NBA 3rd Annual HBCU Classic Matchup

The Winston-Salem State College Rams defeated the Virginia Union College Panthers 64-47 on Saturday to win the third annual NBA HBCU Traditional at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. 

Each groups got here out robust on protection, with a complete of six factors scored over the primary five-minute stretch. Winston-Salem broke away with a 10-0 run close to the top of the primary half and went into the break with a 33-24 benefit.

The Panthers trimmed their deficit to single digits early within the second half, however the Rams shortly regained management for the rest of the matchup, taking their largest lead of the sport (23 factors) with 2:21 to go. 

Winston-Salem’s Ketron Shaw led all scorers with 15 factors on 6-for-6 capturing. Tahj Harding led the best way for the Panthers with 11 factors. After the victory, Rams senior guard Jaylen Alston expressed his gratitude to play on the nationwide stage.

“It’s superior, having the ability to come out right here exterior all these individuals,” stated Alston. “We don’t see that many large crowds. A crowd like that is wonderful to have.”

A number of HBCU alumni attended Saturday’s contest together with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith and NBA legend Ben Wallace. Smith performed for the legendary Clarence “Large Home” Gaines at Winston-Salem and frolicked with John McClendon, the Corridor of Fame coach who helped pioneer fast-break basketball. 

“It makes you are feeling such as you’re not alone,” Smith stated of attending an HBCU. “However there’s additionally an elevated degree of accountability.”

To tip off this yr’s occasion, Grammy Award-winning artist Coco Jones sang “Elevate Each Voice And Sing” and the Nationwide Anthem. Afterward, the cheerleading squads for each groups (WSSU Powerhouse and the VUU Rah-Rahs) entertained the group with their joint efficiency at halftime, which additionally featured Virginia Union’s notorious Ambassadors of Sound Marching Band.

Moreover, the NBA helped to curate an HBCU scholar showcase, which options scholar artists from traditionally Black schools and universities. 

Earlier NBA x HBCU Showcase outcomes

2023 | Grambling 69, Southern 64

2022 | Howard 68, Morgan State 66

The occasion, offered by AT&T, is a part of the NBA’s ongoing dedication to advancing instructional, skilled and financial alternatives in partnership with HBCU establishments in addition to growing help and consciousness for HBCU athletics.