2016 Steelers Roster, 90 in 90 Days: Javon Hargrave another rookie vying for significant playing time

PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania -- As training camp draws closer the 90 day series shifts it’s attention to an explosive rookie interior linemen

Player: Javon Hargrave

Position: Interior Line

School: South Carolina State

Overview:
The selection of Javan Hargrave and his potential of sliding into the NT position for the Steelers is a real embodiment of the shifting nature of their defensive philosophy. It seems like a sign that the days of Casey Hampton and Vince Wilfork type 2 gap, block eating monsters have ended, for now. Enter Hargrave who played his college ball at South Carolina State as an accomplished pass rusher who put up some eye popping numbers including tying and FBS record with six in a single game.

Granted, stepping into the NFL from the MEAC conference will be a major challenge, but after 2015 where Cameron Heyward and Stephon Tuitt really led the charge much of the time on the pass rush it will be interesting to see how he fits into the game plan.

While it seems unlikely that Hargrave will win a starting spot coming out of camp it’s more than plausible for him to see time subbing in on obvious passing downs and replacing for Tuitt or Heyward when they need breaks.

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2016-17 NSU Basketball Schedule Announced

2016-17 Men's Basketball Schedule

NORFOLK, Virginia – Head coach Robert Jones and the Norfolk State men's basketball program officially announced their full 2016-17 schedule on Tuesday. NSU will host four non-conference games in the early part of the season and play six of its first nine MEAC games at home as well.

The Spartans play two teams from the SEC, one from the Big Ten and one from the Big East as part of their non-conference schedule. Overall, four of Norfolk State's opponents competed in the NCAA tournament last year.

"This year's schedule is as tough as it gets," said Jones. "We will be tested early and often by some of the top high- and mid-majors in the country. This schedule is also a product of recent success during a five-year span. It is becoming more and more difficult to schedule like opponents, thus the level of competition willing to play us has increased."

The Spartans host Shenandoah University and renew one of their longest rivalries with Elizabeth City State to highlight their early home schedule. NSU also welcomes Northern Kentucky and Eastern Kentucky to Joseph Echols Hall before diving into conference play. In addition, the Spartans will play an open exhibition game at Virginia State on Nov. 5 in Petersburg.

"Renewing these two old rivalries with Virginia State and Elizabeth City State is something we thought would be good for the fans," stated Jones. "Despite it being an exhibition against the Trojans, we know everyone will be chomping at the bit for that game. Exposing our players to a hostile environment before the season starts against the defending CIAA champion, a Division I caliber team in my opinion, will pay dividends down the road for us."

The regular season starts off with a Friday night contest at Mississippi State on Nov. 11. NSU's busy opening week includes the home games with Shenandoah on Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. and Elizabeth City State on Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. The Spartans then hit the road for a week straight, competing at Vanderbilt on Nov. 18 and at Butler on Nov. 21 – both NCAA tournament participants last year – as part of the 2016 Continental Tire Las Vegas Invitational.

Following the game against the Bulldogs, NSU will fly out to Las Vegas for two games at Orleans Arena on Nov. 24 and 25. On its side of the bracket, Norfolk State plays Bucknell on Thanksgiving and then either Sacred Heart or Northern Colorado on day 2.

"We are extremely excited to be invited to this tournament," Jones continued. "It is an honor for this program and university to face the likes of SEC-member Vanderbilt, a very tough Butler team that could possibly be top 25, as well as top mid-majors in Bucknell, who competed in the NIT last year, and Northern Colorado and Sacred Heart."

NSU will close out the opening month of the season with a contest at Loyola Chicago on Nov. 30. The Spartans then return home to host Northern Kentucky on Dec. 3 at 6 p.m., followed by road games at Niagara on Dec. 10 and at Evansville on Dec. 14, the latter of whom did not go to the postseason last year but nevertheless finished 25-9 overall and as the runner-up in the Missouri Valley Conference tournament.

The last non-conference home contest takes place on Dec. 19 against Eastern Kentucky at 7 p.m. NSU then closes out non-conference play with a game at NCAA participant Purdue on Dec. 21 and at Bowling Green on Dec. 30.

"It will be a difficult challenge facing Mississippi State in the season opener, a team that has a top 10 recruiting class in the nation and a future Hall of Fame coach in Ben Howland," added Jones. "Purdue was one of the best teams in a strong Big Ten conference last year, and of course Northern Kentucky, Evansville, Bowling Green, Loyola and Niagara will be extremely tough as well."

Six of the Spartans' first nine MEAC games will be at home this year, all in the month of January. NSU will thus play just twice at home after Feb. 1, closing out the regular season with five of seven games on the road. Of the program's eight home MEAC games, six will take place on Saturdays this year.

The MEAC schedule begins with a game at Morgan State on Jan. 4, followed by a home weekend against Savannah State on Jan. 7 and South Carolina State on Jan. 9. The Spartans stay in Echols for a contest against North Carolina Central on Jan. 14 before traveling to Delaware State to play the Hornets two days later on Jan. 16.

The Battle of the Bay against Hampton will be held on Jan. 21 at Echols Hall, and again NSU will hit the road for a Monday game, this time at Coppin State on Jan. 23. To close out the month, the Spartans host Bethune-Cookman on Jan. 28 and North Carolina A&T on Jan. 30.

