Sports
David Wright III: A Tampa-Bred Star Shines in the SIAC Spotlight
David Wright III, Clark Atlanta University’s electrifying quarterback, has achieved what few can boast—winning back-to-back SIAC Overall Player of the Year awards. His standout 2024 season, where he passed for 2,915 yards (ranking fifth nationally in Division II) and threw 28 touchdowns, has solidified his status as one of the most exciting players in college football. Wright’s incredible journey from Tampa Bay Tech High School to Clark Atlanta is a testament to his resilience, work ethic, and talent.
As a quarterback who transcends expectations, Wright, who began his college career at Allen University, transferred to Clark Atlanta with a vision: to elevate his game and lead his team to prominence. This year, he completed 62% of his passes and continued to develop into a dual-threat weapon. Known for his ability to extend plays, his pocket instincts, and a cannon of an arm, Wright is the definition of a playmaker. Scouts rave about his accuracy, mobility, and ability to hit his receivers in stride, particularly on mid-range throws, earning him the nickname “Midrange Maestro.” His Tampa roots shared with Ronnie West, Clark Atlanta’s star receiver, have helped forge an unstoppable connection on the field. The Tampa duo has become a dynamic pairing, transforming the Panthers’ aerial attack into one of the most lethal in the conference.
Wright’s success stands out in a season filled with remarkable SIAC performances. Albany State quarterback Isaiah Knowles captured Offensive Player of the Year honors after throwing for 2,555 yards and a league-high 32 touchdowns. Meanwhile, Lashon Young of Miles College earned Defensive Player of the Year, leading all of Division II with seven interceptions, showcasing the caliber of defensive talent in the SIAC.
Albany State’s freshman running back Tiant Wyche and Allen University’s newcomer Jamir Dismukes also made waves, with Wyche excelling as a dual-threat rusher and returner and Dismukes adding six touchdowns to Allen’s offensive efforts. Rounding out the awards, Miles head coach Sam Shade was named Coach of the Year for leading the Golden Bears to an 8-0 conference record.
As the NFL Draft looms, Wright III’s football journey is a compelling narrative of grit, growth, and undeniable talent. Wright’s on-field dominance has drawn comparisons to Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray. Scouts praise Wright’s ability to operate under pressure, lightning-quick release, and knack for threading tight windows. While some critics cite his frame as a limitation, Wright has consistently proven that size is no barrier to success. His leadership and poise have made him a late-round steal prospect, with NFL teams undoubtedly taking notice.
With back-to-back SIAC Player of the Year awards, Wright is ready to carry the HBCU on his back as he could hoist the stature again. With standout performances like Wright’s, the conference continues to demonstrate that it can produce elite athletes ready for the national stage. His success at Clark Atlanta is part of a more significant trend of HBCUs reclaiming their place in the national spotlight. From producing NFL talents like Tariq Cohen and Shaquille Leonard to showcasing high-level competition in events like the Celebration Bowl, HBCUs are earning widespread respect. Players like Wright represent their schools and highlight the quality of coaching, competition, and development within HBCU programs. The growing visibility of HBCU athletes is also supported by initiatives such as the NFL’s HBCU Combine and partnerships with major media networks. These platforms ensure players like Wright can showcase their skills to NFL scouts, reinforcing that HBCUs remain a vital pipeline of football talent.
With stars like Wright leading the charge, the legacy of HBCU football is entering a new golden era—where its athletes make history and inspire future generations to carry the torch forward.
A basketball icon and pioneering voice for HBCUs, Dr. Dick Barnett passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 26, 2025, in Largo, Florida. He was 88.
Known for his signature phrase, “Fallback, Baby,” Barnett’s name resonated far beyond the court. To generations of sports fans at historically Black colleges and universities, those words symbolized confidence, excellence, and perseverance. His legacy—built on championships, education, and advocacy—continues to inspire.
A Titan at Tennessee A&I
Before making his mark in the NBA, Barnett dominated college basketball at Tennessee A&I (now Tennessee State University). Under legendary coach John McLendon, he led the Tigers to an unprecedented three consecutive NAIA national championships from 1957 to 1959—becoming the first college program at any level to achieve a three-peat.
