HBCU men’s basketball programs hit with NCAA penalties

By Stephen J. Gaither

The latest NCAA APR numbers are out and Southern University is leading the way for men’s HBCU basketball, but many others didn’t fare as well.

These scores reflect the academic performance and retention of student-athletes over a multi-year period. Programs scoring below a 930 multi-year face penalties, which can include practice reductions, and these penalties are intended to encourage institutions to focus on the academic success of their student-athletes.

Southern University’s multi-year rate of 973 is tops among all HBCU basketball men’s programs. Just behind it is Alabama State University at 968.

A total of three HBCUs — North Carolina Central, Prairie View A&M and Tennessee State University — all scored 957 overall.

NCCU’s score was tops among MEAC institutions. Three of the conference’s eight basketball programs were hit with Level One penalties — including two-time defending champion Howard University. South Carolina State (918) and Delaware State (906) were hit with Level One penalties, resulting in a reduction of practice time.

Two SWAC programs — Bethune-Cookman and Mississippi Valley State — were hit with Level One penalties as well.

North Carolina A&T men’s basketball faces a Level One penalty as well.