HBCU ORIGINAL
“Disappearing Brothers: The Decline of Black Male Enrollment at HBCUs and Why It Matters”
Once the backbone of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Black men are slowly disappearing from the very spaces built to educate and empower them. Once nearly 38% of HBCU student bodies in 1976, Black male enrollment has now dropped to just 26%, according to the latest national figures.
This isn’t just a statistic. It’s a crisis. And it’s one that could have ripple effects for generations.
A Growing Gap: Where Are Our Brothers?
The decline in Black male college enrollment is not exclusive to HBCUs—it’s a nationwide problem. But the decline at HBCUs feels different. It feels personal. These are the institutions that have historically wrapped their arms around young Black men, provided safe spaces for growth, and launched some of the greatest leaders in Black history.
So why are fewer young Black men walking through those doors?
What’s Causing the Drop?
Let’s be clear: this isn’t about lack of ambition. It’s about the systems stacked against our young men before they even reach a college campus.
🔹 Systemic Inequities in K-12 Education
Black boys face disproportionate discipline, underfunded schools, and low expectations from educators. Far too many are underestimated long before they sit for their first college application.
🔹 Financial Barriers
College is expensive—and for many Black families, the math doesn’t add up. Rising tuition, limited financial aid, and immediate financial pressures at home often push Black men to skip college and head straight to the workforce.
🔹 Societal Pressures & Perception
Some Black men question the value of a degree when job prospects still feel limited post-graduation. The pressure to “start making money now” often overshadows the long-term benefit of education.
🔹 The “Belief Gap”
When teachers and counselors don’t believe in Black boys’ potential, it shows. That lack of belief sinks in early and shapes how they see themselves.
🔹 Shifting Perceptions of HBCUs
Despite their rich legacy, some young people perceive HBCUs as outdated or less competitive, not realizing these institutions have been—and still are—game changers in Black academic success.
🔹 Gender Disparity
Today, Black women significantly outnumber Black men on HBCU campuses. While that reflects the incredible strides Black women are making, it also highlights the imbalance and isolation some Black men feel.
The Real-World Consequences
The fallout from these trends is more than academic:
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Reduced Economic Mobility: Without a degree, Black men face fewer opportunities for high-paying, sustainable careers.
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Strained HBCU Communities: Enrollment drops hit budgets, alter campus culture, and weaken the support networks that make HBCUs so special.
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National Impact: When fewer Black men enter higher education, entire communities lose out on leadership, innovation, and generational uplift.
What Can Be Done?
The good news? This trend is reversible—but only if we act with intention.
✅ Fix the Pipeline
Invest early in Black boys. That means mentorship, college prep programs, culturally responsive educators, and access to advanced coursework in middle and high school.
✅ Close the Financial Gap
Expand scholarships and financial aid targeting Black men. No one should have to choose between education and survival.
✅ Change the Narrative
We must amplify stories of Black men who succeed in and after college. Representation matters. College must be seen as a bridge to opportunity, not a detour from success.
✅ Support, Don’t Just Recruit
Retention is as important as recruitment. That means mentorship programs, Black male faculty representation, mental health resources, and a culture that truly affirms their presence.
✅ Reimagine the HBCU Experience
HBCUs must reconnect with the needs and culture of today’s young Black men. From curriculum to campus life to career readiness, HBCUs can reclaim their space as the go-to institutions for Black male empowerment.
Final Thoughts: This Is Bigger Than School
This is about saving futures. It’s about equity. It’s about building a generation of leaders, fathers, entrepreneurs, and change-makers. If we let this trend continue, we risk losing more than students—we risk losing the legacy.
So the question isn’t just Where are our brothers?
The real question is: What are we doing to bring them back—and help them stay?
Join the movement. Share this message. Support a young brother. And let’s keep the doors of opportunity open.
#HBCUOriginal #BlackMaleEnrollment #SupportOurSons #HBCUVoices #EducationCrisis #LegacyMatters
HBCU ORIGINAL
Alcorn State Braves Take on Maryland Terrapins at Xfinity Arena: Jameel Morris Shines
On a chilly night at Xfinity Arena in College Park, MD, the Alcorn State Braves squared off against the University of Maryland Terrapins in a thrilling non-conference matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats. While the Braves came up short against the Big Ten powerhouse, the game was full of heart, hustle, and moments of brilliance, showing why SWAC basketball continues to grow in talent and competitiveness.