A three-time All-American and two-time tournament MVP, Barnett’s scoring ability and fearless style made him a national standout. His No. 35 jersey remains the only one ever retired by Tennessee State, honoring his role in putting HBCU basketball on the national map.
NBA Champion and “Fallback” King
Barnett’s professional career began with the Syracuse Nationals and the Los Angeles Lakers, but it was with the New York Knicks where he found true stardom. Joining the team in 1965, he played a pivotal role in delivering the Knicks’ championship titles in 1970 and 1973.
In the iconic 1970 NBA Finals, while Willis Reed’s courageous Game 7 entrance made headlines, it was Barnett who delivered a clutch performance with 21 points and crucial defense against Jerry West. His high-arcing, unorthodox jump shot—complete with a signature “fallback” motion—became his trademark and a nightmare for defenders.
Scholar, Mentor, and Hall of Famer
Beyond basketball, Barnett was a passionate educator and role model. He earned a doctorate in education from Fordham University and later taught at St. John’s. His impact reached well beyond the court as he mentored countless students and used his story to motivate others to chase both academic and athletic greatness.
In 2024, Barnett’s remarkable career was immortalized with his induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame—a crowning achievement for a man whose life transcended sports.
Dr. Dick Barnett’s journey showed the world that greatness can be achieved through purpose, perseverance, and pride in one’s roots. As HBCU fans and alumni mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life lived boldly.
Let’s not just remember him—let’s follow him. Fall back. Rise up.
Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett is speaking out after Tougaloo College, a historically Black college in Mississippi, received threatening calls following her keynote address at the school’s recent commencement ceremony.
According to a statement from Tougaloo College President Donzell Lee, the school is investigating “concerning calls” made after the May 2025 graduation ceremony. “We are not taking these occurrences lightly,” Lee wrote in a letter to the campus community. “Appropriate actions have been taken. Contact has been made with law enforcement authorities to ensure that safety protocols are in place, if needed.” He also urged students, staff, and faculty to report any suspicious behavior to campus authorities.
In response, Rep. Crockett condemned the threats and pointed to political motivations behind them. “No low is too low for MAGA,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Now explain to me why an institution would be receiving threats because of the commencement speech that I GAVE. This type of behavior is why I’m constantly having to be protected. Sadly, truth-telling in this country is a dangerous business—but college students don’t deserve this.”
Crockett, who received an honorary doctorate from fellow Congressmember and Tougaloo alum Rep. Bennie Thompson, was invited to speak about the legacy of civil rights at the university. In her speech, she highlighted the historic contributions of the Tougaloo Nine and iconic civil rights figures like Anne Moody and Memphis Norman. She also drew comparisons between the past and present struggles for justice, emphasizing that today’s students continue that fight by simply pursuing education in a polarized climate.
“To think that people have to be fearful of a sitting member of Congress speaking to graduates tells us that we still have a lot of work to do,” Crockett said during the speech. Still, she left the graduates with a message of encouragement: “Your moment is now. This country is relying on each and every one of you to walk into your purpose and to walk in greatness with your head held high. You absolutely belong.”
Tougaloo College, known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, stands firm amid the controversy. “As always, your continuing safety is our primary concern,” President Lee said, reaffirming the school’s commitment to its students.
The incident highlights the ongoing tension surrounding race, politics, and free speech in America—even in spaces meant to celebrate achievement and legacy.
By HBCU Gameday Staff
One of the NFL’s most dominant forces off the edge just made his most meaningful move off the field—and it came straight from the heart.
Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, recently visited Hampton University not only as a football superstar but as a proud son returning to honor the legacy of family and education. Garrett’s connection to the Virginia-based HBCU runs deep: his mother, Audrey Garrett, was an All-American track athlete at Hampton and later built a successful career in education and law. Her journey began on this very campus.
To pay tribute to those roots, Garrett donated $25,000 to Hampton University. But for him, the gift was more than a monetary gesture—it was a reflection of legacy, gratitude, and a belief in the power of HBCU education to shape future leaders.
Garrett’s visit wasn’t just about writing a check. He also took part in a thought-provoking panel discussion alongside Brandon Martin, CEO of Johnson Energy Storage. Together, they encouraged students to pursue careers in STEM and explore passions beyond sports. Their message was clear: there is life beyond the game, and it’s filled with purpose and opportunity.
