Sports

Not Making the Grade: Why Big Time College Sports Continue Failing Black Male Student Athletes

Published

12 years ago

November 25, 2014

BlackPressUSA Newswire

by Starla Muhammad
Special to the NNPA from The Final Call

This 2012 file photo shows then-Baltimore Ravens NFL football player Michael McAdoo, who was released by the team in 2013. The former University of North Carolina football player has filed a lawsuit against the school, saying it failed to provide him and other athletes a quality education by guiding them toward sham classes.

A recent lawsuit filed by Michael McAdoo, a former football player at the University of North Carolina (UNC) accuses the institution of higher learning of failing to provide him with a quality education in exchange for his talents on the gridiron.

It is the latest fallout from an academic scandal that continues shedding new light on what critics argue is an old problem—the on-going exploitation of college athletes, particularly young Black male athletes.

The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court in Charlotte, stems from academic improprieties at UNC uncovered in a report revealing that nearly 3,000 students and student-athletes enrolled in so-called “no-show” classes in the Department of African and Afro-American Studies between 1989 and 2011. These independent study courses required students to write papers and there was little to no instructor-student interaction.

A 136-page report, “Investigation of Irregular Classes in the Department of African and Afro-American Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill,” was released last month.

Student-athletes accounted for 47 percent of enrollment in the “no-show” or “paper” classes but make up only 4 percent of the school’s undergraduate student body, said the report. Of student-athletes enrolled in the classes, 50.9 percent were football players, 12.2 percent were men’s basketball players, 6.1 percent were women’s basketball players and 30 percent were Olympic and other sport athletes, the report continued.

“A good number of these student-athletes were ‘steered’ to the AFAM paper classes by certain academic counselors in ASPSA. This steering was most prevalent among the counselors for the revenue sports of football and men’s basketball,” noted the report. ASPSA stands for Academic Support Program for Student-Athletes.

The academic scandal that rocked UNC came to no surprise to Dr. Boyce Watkins an author and former finance professor.

Dr. Boyce Watkins

“I’ve taught at four different universities with major athletics programs and at pretty much every school you see something ridiculous like this that occurs. Maybe not so broad and sustained and systemic as this but universities make it very clear that their number one priority is to make money, not to educate athletes,” said Dr. Watkins.

“What they do is they educate White kids with money earned by Black kids on the basketball court and the football field. It’s really a transfer of wealth due to the labor of what you might call indentured servants in a way but not quite the same thing of course,” he added.

While men’s college football and basketball means big bucks for universities, advertisers, athletic companies, boosters, stadiums and venues, the travel and tourism industry, restaurants and high paid coaches, players are more often than not left in the cold due to antiquated NCAA rules and regulations.

There are nearly 1,100 Division I, II and III colleges and universities that make up the NCAA. According to financial reports on ncaa.org in 2013, the NCAA raked in $912.8 million in total gross revenue which includes television and marketing rights fees, net investment income, championships and NIT tournaments, an increase from $871.6 million the previous year.

Kenneth Wainstein, lead investigator into academic irregularities at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, holds a copy of his findings during a news conference following a special joint meeting of the University of North Carolina Board of Governors and the UNC-Chapel Hill Board of Trustees in Chapel Hill, N.C., Oct. 22.

But Mr. McAdoo was ruled ineligible to play by the NCAA in 2010 for allegedly receiving $110 in improper benefits in violation of rules. Part of the illegal benefits included an alleged prospective agent paying for an $89 hotel stay and $10 night club cover charge for Mr. McAdoo.

University of Georgia star running back Todd Gurley played Nov. 15 after serving a four game NCAA suspension for receiving money for signing autographs from memorabilia dealers.

In 2010 four football players from The Ohio State University were suspended by the NCAA for selling their own team memorabilia in exchange for a few thousand dollars and free tattoos.

According to the American Gaming Association, the FBI estimates over $2.5 billion is illegally wagered annually on March Madness and $80 million to $90 million legally wagered through legal gambling in Nevada. Last year the NCAA March Madness basketball tournament generated $1.15 billion in ad revenue. And the city of Atlanta, which hosted last year’s tournament, reportedly received a $70 million boost to its economy.

Players receive none of that money.

The “free” college education only applies to players who are able to stay academically eligible and if their scholarships are renewed annually. Players run the risk of being dropped from the team if they get injured and are unable to play.

