By Darryl Harding Sr –
The third annual Legacy Classic, deemed ”The Battle of the HUs, took place as The Hampton University Pirates hosted Howard University Bison. Although not even in the same conference, this rivalry is one that has spanned nearly a hundred years.
Howard University starting off on a 9-0 run basically controlled the game throughout the first half and found themselves with a seven-point advantage of 34-27 at the half. Regardless of the outcome, this nationally televised HBCU game marks a positive growth and attention brought to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Considered the “Black Ivy,” these universities were here to educate African-Americans when other universities wouldn’t. Michael B Jordan, director and star of Creed III, and an HBCU graduate himself, talked of the importance of HBCUs and their commitment to education.
The Morehouse man spoke in reference to the Legacy Classics’ growth, “on the biggest stage… the nationally televised game and how much the crowd actually means… the support that you’re giving these HBCUs, all these players, it means the world to them.”
Desperately trying to maintain a lead, Howard University, unfortunately fell short due to two timely three pointers, in the last 1:04, by Jerry Deng (21 pts). Strong free throws down the stretch by Jordan Nesbitt sealed the Bisons’ fate.
Despite double-doubles from Dom Campbell, ten rebounds and 18 points, and Bryce Harris, 14 rebounds and 16 points, the Bisons regrettably fell short. With a 9-14 record, the Bisons travel to Delaware State for a game Monday at 7:30 p.m. and Hampton 5-18 will host Hofstra, Thursday night at 7:00 p.m.
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