LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The action on the field was only part of the story Saturday as Jackson State and Grambling State brought the rich tradition and contagious energy of HBCU football to Allegiant Stadium.
WATCH | The inaugural HBCU Classic in Las Vegas
The inaugural HBCU Classic delivered what fans had hoped for — history, community, and a whole lot of pride. While the football matchup drew thousands to the stands, it was the atmosphere — the bands, the fans, and the sense of family — that made the event unforgettable.
“They’re very passionate,” said Victoria Williams, a Jackson State supporter. “It’s important for the Black community for us to inspire each other, support each other, and see the amazing things we can do with that kind of love and energy.”
That love was on full display throughout the day — in the drumlines, the halftime show, and the sea of blue and gold that stretched across the stadium.
For Tracie Clemons, a Las Vegas local, the Classic carried a deeper meaning.
“There’s a lot of culture in historic West Vegas,” Clemons said. “Our ancestors are all over this place, so to celebrate the HBCU Classic here — it’s powerful.”
The game itself was a thriller. Jackson State struck first but lost starting quarterback JaCobian Morgan early to injury. Grambling State answered with a long touchdown and a late field goal before halftime to make it 10–9. After the break, C’Zavian Teasett led Grambling to a two-score lead before suffering a serious injury in the fourth quarter that halted play as both teams knelt in support.
True freshman Jared Lockhart helped Jackson State rally back with a 62-yard touchdown to Nate Rembert and a 1-yard keeper to take a brief lead. But with 21 seconds left, Josh McCormick’s 44-yard field goal lifted Grambling State to a 26–24 win.
“HBCUs are our safe place,” said Latasha Stabler, who traveled in for the game. “You learn, you grow, you build an extended family. Even with rivalry, there’s still love for everybody.”
That family feel — the shared joy and unity — was what fans said defined the night more than any final score.
“There’s a culture, there’s an atmosphere, there’s just a sense of community and pride that HBCUs have,” said Ben Jones. “It’s unique from any other institution.”
As the final notes from the marching bands echoed through Allegiant Stadium, one thing was clear — Las Vegas may have hosted the game, but the heart of HBCU football stole the show.
-
Military members take on Raiders Combine at USAA Salute to Service event
Service members from Creech and Nellis Air Force Base joined Raiders players for an NFL-style Combine ahead of Thanksgiving, celebrating athleticism, gratitude and community connection.
Cooley scores 4 straight goals in Mammoth's 5-1 win over Golden Knights
The teams also played Thursday night at Delta Center, with Vegas winning 4-1. Vegas then fell 4-3 in overtime at Anaheim on Saturday night.
Greg Olson named Raiders' interim offensive coordinator after Chip Kelly firing
Greg Olson replaces Chip Kelly after he was fired Sunday night. He was the offensive coordinator for the then-Oakland Raiders in 2013-14 and became the team's OC again in 2018.
Utah unveils name and logo for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Games
The return of the Olympics to Utah has a new name and new logo as the Games hit the momentous 3,000 day mark before the Beehive State once again welcomes the world.