Key Moments and Plays
From the opening tip, the Braves demonstrated defensive intensity. #1 Jameel Morris was a one-man highlight reel, electrifying the court with multiple standout plays:
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Steals and Corner Jumper: Early in the first half, Morris read Maryland’s offense perfectly, stole the ball, and drained a smooth corner shot, igniting the Braves’ bench.
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Driving to the Hole: Displaying speed and skill, Morris powered through defenders for a strong layup, showcasing his ability to attack the basket under pressure.
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Steal and Score: Morris continued to turn defense into offense, picking pockets and converting fast-break opportunities into easy points.
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Bounces Off Contact and Scores: Perhaps his most physical play of the night, Morris absorbed contact at the rim and still finished strong, earning a roar from Braves fans.
Supporting Morris were Travis Roberts (14 points) and Shane Lancaster (10 points), each contributing key buckets and energy off the bench.
For Maryland, Pharrel Payne led the Terrapins with 22 points and 7 rebounds, while Andre Mills (16 points, 8 rebounds) and Elijah Saunders (12 points) kept the team ahead, ultimately finishing with a final score of Maryland 84 – Alcorn State 64.
SWAC Pride on Display
Despite facing a Big Ten program, the Braves showed the grit, athleticism, and strategic mindsets that SWAC teams are known for. Under Coach Jake Morton, Alcorn State’s players exhibited discipline, teamwork, and moments of brilliance that remind fans of the talent emerging from HBCUs and the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
Looking Ahead
While the Braves didn’t come away with the win, the performance of Jameel Morris and the energy from Coach Morton’s squad set the tone for the season. SWAC basketball continues to rise, and games like this against top-tier programs help put HBCU talent on the national radar.
Key Players:
Alcorn State Braves:
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#1 Jameel Morris – 22 points
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Travis Roberts – 14 points
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Shane Lancaster – 10 points
Maryland Terrapins:
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Pharrel Payne – 22 points, 7 rebounds
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Andre Mills – 16 points, 8 rebounds
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Elijah Saunders – 12 points
Final Score: Maryland 84 – Alcorn State 64
💜💛 Whether it’s Morris’ highlight-reel plays or the strategic leadership of Coach Jake Morton, the Braves proved that SWAC teams can compete with some of the best in college basketball. Stay tuned for more HBCU basketball coverage!

HBCU ORIGINAL
Bowie State Bulldogs 28, Lincoln University (PA) Lions 17 Lincoln, PA — Frank “Tick” Coleman Field
Location: Lincoln University, PA
Date: November 8, 2025
Game Summary:
Bowie State closed their 2025 season with a strong 28–17 road victory over Lincoln University (PA). After falling behind 14–0 early, the Bulldogs stormed back behind quarterback Savion Witherspoon, who accounted for three touchdowns — two passing and one rushing.
Lincoln opened the scoring with a 7-yard touchdown pass from Rhyel Miles-Eubanks to Omarion Dupree, followed by a 1-yard TD run from Dexter Baptism to make it 14-0.
Bowie State responded before halftime when Witherspoon hit Xavier Belton on a 26-yard touchdown pass to make it 14-7. In the second half, Witherspoon tied the game with a 4-yard rushing TD and later connected with Raymon Lewis for a 51-yard strike to give Bowie its first lead. Micah Robinson sealed the win with a 7-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
📊 Team Stats
| Category | Bowie State | Lincoln (PA) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 312 | 389 |
| Passing Yards | 215 | 246 |
| Rushing Yards | 97 | 143 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 2 |
| Time of Possession | 30:48 | 29:12 |
⭐ Top Performers
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Savion Witherspoon (BSU): 15/21, 215 YDS, 2 TD; 36 YDS rushing, 1 TD
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Xavier Belton (BSU): 26-yard TD reception
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Raymon Lewis (BSU): 51-yard TD reception
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Micah Robinson (BSU): 42 YDS rushing, 1 TD
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Samuel Graham (BSU): 13 tackles
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Rhyel Miles-Eubanks (LIN): 22/36, 246 YDS, 1 TD
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Omarion Dupree (LIN): 6 REC, 72 YDS, 1 TD
Final Record:
Bowie State finishes the 2025 season 3–7 overall (2–6 conference).
