Winston-Salem State handles Virginia Union 64-47 in the 2024 HBCU Classic during NBA All-Star Weekend in Indy

Although both teams put on a show in front of a sold out crowd at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) Rams took the win over Virginia Union University (VUU) Panthers 64-47 at the third annual HBCU Classic presented by AT&T on Feb 17. “It is turnt in here (Gainbridge),” sports commentator Brian Custer said regarding the electric atmosphere. Custer’s statement ironically embodies what HBCU pride and passion is all about. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been pillars of excellence in American education and sports. The Classic, sponsored by telecommunication giant AT&T, not only celebrates the rich tradition of HBCU athletics but also highlights the talents of student-athletes from schools like Winston-Salem State University and Virginia Union University. Virginia Union guard Tahj Harding (24) drives on Winston-Salem State guard Ketron “KC” Shaw (0) during the first half of the HBCU Classic NCAA college basketbsall game in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy) VUU alum, center for the 2004 championship Detroit Pistons and of the 2021 Basketball Hall of Fame member Ben Wallace spoke about the importance of highlighting HBCUs during NBA All-Star Weekend in Circle City. “We’re (HBCUs) small, but we make a large impact,”...