Las Vegas HBCU Classic: A Celebration of Black Culture and Football
The inaugural Las Vegas HBCU Classic is more than just a football game; it's an experience, a collision of college football and entertainment set against the backdrop of the city of bright lights. The game features a face-off between Jackson State University and Grambling State University. The event promises to be an unapologetic celebration of Black culture.
Genesis of the Classic
Raiders President Sandra Douglass Morgan revealed the enthusiastic support for the event, stating, "When I was first approached about the Las Vegas HBCU Classic, I went to my boss, Mark Davis, and he was like, absolutely. Get it done." This enthusiasm underscores the Raiders' commitment to HBCUs, a relationship that stretches back decades.
A Nod to History
The Raiders and Grambling State share a rich history, highlighted by the acquisition of Willie Brown, a Pro Football Hall of Fame cornerback. According to Glover, the influence of HBCU games extended to the Raiders' entertainment style, inspiring the team's dancers, band performances, and overall game excitement. Al Davis also drafted quarterback Elridge Dickey from HBCU program Tennessee State.
Myles, recalling his trade from the Giants, shared, "Mr. Davis was coming out of the building and he started walking in my direction. And when Mr. Davis came and talked to me, he let me know how happy he was to have me and how he especially loved to come get good players from HBCUs."
Showcasing Talent and Opportunity
Glover emphasized the Classic's significance in providing a platform for HBCU talent and inspiring future generations. "We just wanted to have an opportunity to showcase our talent, and for me, I think we have the opportunity to allow the next generation to see where you could go," he said.
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The Allure of Las Vegas
Las Vegas has a historical connection to Black culture, dating back to Sammy Davis Jr. and Nat King Cole headlining on the Strip. Glover expressed his appreciation, saying, "I appreciate the Raiders and I appreciate Las Vegas for thinking of us to bring a game of this magnitude to Las Vegas and to showcase our talent and allow our fanbase to come from all over the country."
Jackson State's Unique Flavor
Myles, who transferred to Jackson State from Mississippi State, described the program's unique appeal: "Just really a family mentality, lot of soul involved. We put our special thing on everything we do as far as football, the music, Greek life." He added, "It was really just an electric atmosphere. It was almost like it was a game going on, but it was a party at the same time. It's a scene that you can't hardly duplicate."
A Week of Festivities
The Las Vegas HBCU Classic extends beyond the football game itself, encompassing a series of events designed to celebrate HBCU culture and tradition.
Pep Rally
On the eve of the game, a spirited pep rally will capture the energy and tradition of HBCU football. The celebration will feature performances from both school bands, a local step team, and appearances from representatives of each school’s athletic department.
HBCU Mixer
The HBCU Mixer, hosted by the Jackson State University and Grambling State University alumni organizations, invites HBCU alumni, members of Divine Nine organizations, and supporters from across the community to come together for an evening of connection and celebration. The event will feature a live DJ, light bites, and vendor booths, creating a vibrant atmosphere that highlights the spirit and legacy of HBCUs.
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Pregame Tailgate
The official tailgate lot will open at noon (12:00 PM) in Lot B, located at the northwest corner of Allegiant Stadium near the intersection of Hacienda and Polaris. This welcoming gathering spot will serve as the ultimate pregame destination for HBCU fans to come together, celebrate, and build excitement ahead of kickoff. Alumni, students, and supporters are invited to join in the festivities, enjoy the camaraderie, and showcase their school pride in true HBCU tradition.
Gospel Brunch
The Las Vegas HBCU Classic Gospel Brunch, sponsored by the Las Vegas Raiders, invites the community to an uplifting afternoon of soul-stirring gospel music at Resorts World Las Vegas. This in-person celebration will highlight talented performers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, bringing together faith, music, and culture in a vibrant setting. Whether you're a longtime gospel fan or new to the genre, the event promises to inspire and uplift all who attend.
HBCU GO: The Official Broadcast Partner
The Las Vegas Raiders and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) announced Allen Media Group's (AMG) free-streaming service HBCU GO as the official broadcast and streaming partner for the inaugural Las Vegas HBCU Classic on October 25, 2025, at Allegiant Stadium.
Byron Allen, Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group, stated, "HBCU sports consistently delivers some of the world's best athletes and competition available."
The broadcast will include pre-game analysis, halftime coverage featuring performances from Grambling State's "World Famed" Tiger Marching Band and Jackson State's "Sonic Boom of the South," and post-game insights from players and coaches. The event will be broadcast and streaming on HBCUGO.TV.
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HBCU GO, launched in 2012 and purchased by Byron Allen in 2021, serves as a cultural lifestyle destination and leading sports media provider, embracing and representing the voice of Black Excellence. It provides a platform for emerging creatives in media production, branding, and broadcasting.
Allen Media Group (AMG) also owns the digital streaming platforms SPORTS.TV, THEGRIO, THE WEATHER CHANNEL STREAMING APP, and LOCAL NOW. AMG produces, distributes, and sells advertising for 74 television programs and has a library of over 5,000 hours of owned content.
Beyond the Game: Educational Advancement
In addition to showcasing top-tier HBCU football, the Classic also serves as a platform to celebrate culture, tradition, and educational advancement through experiences like the DREAM Foundation internship program.
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