Lincoln (PA) closes out their campaign 0–10.

HBCU ORIGINAL
DELAWARE STATE SURVIVES MORGAN STATE COMEBACK
Final Score:
Delaware State Hornets 14 – Morgan State Bears 12
📍 Hughes Stadium, Baltimore, MD
🗓️ Friday, November 7, 2025
📺 ESPNU
In a tough MEAC battle under the Baltimore lights, Delaware State University held off a late surge from Morgan State to escape with a 14-12 victory.
Running back James Jones was the difference-maker, racking up 115 yards and one touchdown on 13 carries, including a 68-yard dash in the first quarter that set the tone early.
The Hornets’ second score came in dramatic fashion — Jones fumbled at the goal line, but A. Francis recovered in the end zone for a Delaware State touchdown, giving them a 14-3 lead at the half.
Morgan State battled back with a pair of field goals from A. Amaya and a 67-yard touchdown run by Randall Nauden, but a failed two-point conversion left them short in the final minutes.
Defensively, Delaware State’s Jianni Woodson-Brooks led with 8 tackles, and Quincy Robinson added a clutch sack to help seal the win.
With the victory, Delaware State improves to 7-3 overall and 3-0 in MEAC play, staying firmly in the hunt for the conference title. Morgan State falls to 3-7 (0-3 MEAC) after a strong but incomplete comeback.
🔥 HBCU Original was on the ground capturing every moment — from the sideline intensity to the fan energy. Stay locked in for exclusive highlights, interviews, and all-access coverage from this MEAC rivalry matchup!

#HBCUOriginal #MEACFootball #DelState #MorganState #HBCUPride #CollegeFootball #DSU #MSU #HBCUSports #WeCoverTheCulture
HBCU ORIGINAL
Coppin State Shows Fight in Season Opener Against Maryland at CFG Bank Arena
BALTIMORE, MD — The Coppin State Eagles opened their 2025–26 men’s basketball season under the bright lights of CFG Bank Arena, taking on the University of Maryland Terrapins in a much-anticipated in-state showdown. Though the Eagles ultimately fell 83–61, the night was a showcase of heart, hustle, and promise for a young Coppin squad looking to make noise this season.
From the opening tip, Coppin came ready to compete. The Eagles matched Maryland’s energy early, trading baskets and pushing the pace behind Khali Horton, who led the way with 19 points, showing his ability to create shots and finish through contact. Coppin’s defensive intensity in the first half forced Maryland to work for every possession, keeping the game within reach before the Terps’ depth and size began to show.
By halftime, Maryland had built a 47–32 lead, powered by the hot shooting of Pharrel Payne and Darius Adams, who combined for 37 points. Still, Coppin refused to fold. Coming out of the break, the Eagles went on a 7-2 run sparked by Nhyier Bethea and Justin Winston, cutting the deficit and re-energizing the Baltimore crowd.
Throughout the second half, Coppin State continued to battle, showing flashes of what’s to come this season — active hands on defense, strong rebounding effort, and improved offensive movement. Head Coach Larry Stewart praised his team’s resilience, noting that early-season tests like this help build character and chemistry.
“We’re learning who we are,” Stewart said. “Playing a team like Maryland gives us the opportunity to see where we can grow, and I loved the effort our guys brought tonight.”
Maryland’s depth and shooting proved too much in the final stretch, but Coppin’s intensity and fight never wavered. Despite the scoreline, the Eagles’ energy on both ends of the floor stood out — a clear sign that this team plans to compete every night.
For fans and supporters, the game was more than just a season opener; it was a celebration of Maryland basketball and the continued rise of Coppin State’s program, representing Baltimore and the HBCU community with pride.
The Eagles return to action later this week, ready to build on the lessons learned from their season debut. With a roster filled with new faces and a commitment to growth, Coppin State’s future looks bright.
Final Score: Maryland 83, Coppin State 61
Top Performer: Khali Horton – 19 points
Next Up: Coppin State continues non-conference play before returning home to the PEC Center for their home opener.

