HAMPTON, Va. (Hampton University Athletics) — Hampton University has been invited to play in the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic as part of NBA All-Star 2026 festivities in Los Angeles and will take on Coastal Athletic Association foe North Carolina A&T.
Hampton Athletic Director Anthony D. Henderson Sr. officially accepted the invitation at a press conference at the Hampton Convocation Center.
“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,” Henderson said. “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.”
Said Hampton University coach Ivan Thomas: “Congratulations once again to our very own Hampton University men’s basketball team for being selected to compete in the 2026 NBA All-Star HBCU Classic against North Carolina A&T. It is a tremendous honor and a testament to the growth of our program.”
Former NBA All-Star and Virginia native Ralph Sampson made the official announcement.
“Hampton University will participate in the 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend in Los Angeles in the NBA HBCU Classic against North Carolina A&T,” Sampson said.
Hampton basketball great and NBA standout Rick Mahorn delivered a video message congratulating his alma mater and recalled he had been an television broadcaster at the very first NBA HBCU Classic played in Cleveland.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working on this HBCU Classic from the beginning,” said
NBA Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility and Player Programs Tatia Williams. “This is an entire experience, and you will be treated like the All-Stars we know you all are.”
Said CAA Commissioner Joe D’Antonio: “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.”