“Always continue to grow… Love what you do. Find what you are passionate about,” Garrett urged the students.
His words resonated—and so did his presence. A six-time Pro Bowler and former No. 1 overall NFL Draft pick out of Texas A&M, Garrett has made a name for himself chasing quarterbacks. But at Hampton, he reminded everyone that true success includes giving back, lifting others, and honoring those who paved the way.
For HBCU students and fans alike, Garrett’s visit was a powerful reminder: greatness isn’t just built on stats—it’s built on legacy, leadership, and heart.
Let’s hear it for the PENN RELAYS Men’s High Jump Champion, Ja’Mari Manson from Delaware State University! 🏆🐝
With a jaw-dropping leap of 2.15 meters (7 feet, 0.5 inches), Ja’Mari soared into the history books, bringing home the gold and making his Hornet Nation proud! 💪🏾💛❤️
🔥 And let’s give love to the other HBCU athletes who showed up and showed out at the Penn Relays:
-
Theodore Skinner of North Carolina Central University, grabbing 2nd place with a 2.10m jump! 🦅
-
Jonathan Raijon-Koger, also repping N.C. Central, clearing 2.05m and putting in that work on the runway!
-
Andrew Betton from Coppin State University, holding it down with a solid 1.95m jump. 🦅
💯 These HBCU athletes proved once again—we don’t just participate, we DOMINATE.
Salute to all the HBCU talent that continues to elevate the game, break records, and carry legacy with every stride and every jump. 🎓🔥
Friday’s 100m hurdles heats were fast, technical, and packed with powerhouse performances—but it was the HBCU excellence that made serious noise on the track. Two of our very own will be advancing to the Championship of America Final on Saturday at 3:30 PM.
🎯 Advancing to the Final:
🏃🏽♀️ Brooklyn Robinson – Norfolk State University
⏱ 13.25 | Heat 3 (2nd Place) | Qualifies by time (q)
Brooklyn Robinson came out strong, staying smooth between the hurdles and finishing with the second-fastest time overall. She showed poise and power representing Spartan Nation on the biggest collegiate relay stage. 🟢🟡
🏃🏽♀️ Marcia Sey – Howard University
⏱ 13.29 | Heat 1 (1st Place) | Automatic Qualifier (Q)
A dominant start and a clean flight over the hurdles secured Sey’s heat win. Her performance placed her among the top 3 hurdlers of the day and continues Howard’s incredible showing at this year’s Penn Relays. 🦬🔥
🔍 Other HBCU Highlights:
Jazmyn Wajd – Howard University
⏱ 13.86 | Heat 2 (6th Place)
A solid run in a competitive section, showing Howard’s depth in the hurdles. While she didn’t advance, she held her own with grace and grit.
Aisha Carrington – Lincoln University (PA)
⏱ 14.07 | Heat 1 (5th Place)
Representing the DII powerhouse, Carrington ran a clean race and continues to be a force for Lincoln’s growing sprint squad.
🏁 Final Word:
With two HBCU athletes advancing to the final — Norfolk State’s Brooklyn Robinson and Howard’s Marcia Sey — the message is loud and clear: our hurdlers are elite. Saturday’s final promises to be one to remember, and we’ll be watching as these queens take their place in the spotlight.
-
Campus3 weeks ago🎢 HBCU Original Presents: Top Amusement Parks to Visit by Region – For HBCU Students, Alumni & Families 🎡
-
Sports3 weeks agoNFL Star Myles Garrett Honors HBCU Roots with Major Gift to Hampton University
-
Sports3 weeks agoJasmine Crockett Responds to Threats Sent to HBCU After Her Commencement Speech
-
Campus3 weeks agoMarcus Thompson Resigns as Jackson State University President — Second Leader to Step Down in Two Years
-
Sports3 weeks agoNBA Legend and HBCU Trailblazer Dr. Dick Barnett Passes Away at 88
-
Campus1 week agoMarva Johnson Appointed President of Florida A&M University Amid Widespread Controversy
-
Campus1 week agoHoward University Faces Proposed Budget Cuts Despite Trump’s Assurances to HBCUs
-
HBCU ORIGINAL1 week agoT.D. Jakes Donates $100K to Morris Brown College, Urges Graduates to “Change the World”