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The Virginia Union University Panthers (VUU) and Winston-Salem State University Rams (WSSU) men’s basketball teams have been selected to go head to head at the 2024 NBA HBCU Classic as a part of the NBA All-Star 2024 weekend.
“We are thrilled the CIAA will be represented during this year’s NBA All-Star weekend,” said Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (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 CIAA matchup will take place on Saturday, Feb. 17 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Let’s see if WSSU men’s basketball team can get another W off or if Virginia Union is coming to stand on business as you may recall the Rams won the bragging rights following a 65-56 win at the Chris Paul HBCU Championship Tip-Off Classic back in November.
Roomies, you can get your tickets to the game here or watch it live as it will be simulcast on TNT, NBA TV, and ESPN2, ensuring that all fans nationwide can tune in from various channels.
NBA Announces Exciting Investments In the Participating HBCUs
The NBA has proven once again its commitment to supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities making major investments in collaboration with AT&T, they have issued a generous donation of $100,000 to each participating school, Virginia Union University and Winston-Salem State University from the CIAA.
But AT&T isn’t the only company throwing its support behind the 2024 NBA HBCU Classic. Foot Locker, Google Pixel, STARRY, and Under Armour are also making their contributions to the event. Foot Locker, in particular, will provide exclusive merchandise at the event, while Google Pixel will host a pep rally at their interactive Pixel Combine experience.
Sportswear company Under Armour has been announced to create the outfits both teams will wear during the basketball game.
Meanwhile, STARRY will host a pre-game celebration for fans to enjoy before the matchup.
Providing Opportunities Outside Of Basketball
But the upcoming NBA All-Star 2024 weekend will offer more than just basketball games. For the third year, the NBA will identify 11 HBCU students from across the country to serve as Event Interns for multiple departments within the league office while receiving hands-on experience. The students will have the opportunity to see behind the scenes of NBA All-Star 2024 and serve in a variety of roles across various NBA league office departments. In association with the NBA Foundation, there will also be career development groups and networking sessions.
Additional activities will also be taking place, providing more opportunities for HBCU students and the community to engage and celebrate. The NBA’s Creative Services group will host the 4th annual Student Art showcase, which aims to inspire the next generation of emerging artists and designers by providing them with mentorship, career opportunities, and increased visibility. The showcase will select six artists whose art will be featured throughout All-Star venues.
Tickets for the 2024 NBA HBCU Classic are available online at NBA Events and through the NBA Events App.