Degree dilemmas and struggling to find a way

Of the Division I men’s basketball teams that were in the Sweet 16 tournament earlier this year, the graduation rate of White male student athletes was 98 percent, for Black male student athletes, it was an abysmal 55 percent according to The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sports (TIDES). The institute located at the University of Central Florida, is headed by Dr. Richard Lapchick.
The NCAA measures its Graduation Success Rates (GSR) on the percentage of players that graduate within six years of entering school.Among 70 college football teams heading to bowl games, during the 2013-14 season, the graduation rate for Black players was 65 percent versus 84 percent for White players. Nine out of 70 schools graduated less than half of their Black football players but none graduated less than half of White players.

On average, historically Black colleges and universities do not fare much better when it comes to graduating Black male student-athletes. Alabama State had a GSR of 81 percent in 2012-2013. Howard University was second at 61 percent. The average GSR of NCAA Division I HBCU football team that year was slightly over 47 percent. The University of Maryland Eastern Shore men’s basketball team led all HBCU’s in 2012-13 with a GSR of 86 percent.

Writer and professor Jessica Johnson of Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio noted in a piece published on Online Athens that while Black colleges face problems with athletes graduating—far more pressure exists at White institutions.

“While there is pressure to win in the HBCU Division I conferences, it pales in comparison to what student-athletes face in major conferences like the Big Ten and Atlantic Coast Conference. Also, HBCUs rarely have players leaving early for the NBA draft, so that does not factor into their lower GSRs,” she said. Low GSR’s at HBCU’s need to be examined closely and concerns raised about potential hindrances to academic achievement so a stronger support system can be developed she added.

Georgia running back Todd Gurley (3) in action against South Carolina, Sept. 7, 2013 in Athens, GA.

College athletics is a business industry using unpaid labor and there are no incentives keeping the powerbrokers accountable to athletes providing the labor, explained Dr. Watkins.

“Coaches are not incentivized in their contracts to educate or graduate anybody. They get tiny bonuses for graduation almost just like honorariums. Their real bonuses come from winning championships,” said Dr. Watkins.

“If you are a coach and you’ve got a $5 million a year job on the line and your university has clearly stated in the contract that winning games is your number one priority; how much time are you really going to put into making sure these young men get educated? None.”

Dr. Lapchick said diversity in key decision making positions in colleges and universities could impact graduation outcomes.

“If you have all White men or overwhelmingly White men making the decisions in college sports you’re going to have a limited perspective on who to hire, on decisions to make and what’s important. It doesn’t augur well for college sports that the leadership positions in particular are overwhelmingly White,” he told The Final Call. Over 88 percent of presidents of Football Bowl Subdivision schools and conferences are White. Almost 85 percent of athletic directors and 100 percent of conference commissioners are White.

The continued educational gap between Black and White students in general is even bigger than it is on the collegiate athlete level, Dr. Lipchick pointed out. Therefore a Black student athlete in high school may end up being significantly farther behind than his White team mates. Unless schools are prepared and willing to help close that academic gap, Black athletes will continue to be at a serious disadvantage in completing their education, Dr. Lipchick added.

He has researched and studied issues in sports related to race and gender in collegiate and professional sports for over 50 years. Individual Black student athletes he has spoken to over the years told him they often feel college counselors put them in courses just to keep them eligible rather than helping athletes move toward completing a degree.

“There’s simply from (the counselors’) point of view no expectation. They’re valued clearly as basketball or football players or whatever their sport is but not so much as someone that might make a contribution in a political science class or economics class,” said Dr. Lapchick.

A change in direction?

Efforts to confront the NCAA and force changes are underway. Kain Colter, a former football player at Northwestern University, led efforts to have its players vote to form a union at the Illinois school after an official with the National Labor Relation Board ruled football players were employees and entitled to benefits such as workers compensation and a portion of revenue. The results of the April vote were impounded and will not be made public until the NLRB reviews the initial ruling. That is not expected to happen anytime soon.

Rep Tony Cardenas (D-Calif)

Rep. Tony Cardenas (D-Calif.) introduced “HR 3545: The Collegiate Student-Athlete Protection Act” last November. Co-sponsored by Reps. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.), Charlie Rangel (D-N.Y.), Tim Ryan (D-Ohio), Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) and Betty McCollum (DFL-Min.) the act would ensure that an athlete’s inability to compete would not mean loss of athletic scholarships.