They make the return trip to South Carolina State and Savannah State on Feb. 4 and 6, respectively, to begin the second part of the MEAC season. The following weekend, the Spartans host UMES on Feb. 11 before making another long weekend trip to Florida A&M and Bethune-Cookman on Feb. 18 and 20, respectively. The last NSU home game occurs on Feb. 25 against Howard, and like Savannah State, S.C. State and B-CU, NSU will also play Hampton twice this season. The second of those two matchups against the Pirates will be on Feb. 27 at Hampton.

Following the conclusion of the regular season in the second Battle of the Bay, NSU will compete in the MEAC tournament, scheduled to run from March 6-11 at Scope Arena in Norfolk.

"This year the MEAC schedule will be extremely balanced and of course as difficult as it always is," said Jones. "Our challenging non-conference schedule will really help us grow as a team and get prepared for the rigors of 16 conference games."

NSU was one of four teams in the MEAC to compete in the postseason last year, joining Hampton (NCAA) and S.C. State and Savannah State. The Spartans joined the latter two schools in competing in the CollegeInsider.com Tournament.

The Spartans will welcome eight newcomers to this year's team, including three Division I transfers, and return six players from last year's squad. NSU finished 12-4 and in second place in the MEAC as well as 17-17 overall in 2015-16.

Mike Bello, Asst. SID
COURTESY NORFOLK STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

FAMU Lady Rattlers Sign Seven Recruits For 2016-17

TALLAHASSEE, Florida – Florida A&M Women’s basketball coach Ledawn Gibson announced recently the signing of seven new players for the 2016-2017 season.

The septet of newcomers include Kennedy Burks (5’11 G/F Grand Prairie, TX, Jamella Smith (5’10 G Chapel Hill, NC) , Ny’Asia Davis (6’3 C Starke, FL) , Dy’Manee Royal (6’0 F Savannah ,GA ) , Ecenur Yurdakul (5’7 PG, Eyup, Turkey), Shakeyrra Morrison (6’0 G/F, and DI transfer Taylor Darks (5’11 W Cincinnati, OH) .

"We are rebuilding this year after losing 72% of our scoring in Khadejra Young and Olivia Antilla, but my staff and I have done a remarkable job in selecting the kind of student athletes we need here at Florida A&M University. I am EXCITED to introduce the new additions to the Orange and Green family.”

Ecenur “E” Yurdakul- 5-7 PG/G

Yurdakul is a 5-7 point guard from St. Fair Community College.

The Istanbul, Turkey, native helped the Lady Roadrunners to a 22-8 record and a Region 16 tournament championship in her one season in Sedalia. Yurdakul shot a team-high 82.6 percent from the free-throw line. Yurdakul missed six games in the second half of the season due to injury, but battled her way back to contribute for SFCC.

GIBSON ON YURDAKUL: “Yurdakul enters FAMU with a lot of experience playing basketball on the international level. While in Turkey she had the opportunity to play against some of the best basketball players in the world. She will play the point guard position but also has the ability to stretch the defense by hitting 3pt shots.”

Shakerrya Morrison- 6-0 G/F

She played high school ball at East Wake High School in North Carolina and Junior College at East Central Community

College and was coached by Crandel Porter.



GIBSON ON MORRISON: “Morrison is a high energy aggressive player. She is a great defender and relentless rebounder who will make an immediate impact on this program. She’s been sitting out a year but there is no doubt she will give us all she has to give.”

Jamella Smith- 5-10 G

At Pensacola State College Smith averaged 13 pts, 4 rbs. A tar heel native with many different accolades, the most memorable is when she led her high school team to an undefeated record (32-0 season).



GIBSON ON SMITH: “She possesses a scorer’s mentality with the ability to perform for us in 3 different positions. She’s a rebounding taller guard who doesn’t mind getting gritty with the post players.”

Kennedy Burks- 5-11 SG

Played for Mansfield Lake Ridge High school averaging 12.4 pts, 5 rbs.



GIBSON ON BURKS: “Burks is a long athletic guard that can score in multiple ways and play multiple different positions. Although she is a freshman, she will be expected to develop beyond her years. Which is fine because she has the ability to do so.”

Ny’Asia Davis- 6-3 C

The 6’3 center played for Bradford High School where she averaged 16 pts and 12 rebs.

GIBSON ON DAVIS: “Davis is a very physical post player that can finish around the rim. Davis has great hands, great court vision for a post player and is relentless on the glass. She will add the extra GURTH that we’ve needed over the years.”

Dy’Manee Royal- 6-1 Forward

The Beach senior led the Bulldogs (18-4) with 12.1 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. The 6-foot forward also participates on the Bulldog volleyball and track and field teams.

GIBSON ON ROYAL: “Royal is a player that likes to get up and down the court. She is an aggressive defender and rebounder that has a very high motor. For her size and position, she has unique scoring capabilities. She is a native of Savannah Ga and wishes to show the conference what Ga has to offer.”

Taylor Darks 5’11 W

Darks appeared in a total of 18 games as a freshman. She was a standout at Walnut Hills High School. She is a two-time All-Eastern Cincinnati Conference (ECC) first team selection, ECC player of the year averaging 16.8 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. Ranked the No.88 guard ESPNW and led her team in scoring. Per NCAA transfer rules, Darks will sit out the 2016-2017 season.

