The Women’s 400m Hurdles brought serious competition from powerhouse schools across the country—but the spotlight shined bright on the elite performances coming out of HBCUs. These student-athletes didn’t just participate — they competed, proving that HBCU programs are rich with talent, depth, and drive.

🔥 Top HBCU Performers

Arianna Smith – Howard University
⏱ 57.71 | Heat 1 (3rd)
Smith blazed her way to a top 5 overall finish, making a powerful statement against some of the nation’s top programs. She’s not just running — she’s leading.

Dejah Grant – Hampton University
⏱ 58.01 | Heat 3 (1st)
Winning her heat and placing 7th overall, Grant continues Hampton’s tradition of producing elite sprinters. A name to watch this season.

Lindsay Johnson – Howard University
⏱ 59.07 | Heat 4 (2nd)
Johnson added to Howard’s strong showing with a confident sub-1:00 finish, landing in the top 15.

Chidubem (Miriam) Okwudibonye – Delaware State University
⏱ 59.22 | Heat 4 (3rd)
Representing DSU with pride, Miriam continues to develop into one of the Hornets’ top hurdle threats.

Cenaiya Billups – Howard University
⏱ 59.50 | Heat 5 (2nd)
Billups kept Howard’s momentum rolling, locking in yet another solid sub-minute performance for the Bison squad.

Kayla Spencer – Hampton University
⏱ 59.80 | Heat 3 (5th)
Spencer added another strong showing for Hampton, proving their sprint group is deep and battle-ready.

Daena Dyer – Norfolk State University
⏱ 1:08.00 | Heat 5 (7th)
While not her fastest, Dyer’s determination and grit embody the Spartan spirit on the track.

Aniya Woodruff – Howard University
❌ DNF
Though unable to finish this race, Woodruff remains a key part of Howard’s dynamic hurdle crew.

🏁 HBCU Track Legacy in Motion

Howard University continues to lead the way, putting four athletes under the one-minute mark — a remarkable show of depth and coaching. Hampton followed closely behind with two solid times, while Delaware State and Norfolk State proved they’re building the foundation for future greatness.

In an event stacked with ACC and Big 12 names, these HBCU athletes didn’t just show up — they showed out. Their performances are a reminder that greatness lives and grows at HBCUs every day.

🖤💛 Stay locked in with HBCU Original for more race-day recaps, athlete spotlights, and the stories that keep our legacy alive.

The Men’s 400m Hurdles featured a stacked field with top-tier athletes from powerhouse programs like Pitt, Virginia, and Clemson—but once again, it was the HBCUs that brought energy, pride, and standout performances to the track.

Let’s take a closer look at how our HBCU representatives fared:

🥇 Top HBCU Performers in the 400m Hurdles

Jarrett Gentles – Coppin State University
⏱ 51.00 | Heat 4 (1st)
Gentles ran with poise and power, claiming first in his heat and placing 6th overall in a competitive field. The Coppin State Eagle is making noise and pushing closer to national contention. 🦅🔥

Noah Langford – Howard University
⏱ 51.04 | Heat 1 (4th)
Langford kept the Bison momentum going with a fierce finish just behind Gentles, placing 7th overall. Howard continues to prove it belongs on any stage. 🦬💨

Mohamed Adoini – Johnson C. Smith University
⏱ 51.17 | Heat 3 (1st)
Adoini dominated his heat with confidence, landing just outside the top 8 overall. The Golden Bulls are repping the CIAA with speed and strength. 🐂🏁

Markel Myles – Dillard University
⏱ 52.24 | Heat 1 (5th)
Myles showed great consistency and grit, holding strong in a tough heat. His effort puts Dillard on the map among elite competitors. 💙💪

Alonzo Sims Jr. – Delaware State University
⏱ 53.15 | Heat 5 (6th)
Running with resilience, Sims brought energy and heart, representing the Hornets with pride. 🐝🔔

Benick Akeh – Bowie State University
⏱ 55.39 | Heat 4 (7th)
Akeh closed strong, giving Bowie State a presence in one of the day’s deepest fields. 🐶👏

🎯 Final Thoughts
From MEAC to CIAA, HBCU athletes once again proved they’re more than capable of competing at the highest levels. With multiple sub-52 second finishes and top-10 placements, the 400m hurdles highlighted the skill, discipline, and heart these programs produce.