Among other benefits, the bill would require training in life skills and finance workshops, including explanation of the full rights provided in scholarships, concussion education and what student-athletes can expect to pay in health care costs. But a year later, there is still no movement on the bill, according to congress.gov.

It is also important that student athletes and their families understand what they are potentially getting into when accepting an athletic scholarship.

During a Nov. 14 interview on ESPN, University of Notre Dame head football coach Brian Kelly was asked what was the biggest difference he has seen over the last few years is in what recruits are looking for in a collegiate program. Recruits are concerned about getting a shot at making it to the NFL but they are also concerned about their education and life after football, he said.

“I really think the pendulum has swung back. Kids are thinking about their degree. They’re thinking about ‘how can I best have an opportunity when football is over,’ ” said Coach Kelly.

“They know and they read the stories in the NFL and how after their careers are over that they’re struggling maybe to make a career of it. So kids are thinking about the degree and success after. And I know that’s hard to do when you’re 17 but they have mentors, they have family members, they have others that are helping them and I think the pendulum has swung back over probably the last 5 or 6 years where kids are really considering that degree now,” said Mr. Kelly.

And while Notre Dame is number one in percentage of football players that graduate with degrees, it went through its own controversy earlier this year when five players, all Black, were dismissed from the squad for academic fraud. This came one year after current starting quarterback Everett Golson was suspended during the 2013 season for cheating on a test. An investigation revealed players had submitted assignments that were written or completed by others.

Eric Muhammad played two years of football at Arizona State University in 1993-94 after transferring from Pasadena City College in California. One of the biggest challenges many Black male athletes face is college is often a completely different culture and environment than they are used to. Also, if academics and school is not stressed in the home of an athlete, when they get to college they may struggle, he said. Universities need to have training programs and tools in place to help with this academic and environmental transition, said Mr. Muhammad.

He also agrees that college athletes should be paid for playing and have a right to be compensated in a fair and equitable way.

“If I can’t have my money right now, there needs to be something put aside because if 10,000 people are in the stands wearing my jersey I need to be compensated for that. The NCAA, in my humble opinion, is a complete racket and they’re raking in hundreds of millions of dollars in endorsement money from these companies and the athletes don’t see a portion. After I cashed my scholarship check, I had $80 left for the entire month. It’s insane,” he said.

Earlier this year a federal judge ruled to remove restrictions on money college athletes can get for use of their likeness, image and name but the NCAA can still cap the payments as long as the amount is not less than $5,000 a year for each year they compete.

The Honorable Elijah Muhammad of the Nation of Islam pointed out in his 1965 book “Message to the Black Man” that America more than any other country offers Black people opportunities to engage in sport and play, much to their detriment. The world of sports is causing tremendous amounts of evil and hundreds of millions of dollars change hands for the benefit of a few while hurting millions of poor people, wrote the Nation of Islam patriarch. His top student, Minister Louis Farrakhan, has repeatedly pointed out how historically, Black athletes have been used and exploited for their skills.

The reasons universities, the NCAA and others are allowed to continue to get away with what is happening is because the majority who are exploited are Blacks. Coaches and athletic departments control the academic futures of Black athletes but with that power should also come the responsibility to ensure they receive a proper education, Dr. Watkins pointed out.

“The only system in America that’s worse than the prison industrial complex is the NCAA,” said Dr. Watkins.

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Black History

Oakland Strong: Building Champions and Healthier Generations

Entrepreneur Mike Jenkins is revitalizing youth wellness in Oakland through Oakland Strong, a world-class strength-training facility in Jack London Square. After providing a decade of free training in Fruitvale, the program moved and rebranded while continuing to produce national and international weightlifting champions. Jenkins aims to counter community health challenges by teaching Olympic-style lifting and nutrition to children ages 8 to 18. As the program seeks new ways to sustain its free services, local partnerships are forming to support these elite young athletes. Read more.

Published

2 days ago

November 3, 2026

BlackPressUSA Newswire

By Tanya Dennis

Mike Jenkins is a serial entrepreneur with a vision to make a lasting impact in Oakland.

Raised in a military family in the Pinole area, Jenkins played basketball at Merritt College before continuing his athletic career at Sacramento State.

