HBCU Volleyball Standouts Shine in Competitive Doubleheader

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky State Thorobreds men's volleyball team faced a tough non-conference slate on Friday, but their star players stood out in a pair of closely contested matches at the Exum Center.

In the first game, the Thorobreds took on the Oakland City Mighty Oaks, a competitive NCAA Division II program. Though Kentucky State ultimately fell in straight sets, senior outside hitter Joshua Patterson put on an impressive individual performance, tallying a match-high 14 kills and adding 8 digs.

In the second match, the Thorobreds faced an even tougher challenge against the University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks, an NCAA Division I program.

"Jahmal is the heart and soul of our team," said Kentucky State head coach Ray Hines. "He plays with such passion and leaves it all on the court every single match."

While the Thorobreds came up short on the scoreboard, their star players' performances highlighted the rich tradition of excellence in HBCU men's volleyball. Programs like Kentucky State may not receive the same level of national attention as their larger, better-resourced counterparts, but they cultivate talented student-athletes who can compete with the best.

HBCUConnect Perspective: Stories like this showcase the resilience and determination of HBCU student-athletes, who often overcome significant obstacles to excel at the highest levels of competition. By shining a spotlight on the achievements of players like Joshua Patterson and Jahmal Coleman, we can celebrate the unsung heroes of HBCU sports and inspire the next generation of Black college athletes to pursue their dreams.

Originally reported by SIAC Sports.