GIBSON ON DARKS: “Darks is a high energy caliber player who could've also obtained a track scholarship because of her athletic abilities. She is the type of player that just keeps going and going and going! She is an over achiever, not just on the court but also in the classroom and we are excited to see her mature in this upcoming year.”

In addition to a seven-woman recruiting class, the Rattlers also return eight players from the 2015-2016 squad, headed key veterans Victoria Nguyen and Alicia McCray.

Redshirt guard Florence Outtara, a 5’10 G (Tiassale, Ivory Coast), who sat out last season, is also scheduled to play.

COURTESY FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Most important JSU Tigers: No. 10 Keontre Anderson

JACKSON, Mississippi -- Seven months have passed since Jackson State ended its 2015 season against in-state rival Alcorn State.

The Tigers will kick off the 2016 regular season in less than two months, and will open training camp in about three weeks. Not to mention, SWAC Media Day is this Friday.

In preparation for that, The Clarion-Ledger will count down the 10 most important Tigers in 2016.

This list isn't ranking JSU's best players or most talented, but the importance of the role they'll play this fall.

In 2015: As a sophomore, Anderson was the third defensive end in JSU’s defensive line rotation last season, behind standouts Javancy Jones and Teddrick Terrell.

Anderson started plenty of games, though, and recorded 46 tackles, with 10.5 of those coming for a loss. He finished fourth on the team with four sacks, but led the Tigers with 13 quarterback hurries.

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North Caddo’s Williams makes college choice -- JSU

VIVIAN, Louisiana -- As one of the driving forces behind North Caddo’s run to three consecutive LHSAA Class 2A state basketball titles, Sumer Williams opted to wait a while before choosing a college.

She made that decision recently when she inked with Jackson State in a ceremony at the school.

“I went over there for a visit, watched them practice and I felt like it was a perfect fit for me,” Williams told The Times. “I like the campus, the coaches and what they were about as a program.”



The Times All-City selection and Times Best of Preps honoree averaged 15 points and 8 rebounds this past season for coach Sandra Dennis. Williams was also coached by Rickey Evans and Angela Channell, who was her counselor for four years.

“Sumer is a hard worker both on the court and in the classroom. She is a very determined young lady who has yet to reach her full potential athletically, so she has the chance to offer some depth in multiple positions,” Channell said. With a coaching staff similar to what she's experienced in high school and an opportunity to continue to develop as a player, she will be an asset in any position at Jackson State.”

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Morgan State Bears to face Howard University Bison under the lights in Beltway Showdown

BALTIMORE, Maryland -- It's official!

Morgan State's football program will not only have its first home night game since 2010, but it will also mark the Bears first home matchup against the Howard Bison in seven years.

The Bears will open Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) play when they host Beltway rival on Sept. 24 at Hughes Stadium. The actual kickoff time is set for 7 p.m.

Morgan State defeated the Bison in their last outing during a 21-13 victory at the 18th annual Chicago Football Classic at Soldier Field. Redshirt senior quarterback Moses Skillon threw two touchdowns and MSU's offense compiled 419 yards against the Bison to help post the Bears first win of the 2015 season.

Lamont Brown III was named the Chicago Football Classic MVP. The redshirt junior led the Bears on the ground with 11 carries for 75 yards (6.8 avg).

The Bears lead the series against Howard with an overall record of 40-33-3. Morgan State has won 9 of the last 11 meetings against the Bison since 2005, including a stretch of 7-straight from 2005 to 2011.

The last time the Bears hosted Howard at Hughes Stadium was on October 15, 2009 in an ESPNU televised contest. Morgan State put its defense on display for the country as the Bears knocked off Howard 14-7. Devan James led the Bears on the ground with 103 yards on 22 carries and Carlton Jackson completed 10-of-28 passes for 150 yards, including a pair of touchdown passes.

Morgan State opens its 2016 season with a home-opener against
Holy Cross on Sept. 3 before traveling to take on Marshall on Sept. 10. The Bears 2016 schedule features five home games in Hughes Stadium, including a meeting with MEAC co-champion Bethune-Cookman on Nov. 5 in Baltimore.

Fans can keep up-to-date with all MSU Athletics via twitter at Twitter.com/MorganStBears. You can also become a fan of the Bears on Facebook at Facebook.com/MorganStateBears.



2016 MSU FOOTBALL TICKETS CAN BE YOURS! For ticket information click here.

COURTESY MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

The STORM Experience: PVAMU High School Band Camp 2016

PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas -- The 2016 PVAMU High School Band Camp, this is the 1st High School camp under the administration of Dr. Zachery. Huge thanks to Prairie View A&M University for allowing us to bring it back. Storm members, Sodexo, Kappa Kappa Psi, Tau Beta Sigma and everyone else for the help provided.

The Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm under the direction of Dr. Tim Zachery. Follow The Storm's social media pages for updates and information!

Here is our brand new website, everything from history, directors, auditions, scholarships, contact information is on there, make sure you check it out. http://www.pvmarchingstorm.com,

Former Southern star Jose De Leon rising from 24th-round pick to top prospect

Deceptive fastball, knock-out changeup keeping hitters at bay

OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma -- For a pitcher selected in the 24th round from Southern University in 2013, Jose De Leon finds himself being handled like a high-pick bonus baby by the Los Angeles Dodgers of late.