His lifelong interest in health and wellness led him to consider a troubling reality: as members of the Black community age, health challenges often increase. Jenkins believes investing in health is an investment in wealth, and he has made it his mission to give Oakland’s youth a stronger foundation for life.

Years ago, Jenkins invested in young people by building Speed Power Strength, a world-class strength-training facility in the Fruitvale neighborhood. For 10 years, the facility served hundreds of children, providing training entirely free of charge. Displaced by gentrification, the program eventually found a new home in Jack London Square.

That move inspired a new name: Oakland Strong, reflecting both the program’s mission and its pride in the city it represents.

“When we found the new home, I needed to put a spotlight on what we were doing– producing the strongest kids in Oakland – so I named our new location Oakland Strong,” Jenkins explained. “We are known nationally and internationally, so when we compete, our city’s name is on our chest.”

Through Olympic weightlifting, governed nationally by USA Weightlifting, the program has developed an extraordinary record. Its athletes have earned 10 national championships, a team national championship, and international titles. Today, two Oakland Strong athletes are Olympic hopefuls.

This past summer, Oakland had three athletes at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs at the same time. One was Olympic figure skating champion Alysa Liu. The other two were Oakland Strong’s Robert Whitlock and Rucker Johnson, there for a weightlifting camp for Olympic hopefuls.

Whitlock, an Oakland Technical High School student, began training at age 10. Now a three-time consecutive national champion, two-time Pan American champion, and Team USA representative, Whitlock also holds an American record while maintaining straight A’s in school.

“If Oakland can’t support these kinds of kids, then what are we doing?” Jenkins asks.

Oakland Strong continues offering free training in Jack London Square to young people ages 8-18. The program welcomes girls as well as boys, with approximately 12 kids currently participating with room for 20.

With limited city support for free youth programs, Jenkins must find other ways to sustain the work.

When Carlyle Chicken Wings opened nearby, he approached the owner with an idea connecting nutrition and community investment. Because Oakland Strong teaches healthy eating alongside athletic training, they developed the Oakland Strong Bowl, a protein-focused meal. Carlyle will contribute $2 from each bowl sold to support the program.

For Jenkins, the mission extends far beyond medals and records. He wants to create generational health by teaching young people habits they can carry into adulthood and share with their families.

The strongest legacy, he believes, is not simply producing champions, but building healthier generations who understand their worth, their potential, and the importance of investing in themselves.

Black Press

Dallas Trinity FC Signs Kaiya Brewer to Academy Contract

THE DALLAS WEEKLY — Dallas Trinity FC has signed 15-year-old midfielder and forward Kaiya Brewer to an academy contract, allowing the Kansas City native to train and compete in the Gainbridge Super League while maintaining her collegiate eligibility. Brewer joins the professional club following a stint with Kansas City Current II and a successful youth career with the Utah Royals U19 ECNL.

Published

1 week ago

October 27, 2026

BlackPressUSA Newswire

Dallas Trinity FC Signs Kaiya Brewer to Academy Contract

DALLAS (Oct. 21, 2026) – Dallas Trinity FC announced today that it has signed 15-year-old midfielder and forward Kaiya Brewer to an academy contract. The academy contract allows Brewer to train and compete with Dallas Trinity FC in the Gainbridge Super League while preserving her collegiate eligibility.

Brewer joins Dallas Trinity FC after competing with Kansas City Current II in the Women’s Premier Soccer League (WPSL). The Kansas City, Kansas, native also played for Utah Royals U19 ECNL, where she earned ECNL Midwest All-Conference First Team honors.

“Kaiya is an exciting young player with the opportunity to take an important next step in her development here in Dallas,” said Brian Corcoran, sporting director for Dallas Trinity FC. “Our academy pathway gives players the chance to challenge themselves in a professional environment while keeping their college options open. We look forward to supporting Kaiya as she grows within our club.”

Brewer made her first appearance for Dallas Trinity FC on Oct. 17, opening the scoring in the club’s 3-2 win over Chivas Femenil in the 2026 State Fair Clásico at Cotton Bowl Stadium. The international friendly did not count toward official league statistics.

“Kaiya brings pace, vision and a willingness to put pressure on opponents,” said Lee Nguyễn, first team manager and technical director for Dallas Trinity FC. “The Clásico was a great opportunity for her to test herself, and it was encouraging to see her take that chance and score. We’re excited to help her build on that experience and keep developing her game.”

