HAMPTON, Va. (July 8, 2025) … Hampton University has been invited to play in the 2026 NBA HBCU Classic, presented by AT&T, as part of NBA All-Star 2026 in Los Angeles. The Prates will take on Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) foe North Carolina A&T in the contest.
 
Hampton University director of athletics 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," said Henderson. "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. Thank you to the NBA and the CAA for this unbelievable opportunity as we look forward to bringing Pirate pride to the West Coast and providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our student-athletes."
 
Hampton coach Ivan Thomas said. "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."
 
Hampton basketball great and NBA standout Rick Mahorn delivered a video message congratulating his alma mater and recalling that he had been an television broadcaster at the very first NBA HBCU Classic played in Cleveland.
 
NBA Senior Vice President of Social Responsibility and Player Programs Tatia Williams said, "I've had the pleasure of working on this HBCU Classic from the beginning. This is an entire experience, and you will be treated like the All-Stars we know you all are."
 
CAA Commissioner Joe D'Antonio said, "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. The ability to work with the world's premier organization for basketball is an incredible opportunity that aligns with the core values of the Conference and its membership in maintaining the importance of being 'United in Excellence'."

The 2026 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T is a continuation of the NBA's commitment to increasing support and awareness for HBCU athletics and advancing educational, career and economic opportunities in partnership with HBCUs.

For ticket information about the HBCU Classic click the following link.