De Leon had an ankle sprain in March that was considered minor, yet he went through extended spring training and didn’t make his Triple-A debut with Oklahoma City until May 4. He “felt something” in his right, pitching shoulder after a start, was placed on the disabled list on May 16 and wasn’t activated until June 7.

“He was just another guy in the organization who could pitch when he was drafted,” Oklahoma City pitching coach Matt Herges. “He made himself into ‘the guy.’ It made us say, ‘OK, we have something here. Let’s keep him healthy.’ So really, it’s just him getting the innings under his belt to where he can handle a major league work load.”

Stunningly, De Leon has become the No. 2 prospect in the Los Angeles organization. The top prospect — Julio Urias, the No. 1 pitching prospect in baseball — is already with the Dodgers, having been called up May 27.

De Leon said his rise began during his second professional season, in 2015. He’d done well in his first year in the Rookie League and Class A. But the next year, in Advanced A with Rancho Cucamunga, he had a 1.67 ERA with 58 strikeouts in 37.2 innings in going 4-1. Promoted to the Double A Tulsa Drillers, he struck out 105 in 76.2 innings over 16 games with a 3.64 ERA.



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Hanson’s John Guienze the 2 inks with Southern University

NEW IBERIA, Louisiana -- A baseball showcase held May 25 at Southern University proved to be just that for Hanson graduate John Guienze — a chance to showcase his baseball talents and earn an invitation to play for the Jaguars.

“Me and my mom decided to go (to the showcase),” Guienze said this week after signing a letter of intent to play baseball at SU. “I was a pitcher there and I did fairly well. The coach pulled me aside and told me he wanted me to be a part of the team.”

Though he took a little time to make up his mind, Guienze said that after a vacation he took a visit to the north Baton Rouge campus and liked what he saw, including a nice new indoor practice facility that’s under construction.



“I think it’s a real good place for John,” Hanson head baseball coach Ryan Stoute said. “I was excited when things came full circle for him. He has a chance to play at a Division I school. Southern wins the SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference) year in and year out, and they have a chance to be in the playoffs every year.”

Guienze had visited Centenary College in Shreveport the week before the showcase at Southern, and liked the campus there as well. But he felt Southern was a better place for him, he said, not least becaCONuse it’s closer to home — less than two hours away from home as opposed to nearly four hours away.

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Former B-CU Wildcat Ronnie Ash Earns a Trip to the 2016 Olympics

EUGENE, Oregon -- A year ago, Ronnie Ash qualified on the Hayward Field track for the IAAF World Championships, then was disqualified in his first race in Beijing on a controversial ruling. When he finished running the 110-meter hurdle final Saturday afternoon in the U.S. Olympic Trials, he called it “a redemption race.” What he can truly call it is a trip to the Olympics.

After posting the best time in the qualifying and semifinal round of the hurdles, Ash finished second with a 13.21 in the final and promptly added Olympic qualifier to his growing résumé. In the photo finish of the race, Ash got second by .001 seconds.

A former OU All-American, Ash earned the honors in the indoor 60 hurdles and outdoor 110 hurdles in 2010, his only year as a Sooner. He owns the school records in the 60 hurdles (7.55) and the 110 hurdles (13.19) and won Big 12 titles in both of those events. Ash transferred to OU from Bethune Cookman.

In addition to his trip to the IAAF World in Beijing last August, Ash has a bronze and a gold medal from the NACAC Under-23 Championships and a silver medal from the IAAF Continental Cup.

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Stillman will retain baseball and softball

TUSCALOOSA, Alabama -- After what was thought to be the final seasons for the Stillman College baseball and softball programs, Stillman athletic director Donte Jackson has announced that the school will retain both programs and continue play next season.

“We looked at softball and baseball as two of the traditional sports that have always been here at Stillman College, and two of the traditional sports that we’ve had a lot of success with,” Jackson said. “So in our efforts to boost enrollment, it was a good to retain softball and baseball.”

In December, Stillman announced the move from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in NCAA division II to the Gulf South Athletic Conference in the NAIA. Stillman made the move to drop all of its athletic programs except men’s and women’s basketball following the 2015-2016 school year. With the new addition of junior varsity teams for both the softball and baseball teams, Stillman will have the financial capabilities to keep both varsity teams.

Rumblings of both the baseball and softball programs being retained began in the late spring, especially after both finished well in the SIAC conference with limited rosters. The softball team finished 14-10 in the conference, while the baseball team finished with 16-5 conference record and made it to the conference championship game.

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Jackson 'ecstatic' with new opportunity at Kentucky State

BLUEFIELD, West Virginia — It has been a productive few weeks for Jamaal Jackson. It started with the city of Cleveland finally winning a championship and followed with him being offered his dream job.

It promises to get even better in the near future.

“The last four to six weeks have been great. I am from Ohio and my father is in Cleveland so me and him went to Game 6 of the Cavs series (with the Golden State Warriors) together where they won,” Jackson said. “Then on Sunday on Father’s Day we spent the day together and watched them win the NBA championship.

