NBA All-Star and HBCU Graduate Chris Paul is set to spotlight Division I and Division II HBCUs for the fourth year in a row.
The lineups for Chris Paul HBCU Challenge have been announced. Both the Division II and Division I showcases are scheduled for December 19-20 at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.
“Chris Paul’s unwavering advocacy for HBCU athletes reflects his deep commitment to their empowerment and success. The Basketball Hall of Fame is honored to collaborate with Chris to promote opportunities for these talented student-athletes,” said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. “We eagerly anticipate bringing all eight teams and their fans together under one roof at Mohegan Sun Arena in December and bringing HBCU culture to New England.”
Thursday’s Division II games will be a pair of inter-conference matchups. Kentucky State will play SIAC foe Benedict, while Lincoln University and Winston-Salem State will face off in the other semifinal. The winners of each game will meet for the title of champion. The CIAA game will be a matchup of the last two conference champions. Winston-Salem State won last year’s Chris Paul HBCU Tip-Off, defeating Virginia Union.
The Division I matchups are set in stone with the MEAC taking on the SWAC. Norfolk State will take on Alabama State on Thursday while Delaware State will take on Grambling State in the other game. Then Norfolk State will take on Grambling State, the reigning SWAC Champions – while Delaware State takes on Alabama State.
“I’m excited to continue to grow the game of basketball through our HBCU tournaments,” said Paul. “These games present a unique opportunity for student athletes to play on a national stage and receive their well deserved recognition. Collaborating with the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, Mohegan Sun, and our partners provides the commitment needed to support HBCU schools and student athletes.”
Paul is a 2022 graduate of Winston-Salem State University.