ESPN's "First Take" Brings National Spotlight to Virginia State University

VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY, VA — Virginia State University is about to take center stage in the national sports and culture conversation. On Friday, October 9, 2026, ESPN's acclaimed morning show First Take will broadcast live from The Hill at VSU, delivering a coast-to-coast platform for one of the nation's most storied historically Black universities to showcase its "Greater" legacy, culture, and impact.

The live broadcast lands on Homecoming Friday, one of the most electric days on any HBCU calendar — a moment when alumni return home, the marching band fills the air, and Trojan Pride is on full display.

First Take has become one of the most influential voices in American sports media, and its decision to broadcast from an HBCU campus reflects a growing national appreciation for the culture, tradition, and talent that historically Black colleges and universities represent. For VSU students, alumni, and the broader Trojan family, the broadcast is more than a television moment — it is validation of a university that has spent generations graduating informed citizens, globally competitive leaders, and highly effective, ethical professionals.

Founded in 1882, Virginia State University has long been a cornerstone of HBCU education, blending rigorous academics with a rich athletic and cultural tradition. A live national broadcast on Homecoming weekend amplifies that story to prospective students, employers, and supporters far beyond Petersburg, reinforcing why VSU encourages the community to "Invest in the Greater."

For the HBCU Connect community — students, alumni, and the employers who recruit our nation's brightest Black talent — moments like this underscore the enduring power and visibility of HBCUs on the biggest stages. Whether you are a proud Trojan, an HBCU supporter, or simply a fan of great sports television, mark your calendar for Friday, October 9, and tune in as First Take shines a national light on Virginia State University.

Trojans, show up and show out. Learn more about Virginia State University at www.vsu.edu, and connect with fellow HBCU students, alumni, and employers right here on HBCU Connect.