February 16th 2025.
The NBA HBCU Classic was an event that had everyone buzzing with excitement. On February 15th, two sets of fierce tigers, the Morehouse College Athletics Maroon Tigers and the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers, faced off on national TV for the ultimate bragging rights. This highly anticipated game was a part of the NBA's All-Star festivities and has been presented since 2022. It was a battle that would determine which team would hold the title until the next HBCU Classic.
According to NBA.com, the game did not disappoint. The crowd of 19,596 at Oakland's Oakland Arena was the largest to ever witness a Morehouse College game. It was an entertaining and spirited contest, but in the end, it was the Tuskegee Golden Tigers who came out on top with a final score of 68-55. Kusamae Draper led the way for Tuskegee with an impressive 22 points, while Kevin Sesberry and D'Anthony Pennington also had strong performances with 19 and 16 points respectively.
The victory was a significant moment for Tuskegee, and they were quick to celebrate on social media. They proudly shared their win, adding another victory to their already impressive record. The energy and excitement from the game were palpable, and it was clear that both teams had given it their all. Harold Ellis, the Morehouse director of Athletics, even mentioned on the TNT broadcast that this game was a chance for players to showcase their skills to NBA scouts.
The game was not just about the players, but also about the synergy between the NBA and HBCUs. Both Morehouse and Tuskegee were chosen to participate in the HBCU Classic because of their rich traditions, intense on-court rivalry, and commitment to excellence. Benjy Taylor, Tuskegee's coach, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating that it was a way to increase membership, viewership, and overall knowledge of HBCU basketball.
Before the game, there was a special moment where NBA champion Channing Frye, whose grandfather was a Tuskegee Airman, received a Tuskegee bomber jacket from Tuskegee AD Reginald Ruffin. It was a powerful moment that highlighted the connection between the game and the HBCU community. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Oklahoma City Thunder's star point guard and a leading candidate for MVP, also spoke to both teams, encouraging them to play their best and to never take any opportunity for granted.
Mark Tatum, the NBA's deputy commissioner and chief operating officer, spoke highly of the game in a press release. He emphasized how the NBA HBCU Classic has become a highlight of the league's calendar and a way to celebrate HBCU culture and traditions. AT&T's Chief Diversity Officer, Michelle Jordan, echoed his sentiments, stating that they are proud to support the next generation of scholars, athletes, and future makers.
The 2025 NBA HBCU Classic was a huge success, not only for the players and teams involved but also for the HBCU community as a whole. It was a chance for these institutions to showcase their talents and traditions on a national stage, and it was an opportunity for students to gain valuable career development opportunities. The NBA and AT&T's support for this event highlights their commitment to promoting diversity and creating opportunities for young talent. It's a game that will be remembered for years to come and a testament to the power of collaboration and celebration of HBCU excellence.
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