBCUAC Championship Most Valuable Player award. Fautanu chipped in 15 assists and 10 digs. Thomas and Washington added eight and seven kills, respectively.

Trenity Pender anchored the defense with 13 digs and four assists, earning All-Tournament honors. Sara Da Silva also earned All-Tournament recognition, contributing seven kills in the championship match.

Match Recap

  • First Set: After an initial four-point run fueled by Talladega errors, Dillard dominated with a seven-point surge sparked by a kill from Thomas. The Bleu Devils extended their lead to 18-8, capped by a kill from Sapp to clinch the set.
  • Second Set: Dillard started strong with a 7-3 lead, but Talladega rallied with a five-point run. Kills from Da Silva and Thomas helped Dillard regain the edge, and a late push, including a clutch kill from Washington, secured a two-set lead.
  • Third Set: Talladega fought back, with Re’na Ashley leading a charge to a five-point lead. However, Dillard’s resilience prevailed, with critical points from Washington and Da Silva turning the tide. Sapp sealed the title with her 11th kill of the match.

Talladega’s Standouts

Ashley led the Tornadoes with eight kills, followed by Zariah Messick with seven kills and two block assists. Giovana Costarelli dished out 17 assists and three aces, earning All-Tournament honors. Briyith Echeverri tallied 22 digs, while Taquoia Rounds, with 12 digs, also made the All-Tournament Team.

Path Forward

Both Dillard (20-8) and Talladega (25-9) advance to the NAIA Volleyball Championship Opening Round, set for November 23. Their opponents and match locations will be revealed during the NAIA Selection Show, airing at noon on Monday on the Urban Edge Network.


2024 HBCUAC All-Tournament Team

  • MVP: Vanae Sapp, Dillard
  • Sara Da Silva, Dillard
  • Trenity Pender, Dillard
  • Giovana Costarelli, Talladega
  • Taquoia Rounds, Talladega
  • Sydney Willis, Fisk
  • Ja’Niya Sanders, Philander Smith

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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the HBCU Track and Field Showcase Sponsored by KPMG at the NYC Armory

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🏆 The energy was electric at the HBCU Showcase Sponsored by KPMG, held on January 18, 2025, where athletes displayed exceptional talent and determination in track and field events. HBCU Original was on-site to witness the action firsthand and celebrate the achievements of these phenomenal teams and individuals.

This prestigious event brought together HBCUs from across the nation to compete and showcase their athletic excellence. The competition was fierce, and both the women’s and men’s teams delivered outstanding performances.

Women’s Team Scores:

1️⃣ Hampton University – 120
2️⃣ Howard University – 95
3️⃣ Florida A&M University – 80
4️⃣ Prairie View A&M University – 75
5️⃣ Norfolk State University – 66
6️⃣ University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) – 33
7️⃣ Virginia State University – 19
8️⃣ Winston-Salem State University – 14
8️⃣ University of the District of Columbia (UDC) – 14
🔟 Lincoln University (Pa.) – 12
🔟 Coppin State University – 11
🔟 Central State University – 10
🔟 Chicago State University – 9
🔟 Virginia Union University – 6
🔟 Bowie State University – 6
🔟 West Virginia State University – 6
🔟 Morgan State University – 2

Men’s Team Scores:

1️⃣ Norfolk State University – 126.5
2️⃣ Florida A&M University – 62
3️⃣ Coppin State University – 51
4️⃣ Hampton University – 46
5️⃣ Prairie View A&M University – 43.5
6️⃣ University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) – 41
7️⃣ Chicago State University – 39
8️⃣ Virginia Union University – 31
8️⃣ Virginia State University – 31
🔟 Howard University – 22
🔟 Bowie State University – 19
🔟 West Virginia State University – 18
🔟 Morgan State University – 18
🔟 Johnson C. Smith University – 15
🔟 Lincoln University (Pa.) – 12
🔟 Central State University – 9

A Weekend to Remember

FINAL SCORES AND TIME CLICK HERE

From record-breaking performances to personal bests, the athletes left it all on the track, making their schools and fans proud. With the support of KPMG as the event sponsor, the spotlight on HBCU talent continues to grow, shining a well-deserved light on these exceptional institutions.

HBCU Original Coverage

As always, HBCU Original remains committed to highlighting the excellence of HBCU athletics, academics, and culture. Stay tuned for exclusive interviews, event highlights, and more from this memorable event.

👏 Congratulations to all the participating teams and athletes for their dedication and outstanding performances!

#HBCUShowcase, #KPMG, #HBCUOriginal, #HBCUSports, #TrackAndField, #HamptonUniversity, #HowardUniversity, #FloridaA&M, #PrairieViewAM, #NorfolkState, #UMES, #VirginiaState, #WinstonSalemState, #UDC, #LincolnUniversity, #CoppinState, #CentralState, #ChicagoState, #VirginiaUnion, #BowieState, #WestVirginiaState, #MorganState, #JohnsonCSmith

 

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MEAC Women’s Bowling Teams Shine at the Northeast Classic | HBCU Original Coverage

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🎳 This weekend, the lanes are alive with excitement as MEAC Women’s Bowling teams take center stage at the Women’s Bowling Northeast Classic, hosted by Sacred Heart University. The event is being held at the Bowlerama Lanes in New Castle, Delaware, where top teams are showcasing their skills and determination.

Representing the MEAC at this prestigious event are powerhouse teams from:

  • Delaware State University
  • Norfolk State University
  • Morgan State University
  • University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES)
  • North Carolina A&T State University
  • Howard University Bisons

This highly anticipated tournament brings together top collegiate bowling programs from across the region, offering fierce competition and thrilling performances. For fans of HBCU sports, this is a golden opportunity to witness the talent and dedication of these amazing athletes.

