Fifth Annual HBCU All-Star Game Takes Center Stage in Indianapolis During NCAA Championship Weekend

While the nation's eyes are fixed on the NCAA Men's Basketball Championship, Indianapolis is hosting another exciting basketball showcase this weekend—the fifth annual HBCU All-Star game, bringing together over 20 of the best senior basketball players from HBCUs across the nation.

Since arriving Thursday morning, the elite group of HBCU seniors has received the VIP treatment throughout the city, practicing Friday and Saturday at Corteva Coliseum, where Sunday's highly anticipated matchup will take place.

Former Rivals Become Teammates

The game will feature Prairie View A&M's Byron Smith coaching Team Sam Jones against Tennessee State's Nolan Smith, who leads Team Bob Dandridge. The unique format brings together players who spent their careers as conference opponents, creating memorable moments off the court.

Kintavious Dozier, an All-SWAC performer from Alabama A&M whom Coach Byron Smith faced throughout his playing career, spoke about the experience after Saturday's practice.

Oh it's very fun. Especially when we get in the locker room. We have these different stories and point of views to tell when we were playing each other.



I think it's pretty cool.

A Weekend of Recognition and Community

Following Saturday's final practice, event founder Travis L. Williams presented each player with a free pair of Air Jordans, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The weekend's activities extended beyond basketball, featuring a social justice panel discussion and a visit to Fan Fest outside Lucas Oil Stadium.

Team Sam Jones represents the SWAC, CIAA, and Independent schools, featuring standouts including:

• Jacob Cooper (Virginia State) - 5-8 point guard from Virginia Beach
• Tyler Shirley (Florida A&M) - 6-8 power forward from Atlanta
• Josh Ogundele (Hampton) - 7-0 center from London, England
• Nick Woodard (Alcorn State) - 6-6 small forward from Oglethorpe, GA

Team Bob Dandridge represents the MEAC, SIAC, and Independent schools, with notable players such as:

• Dionte Johnson (North Carolina Central) - 6-0 point guard from Bronx, NY
• Bryce Harris (Howard) - 6-4 small forward from Brentwood, NY
• Cameron Clark (South Carolina State) - 6-10 center from Gwinnett, GA
• Travis Harper II (Tennessee State) - 6-6 shooting guard from Columbus, GA

As Indianapolis hosts the pinnacle of college basketball this weekend, the HBCU All-Star game ensures that the excellence and talent from historically Black colleges and universities are prominently featured in the celebration.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.