Brewer joins her older sister, Dallas Trinity FC defender Meila Brewer, who signed with the club in September and is representing the United States at the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

PLAYER BIO

Name: Kaiya Brewer

Pronunciation: KAY-uh BROO-er

Position: Attacker

Height: 5-7

Jersey Number: #26

Date of Birth: December 6, 2010 (15)

Hometown: Kansas City, Kansas

Nationality: United States

Previous Club: Kansas City Current II (WPSL)

TRANSACTION: Dallas Trinity FC signs midfielder and forward Kaiya Brewer to an academy contract. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The post Dallas Trinity FC Signs Kaiya Brewer to Academy Contract appeared first on Dallas Weekly.

Based on reporting by The Dallas Weekly.

Black Press

Dallas Mavericks Unite Players, Legends and the Oak Cliff Community at 2026 Community Tip-Off

THE DALLAS WEEKLY — The Dallas Mavericks launched their 2026-27 season by bringing the annual Community Tip-Off directly to the residents of Southern Dallas. Held at Halperin Park in Oak Cliff, the free event attracted approximately 3,000 children and featured current stars alongside franchise legends.

Published

1 week ago

October 27, 2026

BlackPressUSA Newswire

DALLAS, TX - OCTOBER 19: The Dallas Mavericks entire organization was on hand to kick off the season with a community event on October 19, 2026 at Halperin Park in Dallas, Texas. Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 Dallas Mavericks Credit: (Photo by Brandon Colston/Dallas Mavericks Photography) — Credit: (Photo by Brandon Colston/Dallas Mavericks Photography)

Dirk Nowitzki played 21 seasons for the Dallas Mavericks, becoming one of the most recognizable players in franchise history. However, some of the younger fans attending the team’s 2026 Community Tip-Off had a question for the Mavericks legend.

“I’m sure some of these kids didn’t know who I was because they asked,” Nowitzki said. “Some of them asked me, ‘Did you play for the Mavs?’ I think so, when your parents were around.”

It was one of many interactions that took place Monday afternoon as the Mavericks brought their 2026 Community Tip-Off directly to the people of Southern Dallas at Halperin Park in Oak Cliff.

Thousands of children had the opportunity to play basketball, enjoy festivities and spend time with their favorite Mavericks players and legends at the free community event, presented by Ticketmaster.

Dallas Mavericks Community Tip-Off Event at Halperin Park on Monday, October 19, 2026, in Dallas, Texas. (Nicole Malunowicz/Dallas Mavericks)

Mavericks president of business operations Ethan Casson spoke about the planning that went into bringing the celebration to Oak Cliff and the organization’s desire to create something different for the community.

“I think what we wanted to do for this season was really establish something that was about creating something more substantial, being very intentional with our efforts,” Casson said. “What if we showed up in a very grand way?”

That vision helped bring the Mavericks to Halperin Park, a bridge park constructed over Interstate 35E to reconnect Oak Cliff neighborhoods that had been separated by the highway for decades.

“We recognize what this park physically represents, which is connecting communities,” Casson said. “And when you’re able to visit, which we did with April and her team, the vision started to come to life.”

The park officially opened in May after years of planning, fundraising and community involvement. The Mavericks saw an opportunity to bring basketball and entertainment to a space created to strengthen relationships between neighborhoods.

April Allen, president and CEO of the Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation, appreciated the organization choosing Oak Cliff for its season-opening celebration.

“For the Mavs to come here to Oak Cliff, to spend the time, energy and resources that you see here is really a testament to their commitment to community,” Allen said. “We’re so grateful and honored that they chose us for this experience.”

The Mavs Foundation also presented a $50,000 grant to Halperin Park during the celebration, providing additional financial support for the community space.

Dallas City Manager Kimberly Bizor Tolbert attended the event and emphasized the importance of bringing celebrations and resources to Southern Dallas rather than leaving communities behind.

“We’ve got to continue to make sure that our community members are not left behind, and we’ve got to take things and be bold about going and being a part of community assets like Halperin Park,” Tolbert said.

Dallas Mavericks 2025.
(Roberto Hernandez/Dallas Mavericks)

The park represents an opportunity for neighborhoods to reconnect while creating a space where residents can gather and build relationships.

