On April 6, the Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio will host the fourth edition of the Men’s HBCU All-Star Game and the first-ever Women’s HBCU All-Star Game. These events will be broadcast live on Peacock and NBC Sports NOW. The games aim to highlight the exceptional skills of 24 top male and female players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), offering them a platform to showcase their talents for future professional opportunities. Each team is coached by esteemed HBCU coaches and named after legendary figures in HBCU basketball history.
The men's game kicks off at 1 p.m. ET, with the women's game scheduled shortly afterward. Among the standout participants are T.J. Madlock from Alabama State, who was named the SWAC Tournament champion and Carlos Rogers HBCU All-Stars NCAA Division I National Player of the Year. Christian Ings from Norfolk State also joins the roster, having led his team in scoring during the MEAC Tournament. For the women, Taliah Wesley from Allen University brings her accolades as the Jackie Givens HBCU All-Stars Division II Women’s National Player of the Year. Players from various conference champions, including the MEAC, SWAC, CIAA, and SIAC, will compete in this historic event.
These all-star games have a track record of propelling athletes into professional careers. Notable alumni include Joirdon Karl Nicholson, Javonte Cooke, Christian Brown, and Asanti Price, who now play in the G-League, alongside Prince Moss, currently affiliated with the Harlem Globetrotters. Over half of past participants have found success playing abroad.
Broadcasting duties for the men's game fall to Brian Custer, a two-time Emmy Award winner, alongside former head coach Cy Alexander, whose career includes stints at South Carolina State, Tennessee State, and North Carolina A&T. Nia Symone, Thai Floyd, and Symone Stanley will provide expert commentary for the women's game.
NBC Sports NOW offers free streaming access through Peacock, the NBC Sports app, and major FAST Channel platforms such as Roku Channel and Samsung TV Plus. This digital presence ensures widespread accessibility for fans eager to witness the next generation of HBCU basketball stars.
Audiences can anticipate an electrifying display of talent and athleticism as these young athletes vie for recognition on a national stage. The event not only celebrates current achievements but also underscores the enduring legacy and influence of HBCU basketball within the broader sports landscape.