Howard and Tennessee State Set to Clash in 2027 NBA HBCU Classic in Phoenix

The National Basketball Association announced on Tuesday that Howard University and Tennessee State University will compete in the 2027 NBA HBCU Classic presented by AT&T, according to a report by HBCU Sports. The matchup is scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 20, 2027, at Hardwood Central inside Jam Session at the Phoenix Convention Center as part of NBA All-Star 2027 in Phoenix. The contest will air nationally across ESPN and NBA TV.

Both HBCU programs enter the high-profile game following seasons that included appearances in the 2026 NCAA Tournament. The game represents a debut appearance in the NBA HBCU Classic for Tennessee State, while Howard will return to the event for a second time after winning the inaugural classic in 2022.

As part of the showcase event, the NBA and AT&T will each contribute $50,000 to Howard and Tennessee State, providing $100,000 in total financial support to each university. According to reporting from HBCU Sports, the league has directed more than $5.8 million to HBCU institutions, organizational partners, and scholarships since expanding its formal commitment to historically Black colleges and universities in 2021.

NBA Deputy Commissioner and Chief Operating Officer Mark Tatum highlighted the legacy of both programs when discussing the event. "Howard University and Tennessee State University have longstanding connections to the NBA and basketball traditions that span generations," Tatum said in a statement. He added that the 2027 event will celebrate both schools' contributions to the sport while offering student-athletes a global platform to highlight their skills and share their institutional histories with basketball fans worldwide.

Howard head coach Kenny Blakeney emphasized that returning to NBA All-Star Weekend offers student-athletes valuable engagement beyond the court. According to HBCU Sports, Blakeney noted that the opportunity enables players to connect with one of the largest stages in sports and entertainment, build meaningful relationships, and explore professional opportunities while representing their university, alumni, and community.

Tennessee State head coach Nolan Smith expressed enthusiasm for the national exposure awaiting his team. "I am very excited for my players first and foremost," Smith said. "They have an opportunity to play on a big stage, one set up by the NBA, and it will be a special moment for them all."

The NBA HBCU Classic initiative continues to focus on raising national visibility for HBCU athletic programs while extending academic, economic, and career advancement pathways for participating student-athletes.