Tuskegee Coach's Ejection Highlights HBCU Rivalry, Need for Sportsmanship

In a tense moment that captured the intensity of HBCU basketball rivalries, Tuskegee University head coach Benjy Taylor was handcuffed and escorted off the court following his team's 77-69 loss to Morehouse College on Saturday night.

The incident, which unfolded in the aftermath of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) matchup, has sparked outrage and introspection within the HBCU community. As the facts and narratives surrounding the event continue to unfold, one thing is clear: this confrontation underscores the need for enhanced sportsmanship and security protocols to protect the student-athletes, coaches, and fans who make HBCU basketball so special.

According to reports, the incident began when Morehouse football players allegedly joined the postgame handshake line, a direct violation of SIAC protocol. Coach Taylor, in an effort to enforce conference rules and ensure the safety of all involved, requested that security intervene. However, the situation quickly escalated, with officers detaining Taylor and describing him as "very aggressive" - a claim that Tuskegee's athletic director, Reginald Ruffin, refuted.

"We have security measures for the protection of our officials, our student-athletes, coaches, and spectators," Ruffin told HBCU Gameday.



"Those measures are mandated by the conference office and used across all member institutions."

In the aftermath, Coach Taylor expressed his heartbreak and frustration, stating that he was simply trying to maintain order and prevent a dangerous situation from escalating further.

"I was simply trying to get the football team out of the handshake line as they were yelling obscenities," he told The Field of 68. "It was a very dangerous situation. For my players and my family to see me treated that way was devastating."

As the HBCU community grapples with this incident, it's clear that the passion and intensity of HBCU rivalries must be balanced with a renewed emphasis on sportsmanship, security, and the wellbeing of all involved.

HBCUConnect's Perspective

At HBCUConnect, we recognize the importance of preserving the rich traditions and fierce rivalries that define HBCU sports. However, this incident serves as a sobering reminder that the safety and dignity of our student-athletes, coaches, and fans must always be the top priority. As the premier online community for HBCU alumni and supporters, we call for a renewed commitment to fostering an environment of mutual respect and professionalism, both on and off the court. By addressing issues like this head-on, we can ensure that the next generation of HBCU student-athletes and fans can continue to celebrate the unique spirit and camaraderie that makes HBCU basketball so special.

Originally reported by HBCU Sports.