In an effort to further put the spotlight on athletic programs of HBCU’s, Michael B. Jordan has announced that he plans on launching the Hoop Dreams Classic — a Division 1 NCAA tournament. The tournament is slated to be held in his hometown of Newark, NJ at the Prudential Center on December 18th, 2021. Details of the tournament are still being fleshed out, but from what we’ve learned four of the top D-I HBCU men’s and women’s basketball teams will be included in the tourney. Other draws for the tournament will include “live musical performances, film festivals, culinary events and college and career opportunities”.
“This past year has been the tipping point for so many, including myself, in revving up support for Black people,” Jordan said in a statement. “As a Newark native, I am committed to bringing change to the community and am honored to be able to present The Hoop Dreams Classic as a way to celebrate the value of community, education, and Black college experiences. Through our shared love of basketball, I look forward to bringing the communal spirit of HBCUs to the city that helped shape me into the man I am today.”
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