“I see that park as now a bridge that’s going to help us do that, even at a higher level,” Tolbert said.

Nowitzki also recognized the significance of the park and the investment that went into bringing the project to life.

“We all know what this park means to Dallas,” Nowitzki said. “Obviously, it’s been a project that’s been in the works for a long, long time.”

The Mavericks transformed Halperin Park into a gathering place filled with children playing basketball, visiting food vendors and interacting with players they had watched throughout the season.

Casson estimated approximately 3,000 children participated in the Community Tip-Off, including students from kindergarten through sixth-grade after-school programs.

Parents, teachers, local businesses and nonprofit organizations also attended, helping bring different parts of the Southern Dallas community together for the afternoon.

Approximately 200 Mavericks staff members helped organize the celebration, along with basketball operations personnel and corporate partners. Casson emphasized that bringing the entire organization together was an important part of making the event possible.

“When I say it was all hands on deck, it was all hands on deck,” Casson said. “It was really just one goal. How do we make it grand?”

Once the celebration began, the players had opportunities to interact with young fans and share messages about pursuing their dreams.

Mavericks forward Morez Johnson Jr. was among those who took the opportunity to encourage children to believe in themselves and work toward their goals.

“I think it means a lot, you know, to give these kids a lot to look up to,” Johnson said.

Johnson also reflected on messages shared with the children by his teammates, including P.J. Washington, Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg, about working hard and remaining focused on their dreams.

As one of the newer members of the Mavericks organization, Johnson appreciated the welcome he received and the chance to begin building relationships with the Dallas community.

“They welcomed me with open arms,” Johnson said. “I’m excited to get a chance to spend some time with these kids when I’m done with the interviews. I’m grateful to be here.”

For Casson, having players interact with children was one of the most meaningful parts of the celebration. He believes many athletes can relate to the experiences of young fans because of the coaches, teachers and mentors who helped shape their lives.

“To see your superheroes in person and know that those superheroes raised their hand and said they want to be here and be a part of it for this group is pretty special,” Casson said.

Nowitzki has experienced that relationship with Mavericks fans for more than two decades. Although some of the children were too young to remember his playing career, he appreciated the opportunity to connect with another generation.

“It’s cool to still get embraced by the city that I’ve played for for so long and now is my home,” Nowitzki said. “So definitely special. It means a lot.”

While the Community Tip-Off helped introduce the Mavericks to another generation of fans, the organization hopes to continue bringing similar celebrations to neighborhoods throughout Dallas.

Casson said the team plans to make the event an annual tradition, with future celebrations taking place in different communities.

“This is just the beginning,” Casson said. “This celebration we plan to bring to different communities, special communities throughout Dallas, year after year after year.”

The organization’s plans to visit other neighborhoods will not end its involvement in Southern Dallas. Casson emphasized that the Mavericks intend to continue supporting the community through additional programs, resources and investments.

Halperin Park was built to reconnect neighborhoods that had been separated for decades. On Monday, it also brought together generations of Mavericks fans, from those who watched Nowitzki throughout his career to children meeting him and the current team for the first time.

The Mavericks came to Oak Cliff to celebrate the beginning of the 2026-27 NBA season, but their goal extends beyond one afternoon of basketball and entertainment.

For Casson, the lasting impact of the celebration will depend on the organization’s willingness to continue showing up for the communities it serves.

“I think it’s important when you do any event, big or small, that it’s not a one-off,” Casson said. “This is about showing up again and again and again in different ways.”

The post Dallas Mavericks Unite Players, Legends and the Oak Cliff Community at 2026 Community Tip-Off appeared first on Dallas Weekly.

Based on reporting by The Dallas Weekly.

Black Press

NCCU Snap Three – Game Losing Streak with Win over Delaware State University

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY – CAMPUS ECHO — North Carolina Central University snapped a three-game losing streak on Friday with a decisive 31-12 victory over Delaware State University. Despite allowing an early touchdown, the Eagles regained their composure through a strong ground game led by freshman running back Gino Addison, who recorded 214 rushing yards and two scores.

Published

1 week ago

October 27, 2026

BlackPressUSA Newswire

efensive lineman Gary Dorsey (94) pushes through Delaware offense. Photo by Kaden Mclean. — Photo by Kaden Mclean.