“Then our basketball camp (at Bluefield State) was really successful. We had a lot of kids there that did a great job and then this happened and then my anniversary is around the corner and my birthday is around the corner so I am on Cloud 9.

For good reason. Jackson has been hired as the new men’s basketball coach at Kentucky State, which is where he graduated from in 2004 and later continued on as an assistant coach through 2008.

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New book tells story of HBCU legends of the American Football League

University of Mississippi professor and author Charles K. Ross earned his bachelor’s degree from Stillman College, an historically black college in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, before completing his graduate studies at Ohio State.

KANSAS CITY, Missouri -- Buck Buchanan, a mountain of a man, was at the top of his class in 1963.

The star defensive tackle from Grambling State was selected No. 1 overall in the American Football League draft that year by the Kansas City Chiefs. He became the first black player from any college — HBCU or predominantly white — to accomplish that feat.

Buchanan, 6-foot-7, 245 pounds at the time, captured the eye of progressive Chiefs owner Lamar Hunt and head coach Hank Stram during a time when selecting players from HBCUs that high in a draft was a foreign concept.

But this was the fledgling AFL — the new kid with new ideas on the new block that went toe-to-toe with the more traditional and staid NFL. The year 1963 was a bellwether time in U.S. history.

President John F. Kennedy was assassinated that year in Dallas. A volatile climate of national racial issues was on the frontburner — from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic March on Washington to the assassination of highly respected NAACP leader Medgar Evers to the four black girls killed in the horrific church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama. Civil rights marches, especially in the South, were as common as hit records from Motown.

AUDIO PODCAST INTERVIEW OF CHARKES K. ROSS

BUY BOOK AT AMAZON.COM -- $19.95 PAPERBACK

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Local stars Manning, Eave inducted into GSU Hall of Fame

GRAMBLING, Louisiana — Billy Manning stopped for a brief moment from shaking hands and looked around a room of more than 200 people.

The West Monroe native couldn't help but notice the legendary ensemble and cast of characters Saturday at Grambling's assembly center that had strong enough credentials to start their own NFL, MLB or NBA team.

The group, eloquently known as the Grambling Legends, looked on as Manning and 10 others were inducted as part of the 2016 Grambling Hall of Fame class.



"Got some legends in this room, some great legends — Willis Reed, Shack Harris, Doug Williams. I'm just happy to be a part of it," said Manning, who played football and later coached football at Grambling. "I ain't getting no younger so coming back is a good time."

Manning was one of two local stars honored at the eighth annual event on Grambling's campus, joining Bastrop's Gary Eave, who excelled for Grambling's baseball team in the 1980s.

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Virginia State Trojans Basketball Signs Granberry and Corum

ETTRICK, Virginia -- After tallying several accolades during the 2015-16 season, to include the 2016 CIAA Men's Basketball Championship Title, Head Coach Lonnie Blow, Jr. has begun the process of adding A1 talent to his team.

A transfer from Neosho Country Community College in Chanute, KS, Richard Granberry is a 6-8 forward from Chester, PA. Last season, Granberry was a key player for his team in regular and post season play, earning him a spot on the All-KJCCC (Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference) and All-Region 1st Team. Along with averaging 15.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game, Granberry helped make history for the Neosho Country Panthers by advancing to the NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association) National Tournament.

"I'm looking forward to seeing how well Granberry's talent jells with the returners," said Coach Blow. "He is accustomed to being a team player, which helps in not only securing baskets but executing plays."

Coach Blow has also signed true freshman Andrew Corum, a Middleburg, VA native from Middleburg Academy. Last season, the 6-6 forward averaged 12 points and 5.4 rebounds per game. Tallying several player of the game honors and the 2014-15 VISAA (Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association) D-III Player of the Year Award, Corum will help solidify the Trojans 2016-17 roster. "Corum has fresh talent that will assist us in playing great basketball this season," said Coach Blow. "The overall objective is to focus on one game at a time and work smart on the court. Corum will surely help the Trojans do just that!"



Both student-athletes will also bring academic and community service enrichment to men's basketball and VSU Athletics as the Trojans continue to build academic and athletic champions.

"These two gentlemen are well rounded and will be a great addition to the team and the department," said Coach Blow. "After losing three seniors from last seasonCs championship team, Granberry and Corum will add depth to our 2016-17 roster."

For more information on VSU Trojans men's basketball, follow Trojans Athletics on Twitter @VSUsports, or call 804-524-5030.

COURTESY VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

From Player to Hall of Famer: ‘Cy’ McClairen retires after 55 years of service to Bethune-Cookman University Athletics

DAYTONA BEACH, Florida -- When it comes to history, legacy and tradition at Bethune-Cookman University, only the school’s founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, ranks higher than 85-year-old Jack “Cy’’ McClairen.

The longtime Wildcat retired on June 30 after 55 years of service with the institution serving in various capacities.

A small get together was held for him at B-CU’s Center for Civic Engagement last week with both current and former staff, faculty and alumni in attendance.

“It’s just time. I figured it’s time that I take my butt home,” quipped McClairen.

During his time at Bethune-Cookman, he touched many lives.

