Courtesy of Alabama State University
As the 2025 NCAA basketball tournament approaches, the spotlight is on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), showcasing both individual talent and team achievements. The Alabama State Hornets have clinched their spot in the NCAA Tournament after a triumphant run in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) tournament.
On March 19, Alabama State men’s basketball claimed victory over Texas Southern (84-79), Grambling State (64-62), and Jackson State (60-56) in a series of intense matchups, marking a significant accomplishment for the Hornets this season. This triumph secures Alabama State’s fifth appearance in the NCAA Division I Tournament, adding to their previous bids in 2001, 2004, 2009, and 2011.
Despite a challenging season that saw them finish with a 19-15 record, the Hornets are currently riding a six-game winning streak. In their NCAA tournament history, they have achieved limited success, winning just one game against Saint Francis in the 2001 First Four Games, while they lost to legendary teams like Michigan State, Duke, and UTSA.
The 2025 SWAC championships were exciting, showcasing both skill and determination. Alabama State’s success aligns with the broader narrative of HBCUs making strides on the national basketball stage, especially during March Madness. Coach Tony Madlock—a seasoned figure in college basketball with coaching stints dating back to 1997—guides this year’s team to an impressive comeback after finishing 8-23 last season.
In tandem with the Hornets’ achievements, Bethune-Cookman University is celebrating notable athlete recognition. On March 17, Jesus Carralero Martin and Kayla Clark were named to the 2025 HBCU All-Star Game roster, slated for April 6 at Freeman Coliseum in San Antonio, Texas. Martin, a senior point guard from Malaga, Spain, has been a cornerstone for the B-CU men’s team, particularly during the 2024-25 season. His impressive statistics include 43 steals and 53 blocks, along with ranking second on the team for assists and finishing third for rebounds.
Martin made history for B-CU by recording a triple-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists in a game against Grambling State. His impactful contributions have helped lead his team into the SWAC Men’s Basketball Tournament semifinals for the second consecutive year.
Meanwhile, Kayla Clark is wrapping up her collegiate career on a high note. As a four-year letterwinner for B-CU, Clark showcased her versatility and skill on the court, concluding the season with 256 points, 220 rebounds, and a team-high 32 blocks. Over her career, she amassed a total of 905 points, solidifying her legacy with the Wildcats and helping return her team to the SWAC Women’s Basketball Tournament for the first time since 2023.
The HBCU All-Star Game aims to highlight athletic talent while promoting educational opportunities within the HBCU community. The game is a celebration of culture and history, providing a platform for showcasing the remarkable achievements of these institutions.
Additionally, Texas Southern University continues to navigate the unpredictable landscape of collegiate basketball. Recently, star point guard Kavion McClain announced his decision to enter the NCAA transfer portal. McClain expressed gratitude toward his coaching staff, teammates, and the experiences he gained while at Texas Southern. During his tenure, McClain became a key player, averaging 13.9 points per game while securing a spot as a second-team All-SWAC honoree.
As Texas Southern prepares for the Postseason Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT), they will host St. Mary’s on March 20. This marks a critical moment for the Lady Tigers, who secured an automatic qualifier for the tournament, showcasing the strength and potential of their program. The Lady Tigers finished the season with a 16-15 record and are looking to build on their momentum.
Meanwhile, discussions surrounding HBCU basketball’s performance in the NCAA tournament highlight an interesting trajectory. Historically, HBCUs have participated in a significant number of opening round or First Four games, showcasing both endurance and resilience. Notably, Texas Southern holds the distinction of having the most appearances, while Alabama State looks to join the ranks with their recent win.
HBCUs have had their ups and downs in tournament history, such as the 1-7 record compiled from 2001-2010 and claiming a mixed performance with an overall record of 1-4 in the NCAA big dance. Despite the challenges, HBCUs have shown they can compete at high levels, with a substantial presence in postseason play. As the tournament nears, excitement builds not only for the teams qualifying but also for individual student-athletes like Martin and Clark, who represent the future stars of college basketball.
The teams and profiles emerging this season not only render competitive spirit but also reflect on the significant strides HBCUs are making in the athletics realm. As March Madness unfolds, fans eagerly anticipate seeing the outcomes of these teams, especially as they look to rise and achieve success within a competitive landscape.