This week the Coastal Athletics Association (CAA) announced that Hampton University and North Carolina A&T State University will face off in the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T during NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles. This matchup and the NBA HBCU Classic is a continuation of the NBA’s commitment to elevating historically black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by giving them a stage during one of basketball’s most coveted events.
“The CAA is excited to partner with the NBA in showcasing the Hampton and North Carolina A&T men’s basketball programs,” said CAA Commissioner Joe D’Antonio. “The ability to work with the world’s premier organization for basketball is an incredible opportunity that aligns with the core values of the conference and its membership in maintaining the importance of being ‘United in Excellence’. ”
Launched in 2022, the NBA HBCU Classic was created to highlight the cultural significance and talent within America’s HBCUs. The 2026 edition will mark the first time the event features a CAA conference matchup.
Hampton University Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Anthony D. Henderson, Sr. expressed his excitement on the matchup.
“This is not only a tremendous opportunity for two historic institutions to showcase the talent, tradition, and excellence of our student-athletes,” Henderson said, “but also a celebration of the rich legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. We look forward to bringing Pirate pride to the West Coast and providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our student-athletes.”
North Carolina A&T Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Earl M. Hilton III also praised the announcement, emphasizing the importance of the historic rivalry between the two schools being featured on such a large platform.
“North Carolina A&T State University looks forward to taking our wonderful college basketball rivalry with Hampton University, steeped with the rich history of both historically black institutions, and showcase it to the world,” Hilton said. “Both schools have produced quality student-athletes and have shaped American history with such prominent figures. It will be an honor to share this international stage with Hampton University – our student-athletes will be sure to bring Aggie Pride to LA.”
The latest chapter in an iconic rivalry between two of the most prominent HBCU programs comes after both schools transitioned from the MEAC and Big South to join the CAA. Hampton and North Carolina A&T officially became members in 2022, with A&T’s football program following in 2023. Both institutions continue to compete at a high level while investing in the academic and athletic development of their student athletes.
As the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend approaches, the spotlight on both HBCUs continues to grow. This year’s NBA HBCU Classic promises not only thrilling basketball but also a celebration of tradition and the institutions’ excelling athletic departments.
The exact date, time, and broadcast details for the game will be announced at a later date. However fans can already register for ticket updates through the CAA and NBA’s official platforms and are being encouraged to stay tuned for more details on what is expected to be a landmark event in HBCU and college basketball history.
Rising Junior at the Philip Merrill College of Journalism
UMD '27