“I came back to coach football but ended up coaching basketball and being athletic director. I met regular students. I got in contact with not just athletes but students. I decided to use this to influence all students to get an education. I talked with them and let them know the position that they are in, they can do something for their lives,” McClairen told the Daytona Times last week about his long tenure at Bethune-Cookman.



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Bluefield State Coach Jackson Accepts Job at Kentucky State

Head Men's Basketball Coach Jamaal Jackson 

BLUEFIELD, West Virginia -- The Big Blues Athletic Department has announced that Head Men's Basketball Coach Jamaal Jackson has left Bluefield State College to become the Head Coach at Kentucky State University. Kentucky State is a Division II institution located in Frankfurt, KY and plays out of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC).

Coach Jackson moves on from Bluefield State after 5 seasons of dedicated service. While here he coached the team to their highest win total during the 2014-2015 since 1995-1996. He also coached the 2015-2016 ECAC Rookie of the Year while at Bluefield State. The Department spokesperson says, "While we are saddened to see Coach Jackson leave, it is always great to see someone get the opportunity to coach at their Alma Mater. We wish him all the best at Kentucky State."

COURTESY BLUEFIELD STATE COLLEGE ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS

Dr. Shelby Chipman, Director of Bands Poised to Lead FAMU Music to New Era of Perfectionism

WATCH ABOVE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER BAND CAMP VIDEOS IN 1080p HD

Auburn adds in-state FCS opponent Alabama State to 2021 schedule

AUBURN, Alabama -- Auburn's 2021 schedule took another step toward completion on Friday.

The Tigers scheduled a nonconference game with Alabama State for the 2021 season, ASU announced on its official site on Friday afternoon. The Hornets will face the Tigers on Nov. 20, 2021.

The two in-state schools have never met on the football field but now have two future games scheduled. The Hornets will visit Jordan-Hare Stadium for the first time during the 2018 season when the two teams square off on Nov. 17 that year.



The 2021 meeting now gives Auburn two nonconference games scheduled for that season. The Tigers will also play against California in Berkley, Calif., in 2021 to complete a scheduled home-and-home series with the Bears.

With the scheduled game against the Hornets that season, Auburn has room for two more non-SEC games that year.

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New look on The Bluff: Defensive coordinator Trei Oliver handles one of many reworked roles for the Southern Jaguars

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana -- First-year Southern defensive coordinator Trei Oliver is in the unusual position of working for the man he replaced.

Jaguars head coach Dawson Odums decided to relinquish defensive coordinator duties after last season, then hired Oliver away from North Carolina A&T to take over.

When asked recently about that unusual dynamic, Oliver quipped, “The one thing you’re not going to do is talk about the last guy that was in your position.”

Actually, the new defensive coordinator is a lot like the old defensive coordinator. Odums and Oliver were teammates at North Carolina Central, and they were assistant coaches together at their alma mater under current North Carolina A&T defensive coordinator Sam Washington.

“We’re not reinventing the wheel,” Odums said. “He’s got a mindset like mine in that he’s going to put an emphasis on stopping the run, be simple and have guys flying around to the football.”

The one difference is that Odums’ background is up front, having played defensive end, nose guard and linebacker, while Oliver’s is on the back end, having been a safety and a standout punter.

“He’s a genius when it comes to the fronts; I’m more of a secondary guy,” Oliver said. “We’re not going to change a whole lot of what they did last year up front per se, but we’re going to do a lot more on the back end as far as coverages.”



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North Carolina A&T Men's Basketball Brings In 10 Newcomers

GREENSBORO, North Carolina -- The look of the North Carolina A&T men’s basketball team will be drastically different than it was in 2015-16. Entering his first full season as the Aggies head coach, Jay Joyner announced the arrival of 10 new players on Thursday. 

The Aggies have eight returning players inSam Hunt (6-foot-2, 175-pound guard, Greensboro, N.C.), Nick Reese (6-7, 210, forward, Los Angeles), Jamin Lackey (6-8, 200, F, Los Angeles), James Whitaker (6-5, 180, G, Portsmouth, Va.), Austin Williams (6-1, 175, G, Queens, N.Y.), Amari Hamilton (6-1, 165, G, Durham, N.C.), Mike Owona (6-9, 250, center, Bel Air, Md.) and Martin Jones (6-1, 171, G, Cincinnati, Ohio).

Three of the Aggies signees will sit out next season, giving the Aggies a roster of 15 players.

The Aggies focused on getting immediate experience for the 2016-17 season. Aaron Scales (6-9, 233, C, American Basketball Institute, High Point, N.C.), a graduate transfer out of Cleveland State, will play one season for the Aggies.

Joyner pulled heavily from the junior college ranks as well with signing of Eliel Gonzalez (6-2, 170, guard, Florida Air HS, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Cayey, Puerto Rico), Donte Watson(6-6, 185, F/G, Riverdale HS, Copiah Lincoln CC, New Orleans) and Davaris McGowens (6-6, 230, F, Gary Military Academy, Gulf Coast State College, Taylors, S.C.). The three high school signees are Raymon Pratt (6-3, 197, G, Ben L. Smith HS, Greensboro, N.C.), Josh Mullins (6-2, 180, G, Nash Central HS, Nashville, N.C.) and Dalen Datson (5-11, 160, G, Moravian Prep, Matthews, N.C.).

