On January 18, 2025, the Nike Track & Field Center at The Armory in New York City came alive with the energy and talent of HBCU athletes. The HBCU Showcase, sponsored by KPMG, brought together some of the best track and field competitors from Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the nation.
The event was a testament to the strength and skill of HBCU athletics, offering a platform for these talented athletes to shine on a big stage. From sprints to jumps, throws to relays, the showcase covered a wide range of track and field events, each one showcasing the dedication and hard work of the participants.
One of the standout teams of the day was Bowie State University. Their men’s indoor track and field team put on an impressive performance, securing multiple top 10 finishes across various events. Jaeden Warner made waves with a first-place finish in the men’s shot put, launching a throw of 15.96 meters. Not to be outdone, Lorenzo Pelham blazed through the 60m Hurdles final, claiming second place with a time of 7.98 seconds.
But Bowie State wasn’t the only team making noise. The Prairie View A&M Panthers also left their mark on the competition, securing impressive placements throughout the day. Meanwhile, the Virginia Union University women’s track and field team used this showcase as their first indoor meet of the season, setting the tone for what promises to be an exciting year ahead.
The HBCU Showcase wasn’t just about individual performances, though. The spirit of teamwork was on full display in events like the 4×4 relay, where Bowie State’s team secured a respectable ninth-place finish with a time of 3:25.80.For those unable to attend in person, live streaming options brought the excitement of the showcase to screens around the world. This digital access helped spread the word about the incredible talent coming out of HBCUs and gave supporters everywhere a chance to cheer on their favorite athletes and teams.
Events like the HBCU Showcase play a crucial role in highlighting the often-overlooked talent pool at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. They provide invaluable exposure for athletes who might otherwise fly under the radar of larger scouting networks and media outlets.
As the dust settled on another successful HBCU Showcase, it was clear that the future of track and field is bright, diverse, and brimming with potential. The athletes who competed in New York didn’t just represent their schools; they represented the power of determination, the importance of opportunity, and the bright future of HBCU athletics.
With each passing year, the HBCU Showcase continues to grow in prestige and importance. It stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity, and when the spotlight shines on deserving athletes from Historically Black Colleges and Universities.