N.C. Central University snapped its three-game losing streak Friday, defeating Delaware State University 31-12.

After three consecutive losses, the Eagles entered Friday’s game determined to turn their season around. NCCU played with confidence, communicated effectively and showed greater consistency on both sides of the ball.

The Eagles’ offense struggled to maintain consistency early in the game but gradually found its rhythm, building momentum and moving the ball down the field. Despite allowing the Hornets to score an early touchdown, the Eagles remained focused and continued to fight.

Freshman running back Gino Addison recorded 214 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while sophomore running back Zion Dobson contributed 57 rushing yards and a touchdown.

Sophomore quarterback Cobey Thompkins also connected with fifth-year tight end Luke Bracey for a touchdown, adding to the Eagles’ offensive production.

Freshman specialist kicker Riley Daniels continued to deliver on extra-point attempts following touchdowns. Daniels also made an important tackle during a kickoff against the Hornets, contributing beyond his kicking duties.

The Eagles’ defense remained strong throughout the game, making it difficult for the Hornets to advance the ball and forcing them to punt multiple times.

Freshman defensive back Amari Sifford recorded two interceptions, while senior defensive lineman Zarion Walters contributed a sack to help limit Delaware State’s offensive opportunities.

The Eagles ability to maintain their composure and build momentum helped them secure the 31-12 victory over Delaware State University.

The Eagles enter next week with the record of 3-5.

NCCU will face Howard on October 31st against Howard at O’Kelly – Riddick Stadium streamed on ESPN+.

The post NCCU snap three – game losing streak with win over Delaware State University first appeared on Campus Echo Online.

Based on reporting by North Carolina Central University – Campus Echo.

Black Press

Virginia State Dominates Shaw 76-13 Behind Explosive Second-Quarter Surge

THE CAROLINIAN — Virginia State University delivered a dominant performance against Shaw University in a Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association matchup on Saturday, Oct. 17, securing a 76-13 victory. The Trojans took full control of the contest during a devastating second-quarter surge where they scored 35 unanswered points.

Published

1 week ago

October 27, 2026

BlackPressUSA Newswire

Photos by Steve Worthy

DURHAM, N.C. – Virginia State University delivered a commanding performance against Shaw University on Saturday, October 17, defeating the Bears 76-13 in a Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) football matchup. A devastating 35-0 scoring run in the second quarter helped Virginia State take control of the contest, leaving Shaw struggling to regain momentum.

Shaw showed flashes of offensive potential early in the game, highlighted by a long touchdown reception from wide receiver Reggie King Jr. (2). King celebrated the score alongside teammate Ashton Williams (54), giving the Bears an early offensive highlight despite the eventual lopsided outcome.

Wide receiver Floyd Lyles (3) also contributed to Shaw’s offensive efforts, securing a first-down reception while being defended by Virginia State cornerback Jamontae Dance-Anderson (24). However, the Bears struggled to sustain drives as Virginia State’s defense and special teams continued to create problems.

Virginia State’s offense proved difficult to contain, with quarterback Rashaan Matthews Jr. (2) extending plays with his legs and picking up a first down against the Shaw defense. Running back TJ Mordecai (21) added to the Trojans’ physical offensive attack, delivering a powerful stiff-arm against Shaw linebacker Quadir McEachin (5) during a first-half run.

The Trojans also found success through the air. Wide receiver Kevin Gayles (0) made a first-down reception against Shaw defensive backs Sean McFadden (12) and Antonio Hardge (34). Later in the first half, Gayles hauled in a touchdown reception against Shaw cornerback Antonio Cotman (2), adding to Virginia State’s growing lead.

Special teams difficulties further complicated matters for the Bears. Virginia State’s Ian Wynn (18) blocked a punt attempt by Shaw punter Jethro Ommam (84) during the first half, providing another example of the Trojans’ ability to disrupt Shaw’s game plan.

The defining stretch came in the second quarter, when Virginia State erupted for 35 unanswered points. The scoring surge created a deficit Shaw could not overcome and demonstrated the Trojans’ ability to capitalize on opportunities on both sides of the ball.

Despite individual efforts from King, Lyles and several defensive players, Shaw was unable to slow Virginia State’s offensive production. The Trojans continued to build their advantage, ultimately securing a decisive 76-13 victory.