Aaren Edmead (5-10, 165, G, Deer Park HS, Deer Park, N.Y.) and Japhet Kadji (6-7, 205, F, Gulliver Prep, Douala, Cameroon), both transfers from Wagner, and Olufemi Olujobi (6-8, 233, F, Brentwood HS, Long Island, N.Y.), a transfer from Oakland (Mich.), will all sit out next season. Each player has two years of eligibility remaining. Two players the Aggies signed in December, Antanee Pickard (6-4, 190, Lancaster, Pa.) and Markques Houston (6-5, 195, Houston, Texas), have de-committed.

“Our recruiting class gives a chance to compete and win. In this business that is all you can ask for,” said Joyner. “In the short period of time I had to recruit, I think we have players who fit into the way we want to play this year. We are a little more versatile offensively. We have some enforcers down low and we were able to bring in scoring and experience. But again, we have to stake our reputation on playing defense. If we do that, we have a chance.”

Graduate Transfer Scales is a local product out of High Point. Scales played 72 games at Cleveland State before graduating with a communications degree. Joyner called Scales a back-to-the basket player who will be difficult to handle in the post. “We expect him to play physical and tough,” said Joyner. “We’ve needed toughness in the paint around here, and I think he is going to bring it to us.”

Junior College Signees Gonzalez will compete for the starting point guard position in 2016-17. He started his collegiate career at Division I Hofstra before transferring to Mississippi Gulf Coast CC. During the 2014-15 season at Hofstra, he played in 19 games and averaged 4.1 minutes. Last season for the Bulldogs, he posted 7.9 points, 2.5 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. He knocked down 27 of 64 3-pointers (.422). Joyner says he is a good passer who sees the floor well and makes good decision.

The Aggies are looking for Watson, a left-hander, to provide some scoring from the wing. Watson played two seasons at the junior college level where he averaged 15.3 points per game as a sophomore. He also averaged 4.6 rebounds and shot 41 percent from the field and 70 percent from the line. As a freshman he averaged 11.3 points and 6.0 rebounds on 45 percent shooting. Joyner says Watson is good at getting to the basket, but he can also knock down perimeter shots with consistency.

McGowens will add some physicality to the Aggies lineup. He shot 53 percent from the floor as a freshman at Gulf Coast State College while averaging 9.6 points and 6.4 rebounds in 29 games played. As a sophomore, he was a 59 percent shooter from the floor and averaged 10.1 points and 7.6 rebounds in 28 games played. Joyner says he is a player the Aggies can give the ball to in the post and feel confident in coming away with points. “I don’t think we have to live and die by jump shots every night with him on the floor,” Joyner added.

Prep Signees
Pratt will join junior Sam Hunt as a Greensboro native on the Aggies roster. Pratt was a do-it all player at Smith where he averaged 21.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game as a senior. He was also a 1,000-point scorer for the Golden Eagles. He scored 18 points to lead the Golden Eagles to the Metro 4-A conference championship. Joyner says Pratt is a perfect defensive fit for the Aggies because he has a build that will allow him to guard point guards, power forwards and wings.

“He is going to bring a lot of intensity from day one,” said Joyner. “You need guys out there with high motors defensively, and he definitely has a high motor.”

 Before his career is over Mullins could be considered a steal for the Aggies at the point guard position. Joyner said he was surprised someone with his upside was not signed. Mullins is another guard who could be good for the Aggies defensively with his long arms and athleticism. He averaged 24.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 2.0 steals per game as a senior at Nash Central. He also shot 44 percent from 3-point range.

Dotson gives the Aggies a speedy guard who loves to attack the basket. He is also a good passer. He attended Providence High School before the 2015-16 when he played for Moravian Prep in Lenoir, N.C. Dotson averaged 10.0 points and 6.0 assists at Moravian Prep but was hampered by a hand injury. As a senior at Providence, he averaged 15.4 points and 3.3 assists. Joyner called him an underrated player for his skill set. “I think he is going to come in motivated because he feels like he was overlooked,” said Joyner.

Division I transfers who will sit out the 2016-17 season

In two seasons at Wagner, Edmead scored 285 points and dished out 83 assists in 62 games played. Edmead started five times in over his first two seasons including both of the Seahawks’ NIT games last season as they advanced to the second round. He posted a career-high 16 points on 4-for-6 shooting from 3-point range against St. Brooklyn Francis on Jan. 28, 2016. He scored in double figures six times at Wagner.

Newsday and LongIslandBasketball.Com named him Long Island Player of the Year when he was a prep star at Deer Park. “He is not a flashy guy, but he gets the job done. He runs the show extremely well, and he has a knack for hitting big shots,” Joyner said.

Kadji will join Edmead at N.C. A&T as a transfer from Wagner. Kadji played 51 games in a Wagner uniform with 14 starts. He scored 196 points and grabbed 120 rebounds during his time as a Seahawk. Kadji also knocked down 29 3-pointers. As a freshman he posted 10 points and nine rebounds at Fairleigh Dickinson. He had a career-best 14 points at St. John’s during the 2015-16 season.  Joyner described as pick-and-pop shooter who can also put the ball on the floor to score.

