The NBA recently announced Virginia Union University Panthers (VUU) and the Winston-Salem State University Rams (WSSU) will play in the upcoming 2024 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T. The matchup between two Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) teams is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 17, at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Downton Indianapolis, as part of the NBA All-Star 2024 festivities. The third edition of the NBA HBCU Classic is broadcasting simultaneously on TNT, ESPN2 and NBA TV.
“We’re excited to bring these two storied programs and conference rivals together to compete in our third HBCU Classic as part of NBA All-Star 2024,” said NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum. “The level of competition during the previous two Classic games set a high standard and showcased the tremendous pride of the HBCU community. We look forward to celebrating Virginia Union University and Winston-Salem State University on one of the NBA’s marquee stages.”
The CIAA played a part in the selection of these two teams. Parker said this year’s Classic demonstrates growing support for HBCU athletics and overall awareness.
“We are thrilled the CIAA will be represented during this year’s NBA All-Star weekend,” said CIAA Commissioner Jacqie McWilliams Parker. “This is an amazing opportunity to give expanded exposure for our DII student-athletes, our member institutions and the HBCU Community. We look forward to bringing the talent, culture, and excellence of the CIAA to the grandest stage of the game.”
The 2024 NBA HBCU Classic exemplifies the NBA’s year-round dedication to furthering opportunities for education, career and economic opportunities in partnership with HBCU institutions.
The NBA continually supports HBCUs through scholarships, programs, and mentorship and networking opportunities by contributing to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and academic institutions.
During the 2023 NBA All-Star weekend, through the HBCU Event Intern Program 13 students worked as paid interns across different NBA disciplines to gain experience working in sports and to learn from NBA staff. Additionally, 74 undergraduate and graduate students participated in the NBA HBCU Fellowship summer 2023 program, which provided career development opportunities in the basketball business.
“We are very excited about the invitation to participate in the 2024 NBA HBCU Classic. Virginia Union University and Winston-Salem State University boast strong winning traditions and have produced multiple NBA players and Hall of Famers,” said Joseph Taylor, Virginia Union University vice president for intercollegiate athletics.
This year, the game will feature competitive play between both teams and live band performances, all celebrating HBCU pride. Additional events and celebrations supporting HBCUs during the 2024 All-Star weekend will be announced later.
“Thank you to the CIAA and the NBA for selecting the WSSU Men’s Basketball team under the leadership of Cleo Hill Jr. to represent the Southern Division of the CIAA in this prestigious event,” said Winston-Salem State University Athletic Director Etienne Thomas. “This opportunity provides visibility for our student-athletes to showcase their athletic ability on the biggest stage available to professional athletes, which many of them aspire to be in the future, while also celebrating who they are as Division II student-athletes achieving academic and championship success, as we prepare them to graduate as champions and depart WSSU to serve their communities.”
Contact Racial Justice Reporter Garrett Simms at 317-762-7847