Stay locked in with HBCU Original as we continue to spotlight the rising stars and elite talent representing our schools across the nation. 🏆✊🏾

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been pillars of academic excellence and cultural legacy. Now, a powerful shift is happening across their athletic departments—former professional athletes are stepping into coaching roles, and their impact is being felt far beyond the scoreboard.

This is more than a trend—it’s a movement.

From the League to the Legacy

It all starts with the names we grew up watching under bright stadium lights—legends who are now pouring their experience back into Black institutions:

• Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, whose revolutionary run at Jackson State University reignited HBCU football’s relevance nationwide.

• DeSean Jackson, now playing a vital mentorship role at Delaware State University (DSU), equipping student-athletes with NFL insight and inspiration.

• Michael Vick, connecting with Norfolk State University (NSU) to provide leadership and national visibility.

And the list doesn’t stop there.

Former Pros Now Leading HBCU Programs

These elite athletes turned coaches are bringing championship mindsets, elite connections, and a deeper sense of purpose to HBCU sports programs:

🏀 Reggie Theus – Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Athletic Director at Bethune-Cookman University. A former NBA All-Star, Theus is building a foundation of excellence both on and off the court.

🏀 Reggie Theus also recently brought visibility to Fisk University by supporting HBCU athletics through outreach and program development.

🏀 Cynthia Cooper-Dyke – Hall of Famer and WNBA legend, now Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Texas Southern University. Her championship pedigree sets a high standard for female athletes.

🏀 Juan Dixon – Former NBA player and NCAA champion, served as Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Coppin State University, leading with passion and hometown pride.

🏈 Sean Gilbert – Former NFL Pro Bowler and now Head Football Coach at Livingstone College, bringing toughness and structure to the gridiron.

🏀 Laura Harper – Former WNBA player and NCAA champ, serving as Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Coppin State University. She’s building a winning culture while mentoring strong, intelligent women.

🏀 Lindsey Hunter – Former NBA guard and champion, Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Mississippi Valley State University, bringing pro-level standards to his squad.

🏀 George Lynch – Former NBA forward and UNC standout, now Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Clark Atlanta University. His leadership is helping student-athletes excel both athletically and academically.

🏀 Elaine Powell – Former WNBA star, now leading the charge as Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Langston University. She’s creating fierce competitors on the hardwood.

🏈 Tyrone Wheatley – Former NFL running back and Michigan standout, now Head Football Coach at Morgan State University. Wheatley brings grit, leadership, and recruiting vision to the Bears.

🏀 Maurice “Mo” Williams – NBA Champion and now Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Alabama State University. Williams is building a powerhouse through player development and discipline.

Why This Matters

This influx of former pro athletes into HBCU coaching roles is transformative:

• Recruiting Power: High school athletes are more likely to choose HBCUs when coached by names they admire.

• National Attention: Media and sponsors are tuning in, bringing money, recognition, and momentum to Black college programs.

• Career Development: These coaches bring industry insight, guiding student-athletes on paths that extend far beyond the game.

• Cultural Upliftment: These leaders are restoring pride in HBCU athletics, rooted in community and excellence.

It’s Bigger Than the Game

These coaches aren’t just chasing championships—they’re shaping futures. They’re turning overlooked programs into powerhouses and giving Black athletes an opportunity to thrive within their own culture. They’re proving that HBCUs are not just a stepping stone, but a destination for greatness.

Their message is clear: You don’t have to go elsewhere to be seen, respected, or developed. You can do it right here—at an HBCU.