Olujobi played 56 games with nine starts during his time at Oakland. He posted 76 points and 85 rebounds. He had a career-high nine rebounds last season at Milwaukee. As a high school standout at Brentwood he helped his team win the Long Island championship. He was named All-Long Island and had a pair of triple doubles as a senior. Joyner says Olujobi will be a big active body in the post that will cause opponents problems offensively and defensively. 

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Central State returning to Circle City Classic

XENIA, Ohio -- Central State University and Kentucky State University will continue their longstanding rivalry at the 33rd Circle City Classic this September. This year’s game will take place at 3 p.m. on Sept. 24 in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.

“It is truly an honor to be playing in one of the premier HBCU football classics. This will be our third year playing on this stage and we can’t wait for another opportunity to showcase our talent,” CSU head coach Cedric Pearl said. “We continue to show our appreciation to the Indiana Black Expo and the city of Indianapolis for allowing Central State to continue to be a part of this great event.”

The game will be the third straight year the Circle City Classic has played host to the CSU-KSU rivalry, which dates back to 1947. CSU currently owns a 35-20-1 advantage in the all-time series with the only tie coming in 1957. KSU has found recent success in the series, including last year’s 21-14 win. CSU senior defensive back Clim Robbins talked about the team’s mindset about the 2016 rematch.

“KSU edged us last season on the final drive of the game and we are determined to come back to Lucas Oil Stadium and deliver our best performance and hopefully we can come out on top.” Robbins said. “It is truly a blessing to be a part of this game and our team is working extremely hard this offseason to get better and build on last season’s 5-5 record. We all believe that the harder we work, the harder it is to lose.”

With CSU joining the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in 2013, the game has also held significant implications in the SIAC West Division standings. SIAC Commissioner Greg Moore expressed the conference’s excitement about two of its teams playing on a great stage.



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VUU's Kiana Johnson to Play Pro Ball in Finland

DUBLIN, Ohio -- The reigning NCAA Div. II Player of the Year, Kiana Johnson, will travel to Forssa, Finland later this summer to play professionally for the Forssan Alku club of the top Finnish league for women. Forssan Alku finished fourth in the league last season and has a rich history, winning nine league titles in a row in the 1990s.

Kiana's agent, Matthew C. Krejci, Esq., of MK Sports and Entertainment LLC (Dublin, OH) said, "The Finnish league is good competition with 25 or more American players spread around the 9 teams in any given year. It will be a good test for Kiana, but I believe she will shine on the court and put up big numbers as she did last year at Virginia Union." Kiana led all of NCAA women's basketball last season in scoring average at 29.2 points/game. She was also second in NCAA Div. II in total assists (268) and shot 40% from 3-point range. Kiana headlined the WBCA All America First Team, was CIAA Player of the Year, and was named the VaSID Player of the Year and the Virginia Player of the Year by the Richmond Times-Dispatch. She led the Virginia Union Panthers to a 28-3 record and an Elite 8 appearance in the NCAA Div. II Tournament.

Jari Marjamaki, coach of Forssan Alku said, "We are happy to have signed Kiana as our first American player this season and look forward to building the team around such a talented player."

Kiana will graduate from Virginia Union later this year with a degree in psychology. She played her first three years at Michigan State University, starting in 58 games. Kiana is a product of Whitney Young High School, Chicago, Illinois.



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Benedict Lady Tigers Sign Latta Star Ta'Keria Legette

COLUMBIA, South Carolina – Benedict College head women's basketball coach James Rice has announced the addition of guard Ta'Keria Legette from Latta, S.C. (Latta High School).

Legette, a 5-foot-9 guard, signed a National Letter of Intent to play for the Lady Tigers. She will enroll at Benedict in the fall as a freshman and will have four years of eligibility.

"Ta'Keria committing to our Tiger family has us overwhelmed with excitement," Rice said. "She is a versatile guard who has the ability to play and defend multiple positions on the floor. She has the necessary offensive skills to make an immediate impact on any college level. She has great court vision and loves to pass but her ability to get to the basket and accuracy shooting the long ball will set her apart."

During her high school career, Legette led Latta to the 2014 Class A State Championship, a runner-up finish in 2015, and into the Lower State semi-finals in 2016 under coach Curtis Jackson. She averaged 23.1 points, 11.1 rebounds and 8.6 assists during her senior year.

"Numbers don't lie and she has been known to fill up the stat sheet," Rice said. "We are so happy about her officially becoming a part of our Tiger family. What's satisfying is that we were able to sign a big-time player from the state of South Carolina. We are definitely heading in the right direction towards competing for a national championship with the addition of Ta'Keria to the program."

Benedict finished 29-3 overall last season, won the SIAC championship for the second time in three years, and advanced to the NCAA DII South Region championship game. Benedict will open the 2016-17 season at home against USC-Aiken on Nov. 16.



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Claflin University Softball Earn Third Straight National Statistical Award

ORANGEBURG, South Carolina — For the second straight season, the Claflin University softball team has earned the national award for stolen bases per game. This is the third straight season that the Lady Panthers have earned a national statistical title. During the 2014 season, Claflin was crowned softball statistical champions in runs per game and doubles per game.

The national awards were released by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) on Friday (July 8).

Claflin finished the 2016 season averaging 3.67 stolen bases per game. The Lady Panthers earned its second straight Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Eastern Division Title and finished third overall in the conference this past season.

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