Culture
Hampton University and North Carolina A&T to face off in 2026 NBA HBCU Classic
The highly anticipated Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) matchup will take place Friday, February 13, at 8 p.m. PT inside the Kia Forum in Inglewood.
The NBA has officially announced that Hampton University and North Carolina A&T will headline the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T.
The highly anticipated Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) matchup will take place Friday, February 13, at 8 p.m. PT inside the Kia Forum in Inglewood. This marks the fifth installment of the NBA HBCU Classic, held during NBA All-Star Weekend.
2026 NBA HBCU Classic: Historic Rivalry Takes Center Stage
The Hampton Pirates and North Carolina A&T Aggies bring decades of HBCU basketball tradition to the national spotlight. NBA Deputy Commissioner and COO Mark Tatum emphasized the significance of this matchup, calling both schools “premier HBCU institutions” that reflect “pride, tradition and excellence.” He added, “We look forward to hosting both teams in Los Angeles and celebrating their storied programs.”
NBA and AT&T Deepen HBCU Commitment
As part of its ongoing support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the NBA, alongside AT&T, will donate $100,000 to each participating school. Since expanding its HBCU initiatives in 2021, the NBA family has contributed over $5.5 million to HBCU institutions, scholarships, and partners.
CAA Commissioner Joe D’Antonio praised the collaboration, stating, “The NBA has been a consistent supporter in elevating HBCU exposure. This partnership aligns with our values of being ‘United in Excellence.’”
Athletic Directors Celebrate the Opportunity
Hampton University’s Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Anthony D. Henderson Sr., expressed deep gratitude.
“This is a tremendous opportunity to showcase our student-athletes and celebrate the legacy of HBCUs,” he said. “We look forward to bringing Pirate pride to the West Coast.”
North Carolina A&T’s Athletic Director, Earl Hilton III, echoed the excitement. “Our rivalry with Hampton is steeped in history. Sharing this stage honors our institutions and their impact on American history,” he noted. “Coach Ross and our student-athletes will bring Aggie Pride to LA.”
2026 NBA HBCU Classic Tickets and Broadcast Info
Details on ticket sales and broadcast coverage will be released at a later date. Fans can follow NBA All-Star updates and experiences by visiting nbaevents.nba.com
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