The loss highlighted the challenges facing Shaw as the Bears continue their CIAA schedule, particularly in limiting explosive plays, protecting the football on special teams and maintaining offensive consistency.

For Virginia State, the victory showcased an explosive offensive attack and a defense capable of disrupting opposing teams, reinforcing the Trojans’ competitive presence in CIAA football.

Based on reporting by The Carolinian.

Black Press

Message from the Associate Editor: Blindness, Hurts, Cops

HOUSTON DEFENDER — Reports regarding Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts have raised serious concerns about the treatment of Black athletes after it was revealed he played through a medical emergency. According to team reports, Hurts was hospitalized until 4 a.m. with a blood clot prior to a Week 5 game in London, yet he was allowed to play the entire game and endure international flights.

Published

1 week ago

October 27, 2026

BlackPressUSA Newswire

Black athlete vulnerability in professional sports, partisan political blindness, and pervasive racial harassment within modern policing systems are all worthy of our examination. Credit: Emilee Chinn/Getty Images — Emilee Chinn/Getty Images.

The Jalen Hurts saga hurts

The disturbing reports surrounding Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, Houston-born Jalen Hurts, raise a troubling question: How much is a Black athlete’s life worth when winning is on the line? According to reports, the Eagles knew Hurts had a blood clot after he was hospitalized until 4 a.m. before the team’s Week 5 game against Jacksonville in London. Nevertheless, he played the entire game and endured international flights before doctors discovered the clot had progressed to deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. He was placed on blood thinners and injured reserve (out for the season). Sports medicine physician Jesse Morse warned that migrating clots could cause a fatal pulmonary blockage, heart attack, or stroke. Pulmonologist Matthew Gordon acknowledged that blood clots can be catastrophic or fatal. Beyond the medical questions, this episode reflects a disturbing American tradition: Treating Black bodies as expendable commodities. From slavery to exploitative labor practices and generations of dangerous sports, Black people have repeatedly been expected to sacrifice their well-being for others’ profits. The NFL’s predominantly Black workforce is literally “fieldhands” making their wealthy “owners” wealthier, giving serious plantation vibes. What’s crazy is, Hurts could have died. And if he had, the Eagles would have simply put another Black body to work and kept it moving.

Blind by choice

Recently, a Black woman conservative social media influencer was physically removed from a Ken Paxton voter event. And as she fought back tears, after being “dog-walked” out of the building, she kept asking, “Why?” She told her followers that she has been a faithful supporter of Donald Trump and the entire Republican ticket. She said she not only voted for Trump and crew, but also organized and volunteered for them on various campaigns. Before she got to the event, she went live on social media, bubbling with excitement about supporting Paxton, which is crazy, because no one is excited about supporting Paxton. But her MAGA-fest was abruptly ended as her live-stream followers saw her suddenly teary-eyed, being led out of the event space. “And there’s no one I can talk to about this,” she asked her exit escort, dumbfounded. She then shared with her MAGA followers, “Someone just came up to me and said Ken Paxton’s campaign manager wanted me to leave… I drove two hours to get here, and I have done nothing but support everyone on the Republican side. And this is how I get treated? I cannot believe the disrespect that I was just given.” Blackfolk in the comments section couldn’t believe that soul sister couldn’t understand what was happening. But you, if she’s been willing to play blind and support one of the most anti-Black regimes in history, and organize for a party that has gone out of its way to disrespect every ounce of Black existence, then I can understand why she couldn’t see their disrespect of her Blackness. But since she’s already given her soul to anti-Blackness, you best believe she’s still voting for Paxton. In fact, she literally said so.

Mecklenburg racist police competitions

It’s old news by now that several Charlotte-Mecklenburg cops sent text messages to each other, degrading Black people with the N-word and racist jokes, celebrating their open competition to see which racist-ass officer could pull over, harass, and even inflict the most bodily harm on Black motorists. Their Klan-ish fun and games had zero to do with Black people breaking the law. It was just white cops making a sport out of terrorizing Black people, using the authority of the state and their literal license to kill to torture Black people emotionally and physically. And they used Flock cameras to help them with their fun and games. But what’s older news is the fact that these are the very actions Blackfolk have been pointing out from cops for centuries. These six cops got caught via text messages. But police in every city and state routinely take this same approach to law enforcement.

Based on reporting by Houston Defender.