Hampton University and North Carolina A&T have announced that the two historic institutions will square off in an in-conference matchup at the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic.
The game will be a featured event during NBA All-Star 2026 festivities in Los Angeles.
CAA Commissioner Joe D’Antonio expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“The CAA is excited to partner with the NBA in showcasing the Hampton and North Carolina A&T men’s basketball programs in a conference matchup set to take place in the NBA HBCU Classic. The NBA has been a consistent supporter in bringing elevated exposure to HBCUs. The ability to work with the world’s premier organization for basketball is an incredible opportunity that aligns with the core values of the Conference and its membership in maintaining the importance of being ‘United in Excellence.’ We are eager to see two of our institutions shine at NBA All-Star 2026 in February.”
The 2026 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T continues the league’s commitment to supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), aiming to boost awareness and expand educational, career, and economic opportunities in partnership with these storied institutions.
A national stage for HBCU traditions
Hampton University Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Anthony D. Henderson, Sr., shared his excitement:
“We are incredibly honored and excited for Hampton Men’s Basketball to participate in the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic during NBA All-Star 2026 in Los Angeles. This is not only a tremendous opportunity for two historic institutions to showcase the talent, tradition, and excellence of our student-athletes on a national stage, but also a celebration of the rich legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Thank you to the NBA and the CAA for this unbelievable opportunity as we look forward to bringing Pirate pride to the West Coast and providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our student-athletes.”
North Carolina A&T Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Earl M. Hilton III, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the deep-rooted rivalry and shared history:
“North Carolina A&T State University looks forward to taking our wonderful college basketball rivalry with Hampton University, steeped with rich history of both historically black institutions, and showcase it to the world at the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic during NBA All-Star 2026 in Los Angeles. Both schools have produced quality student-athletes from Al Attles to Rick Mahorn and have shaped American history with such prominent figures as the A&T Four and Booker T. Washington. Therefore, it will be an honor to share this international stage with Hampton University. The NBA and the CAA have provided us with a wonderful opportunity, and Coach Ross and our student-athletes will be sure to bring Aggie Pride to LA.”
The 2026 NBA HBCU Classic promises to be a showcase of athletic talent, tradition, and the enduring legacy of HBCUs. As anticipation builds, both universities and the CAA look forward to representing their communities and celebrating excellence on one of basketball’s biggest stages. Further details will be released as NBA All-Star 2026 approaches.