NEW YORK – The Grambling State University and Southern University men’s basketball programs have been selected to play in the NBA HBCU Classic 2023.
The Southwestern Athletic Conference matchup will take place on Saturday, Feb. 18 at 3 p.m. at the University of Utah’s Jon M. Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City as part of NBA All-Star 2023. It will be simulcast on TNT, ESPN2 and NBA TV.
NBA legends Bob Love (Southern alum) and Willis Reed (Grambling State alum) have been named honorary captains of the 2023 NBA HBCU Classic. Love and Reed will represent their alma maters leading up to the game.
“My pathway from Southern to the NBA has opened countless doors for me,” said Love. “I am proud to support the NBA in using the game of basketball to celebrate the rich history of HBCUs and drive opportunity for the next generation of leaders both on and off the court.”
“I credit my career in part to my time at Grambling State,” said Reed. “The HBCU Classic will provide what is to most a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play on the NBA stage and serve as a platform for those interested in the business side of the game to gain industry insight and make lasting connections.”
The teams were selected in collaboration with the SWAC. The NBA HBCU Classic continues the league’s ongoing, year-round commitment to advancing educational, career and economic opportunities in partnership with HBCU institutions as well as increasing support and awareness for HBCU athletics.
“We are extremely excited and honored to represent Grambling State University at the NBA HBCU Classic,” said Grambling Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Trayvean Scott.
“Grambling State is an iconic name brand. We knew when this opportunity was presented to us, it was the right decision to not only bring SWAC basketball to the NBA All-Star, but to continue to bring awareness and increased support to HBCU athletics.”
Tickets for the NBA HBCU Classic 2023 will go on sale in December.