HBCU ORIGINAL
Elizabeth City State Stuns Bowie State 28–27 in Homecoming Heartbreaker
BOWIE, Md. — On a crisp Homecoming Saturday at Bulldog Stadium, Bowie State seemed in full control — until the Elizabeth City State Vikings engineered one of the most dramatic comebacks of the CIAA season.
Trailing 27–7 midway through the third quarter, ECSU stormed back with 21 unanswered points, capped by a 19-yard touchdown strike from quarterback Navian Hilliard to Terrance Holland with 1:51 left, to edge the Bulldogs 28–27 in front of a stunned Bowie State crowd.
The loss overshadowed a career day from Bowie State quarterback Savion Witherspoon, who racked up 81 rushing yards, three touchdowns on the ground, and 139 yards passing, and a highlight defensive play by Tommie McKoy III, whose 97-yard interception return gave the Bulldogs a 20-point cushion late in the third quarter.
But the Vikings refused to fold.
Moments after McKoy’s pick-six, ECSU’s defense flipped the script. On 1st-and-10 from the Viking 13, Manuel Montout read Witherspoon perfectly and came away with a red-zone interception — a momentum-turning moment that swung the energy to the visiting sideline.
Hilliard quickly made the Bulldogs pay. Aided by consecutive penalties, the Vikings’ offense capitalized on a short field, as running back Traquan Johnson punched in a 2-yard touchdown run to cut the deficit to 27–14 with 3:00 remaining in the third quarter.
From there, ECSU’s defense tightened up. After forcing Bowie State to turn it over on downs, Hilliard connected with Joe Griffin for a 33-yard touchdown, slicing the score to 27–21 early in the fourth.
Then came the play that silenced the Homecoming crowd. On the ensuing kickoff, ECSU’s Shamar Sutton recovered a Bowie State fumble at the Bulldogs’ 29-yard line. Johnson again shouldered the load, setting up Hilliard’s 19-yard dart to Holland for the go-ahead score. Wyatt Jackson’s extra point gave ECSU its first lead, 28–27, with less than two minutes left.
Bowie State’s final drive reached midfield, but the Vikings’ defense held firm — sealing a statement road victory and spoiling the Bulldogs’ Homecoming celebration.
Top Performers
Bowie State (2–7, 1–6 CIAA)
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Savion Witherspoon: 81 rushing yards, 3 rushing TDs, 139 passing yards
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Maximus Jones: 86 rushing yards on 22 carries
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Tommie McKoy III: 97-yard interception return TD
Elizabeth City State (3–6, 3–3 CIAA)
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Navian Hilliard: 198 passing yards, 2 TDs
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Traquan Johnson: 2 total TDs (1 rushing, 1 receiving)
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Manuel Montout: Red-zone interception that sparked comeback
Up Next
Bowie State will close its season on the road at Lincoln University (Pa.) next Saturday, Nov. 8, at 1 p.m.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth City State returns home for Homecoming against Bluefield State, where a win would secure the Vikings’ best CIAA finish since 2013.

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HBCU ORIGINAL3 weeks ago🏐 Bowie State Sweeps Goldey-Beacom 3–0 in Wilmington Showdown
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HBCU ORIGINAL4 weeks ago🏈 Lincoln University (PA) Lions Fall 4-0 to Chestnut Hill, But Display Heart and Resilience
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HBCU ORIGINAL5 days agoDELAWARE STATE SURVIVES MORGAN STATE COMEBACK
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HBCU ORIGINAL2 weeks agoPhiladelphia: DeSean Jackson & Mike Vick Lead the Charge at the HBCU Football Classic
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HBCU ORIGINAL2 weeks agoElizabeth City State Stuns Bowie State 28–27 in Homecoming Heartbreaker
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HBCU ORIGINAL1 week agoCoppin State Shows Fight in Season Opener Against Maryland at CFG Bank Arena
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HBCU ORIGINAL2 days agoBowie State Bulldogs 28, Lincoln University (PA) Lions 17 Lincoln, PA — Frank “Tick” Coleman Field
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HBCU ORIGINAL18 hours agoAlcorn State Braves Take on Maryland Terrapins at Xfinity Arena: Jameel Morris Shines