Final Word: Building Legacy Through Leadership

From Deion Sanders to Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, Reggie Theus to Tyrone Wheatley, these former pros are rewriting the script for HBCU athletics. They’re not just coaching—they’re cultivating a culture of confidence, excellence, and possibility.

This is how we change the game.

This is how we invest in our future.

This is how we win.

BOWIE, MD — The energy was electric at Bowie State University as fans, students, alumni, and future Bulldogs gathered for an unforgettable day of football, fellowship, and Bulldog pride. On April 19, 2025, BSU hosted its annual Spring Football Game, a much-anticipated tradition that not only offered a sneak peek into the team’s upcoming season but also doubled as an Alumni Game and Junior Day.

This year’s event went beyond just football. It was a celebration of community and culture — a powerful reminder of why HBCU traditions run deep. From tailgates to touchdowns, the spirit of the Bulldog Nation was on full display.

Alumni Came Home

BSU alumni showed up and showed out, reconnecting with former teammates, sharing stories of their time on campus, and cheering on the next generation of Bulldogs. Their presence added a legacy-filled atmosphere, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to return and support the program that helped shape their lives.

Future Bulldogs on Deck

The Junior Day initiative welcomed prospective student-athletes and their families, giving them a first-hand look at Bowie State’s facilities, coaching staff, academic offerings, and unmatched school spirit. The event made a lasting impression, with many attendees already envisioning themselves in black and gold.

The Game Itself

The Spring Game featured competitive energy as offense and defense battled it out in front of a packed stadium. New talent emerged, and returning stars reminded everyone why BSU remains a powerhouse in HBCU football. Coaches used the opportunity to evaluate team chemistry, try out new formations, and get a sense of what the 2025 season could bring.

HBCU Original Coverage

HBCU Original was on the scene, capturing every moment — from exclusive interviews with players and coaches, to crowd reactions and sideline energy. Our team spoke to standout athletes, passionate fans, and even a few alumni legends who stopped by to share their insights.

🎥 Catch the full video on our YouTube channel: HBCU Original
🎤 “This was more than a game,” one attendee shared. “It was a family reunion.”

What’s Next for the Bulldogs?

As the team wraps up spring training, excitement is already building for the fall season. The coaching staff is optimistic, players are hungry, and the Bulldog Nation is ready to rally behind its team.

Stay tuned for more updates, exclusive footage, and full game-day coverage — only on HBCU Original.

👏 Meet the Coaching Staff Leading the Charge

Bowie State’s success on and off the field is powered by a dedicated coaching staff working to build champions:

• Kyle Jackson – Head Coach & Inside Linebackers

• Avery Williams – Associate Head Coach / Defensive Coordinator

• Matt Goggans – Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks

• Quinn Brown – Offensive Line Coach

• Rod White, Jr. – Safeties / Pass Game Coordinator

• Douglas McNeil III – Wide Receivers Coach

• Anthony Bagley – Assistant Quarterbacks Coach

• Mike Andrews – Special Teams Coordinator

• Adam Gillis, Jr. – Running Backs Coach

• Lorenzo Harrison – Assistant Linebackers Coach

• Chris Pressley – Tight Ends Coach

Their leadership, vision, and passion are evident in every play, every drill, and every student-athlete they mentor.

Lincoln University brought out the best in regional talent today as it hosted the Lincoln University Invite, a dynamic track and field meet featuring teams from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New York. As the CIAA Track and Field Championships approach, the Lions used this opportunity to stay sharp and continue tuning up against solid competition.​

Schools in attendance included Medgar Evers College (NYC), Wilmington University (DE), Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, Neumann University, Rosemont College, and several unattached athletes representing local clubs and training groups.

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From fast finishes on the track to big marks in the field, the competition was full of highlights and high-level performances. Lincoln’s athletes held their own, showing focus, fire, and form as they prepare to take on the CIAA’s best.​

The Lincoln University Invite wasn’t just a meet—it was a mission. And the Lions are clearly on theirs.​

Full Results: Athletic.net