HBCU Original is on-site providing exclusive coverage of the action. Be sure to stay connected for updates, match highlights, and standout moments as the weekend unfolds.

📍 Event Details:

  • Event: Women’s Bowling Northeast Classic
  • Host: Sacred Heart University
  • Location: Bowlerama Lanes, New Castle, Delaware
  • Dates: This weekend

Let’s rally behind these incredible HBCU athletes as they compete and represent their schools with pride. Follow HBCU Original for ongoing coverage and support for our teams!

#MEACBowling #HBCUOriginal #WomensBowling #HBCUSports #BowlingNortheastClassic #DelawareState #NorfolkState #MorganState #UMES #NorthCarolinaAT #HowardBisons

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North Carolina A&T head coach Shawn Gibbs unveiled his coaching staff on Monday, featuring familiar faces and strong ties to A&T Aggies history

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GREENSBORO – North Carolina A&T head coach Shawn Gibbs unveiled his coaching staff on Monday, featuring familiar faces and strong ties to A&T Aggies history.

A&T graduate Denzel Jones takes the helm as defensive coordinator, marking his return to Aggieland. Former Howard University quarterback Greg McGhee joins as the offensive coordinator.

Several key members of past A&T coaching staffs are also returning, including offensive line coach Ron Mattes, wide receivers coach Nate Poole, running backs coach Keith Henry, outside linebackers coach Terry Lantz, tight ends coach Stephen Barnette, and assistant linebackers coach Alex Purviance.

Another notable addition is defensive backs coach Tony McRae, a celebrated A&T alumnus and former standout on defense and special teams. Rounding out the staff is defensive line coach OC Williams II, with Theric Holt appointed as the director of football operations.

“I’m thrilled about the staff we’ve put together,” said Gibbs. “Many of them have deep connections to A&T and have excelled in both HBCU football and professional arenas.”

Defensive Coordinator: Denzel Jones

Jones played for A&T from 2012 to 2015, earning Defensive MVP at the inaugural Celebration Bowl. After three successful seasons as Gibbs’ defensive coordinator at Fort Valley State University (FVSU), where the Wildcats led Division II in total defense and rush defense in 2024, he returns to coach A&T’s linebackers alongside his coordinator duties.

Offensive Coordinator: Greg McGhee

McGhee, a former MEAC Offensive Player of the Year (2013, 2014), is a Howard University Hall of Famer. He previously coached quarterbacks and served as passing game coordinator at Howard, following stints at West Liberty University. McGhee remains the MEAC’s all-time leader in total yards and completions. Alongside his coordinator role, he will coach A&T’s quarterbacks.

Returning Coaches

  • Ron Mattes: Returning for his 10th season, Mattes has developed standout offensive linemen, including Atlanta Falcons tackle Brandon Parker.
  • Nate Poole: Since 2020, Poole has mentored top receivers like Zachary Leslie and Ger-Cari Caldwell.
  • Keith Henry: Transitioning from safeties to running backs coach after two seasons.
  • Terry Lantz: Former defensive coordinator at Averett, Lantz previously served A&T under Rod Broadway and Sam Washington.

New and Familiar Faces

  • Tony McRae: A former NFL player and dynamic return specialist during his time at A&T, McRae returns after coaching at NC Central, where he contributed to the 2022 Celebration Bowl victory.
  • OC Williams II and Theric Holt: Both coached under Gibbs at FVSU, contributing to the Wildcats’ dominance in 2024. Williams will coach the defensive line, while Holt transitions to director of football operations.

The Aggies kick off their season on Saturday, August 30, against Tennessee State. With a blend of seasoned coaches and fresh perspectives, Gibbs’ staff aims to elevate A&T football to new heights.

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Jordyn Dorsey Leads Aggies to Fifth Straight Victory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Lincoln Women’s Hoops Bounces Back with Statement Win Over Shaw

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Wilmington, DE – January 4, 2025 – Lincoln University (PA) women’s basketball delivered an offensive masterclass on Saturday, powering past Shaw University 89-78 in a critical CIAA showdown at Goldey-Beacom College.

Senior guard Ciani Montgomery (Philadelphia, Pa./West Catholic Prep) was unstoppable, dropping 27 points on 12-of-18 shooting while adding 7 assists and 5 rebounds to lead the Lions. Fellow senior Anyssa Fields (Long Branch, N.J./Long Branch) nearly notched a double-double, finishing with 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals, while Kaziah Akinniyi (Baltimore, Md./Poly) added 18 points of her own. Freshman Hunter Conway (Belleville, MI/Belleville) chipped in 10 points in a solid supporting role.

Lincoln’s offense was in rhythm from the jump, shooting an impressive 56.7% from the floor and 50% from deep. The Lions dominated the paint with 44 points and capitalized on Shaw’s mistakes, turning 19 turnovers into 21 points. A 51-38 first-half explosion set the tone, and while Shaw made a late push, Lincoln never let the game slip out of their control.

The win moves Lincoln to 6-8 overall and 3-2 in CIAA play, helping the Lions rebound from their previous loss. Up next, they’ll face Fayetteville State University on Saturday, January 6, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Philadelphia, PA, looking to build on this momentum.

Player of the Game: Ciani Montgomery – 27 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds.

Key Stat: Lincoln shot 56.7% from the field, including a blistering 50% from three-point range.

Next Up: Fayetteville State University, January 6, 2025, in Philadelphia, PA.

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