The Indianapolis Black Chamber of Commerce will host the official tip-off party for the HBCU All-Star Experience on Saturday, April 4, as part of a championship weekend celebration in the city.
The event is intended to welcome visitors and highlight the culture and history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities as Indianapolis hosts national HBCU athletic events.
Chamber representatives said the weekend is designed to increase visibility for student-athletes while connecting the community with local businesses and university alumni.
The tip-off party is scheduled from 7 p.m. to midnight at La Flaca at the Square, 3733 Commercial Drive on the city’s west side. The event, open to adults, will feature a live performance by Toy Factory. Organizers said coaches and players from HBCU All-Star rosters are expected to attend.
Gary Naylor, a representative of the Indianapolis Black Chamber of Commerce and a graduate of Texas Southern University, said the event showcases the city’s ability to host national collegiate programs, brings visibility to both HBCU schools and Indianapolis, and allows schools to represent their players and teams.
Naylor said the weekend also gives the public an opportunity to see the level of talent in HBCU athletic programs and allows individuals to watch how players perform, adding that the exposure could help some athletes advance to larger programs.
Beyond athletics, Naylor said HBCUs have a lasting impact on professional and community life, with many graduates going on to careers in business and politics. He said his own experience as an HBCU athlete provided a strong education and noted that many graduates go on to do significant work in their communities.
He added that personal connections formed at HBCUs can be long-lasting, noting his daughter became a nurse after graduating from an HBCU and developed meaningful connections while learning about her history.
Anita Williams, co-founder of the Indy Black Chamber of Commerce, said additional weekend activities will include a vendor fair featuring about 25 local businesses near the game site, offering items such as clothing, boutique goods, lotions, and popcorn.
