Florida A&M’s Historic Run in the SWAC Baseball Championship and the Classic Rivalry Renewed in Football
Florida A&M University’s baseball team has made significant strides in the SWAC, advancing to the championship game after defeating Grambling State 9–1 in the semifinals. This victory not only avenged an earlier loss but set the stage for a title matchup against Bethune-Cookman. In football, the Rattlers are preparing for the 2025 Invesco QQQ Orange Blossom Classic, a historic rivalry game against Howard University that promises to highlight HBCU excellence and tradition.
The baseball team’s journey to the SWAC Championship was marked by impressive performances, including a convincing win over Grambling. In the semifinal, Florida A&M’s Justen Crews drove in four runs, while Jay Campbell contributed significantly with a double and three RBIs. The Rattlers’ pitching and fielding were instrumental in limiting Grambling to just one run through eight innings, culminating in a 9–1 victory. This win showcased the team’s resilience and determination, setting them up for a title clash with Bethune-Cookman, a game that would ultimately end in a 11–9 loss for FAMU despite holding a late lead.
Historically, Florida A&M has been a powerhouse in HBCU sports, with its athletic programs reflecting the institution’s rich cultural heritage and academic excellence. The SWAC, a conference that embodies the spirit of historically black colleges and universities, provides a platform for these institutions to compete at the highest level while maintaining their unique cultural identity.
In the realm of football, the upcoming Orange Blossom Classic is a testament to the enduring legacy of HBCU sports. The classic rivalry between Howard University and Florida A&M University is steeped in tradition and significance, reflecting the broader cultural and historical context of HBCUs. This game is not just about athletic competition; it is a celebration of the institutions’ contributions to American sports and civil rights history. The Orange Blossom Classic, first held in 1933, has brought together some of the most iconic HBCU programs, fostering a sense of community and pride among alumni and fans.
The 2025 Orange Blossom Classic will be a highly anticipated event, as it rekindles a storied rivalry between two legendary HBCU football programs. The game is a rematch of their 2023 Celebration Bowl showdown, which FAMU won 30–26. “This year’s matchup is not only a rematch of their 2023 Celebration Bowl showdown, but it also takes us back to the very beginning,” noted Kendra Bulluck-Major, Executive Director of the Orange Blossom Classic. The matchup will be televised nationally, providing a platform for both schools to showcase their excellence in football and celebrate the rich traditions of HBCU sports.
The impact of current trends in college athletics, such as the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policy and the transfer portal, is being felt across HBCU sports. These changes are presenting new opportunities and challenges for HBCU programs, which often operate with limited resources compared to FBS and FCS counterparts. However, these challenges also underscore the resilience and resourcefulness of HBCU athletic departments, which continue to find innovative ways to attract talent and compete at the highest levels.
Looking ahead, Florida A&M’s appearance in the SWAC Championship and its upcoming football matchup in the Orange Blossom Classic highlight the program’s potential for growth and success. As HBCU sports continue to evolve, they remain a vital part of American sports culture, providing a unique blend of athletic competition and cultural significance. The future of HBCU athletics is promising, with these institutions poised to continue their legacy of excellence both on and off the field. The Orange Blossom Classic and other HBCU classics serve as a reminder of the enduring power of these programs to inspire and unite communities across the nation.