Historical black colleges have been on the rise of late. With Deion “PrimeTime” Sanders choosing to coach Jackson State. His arrival brought tons of exposure to the South West Athletic Conference this spring as certain football games were presented on ESPN 2. Another major name has decided to attend an HBCU, Shaqir O’Neal has committed to Texas Southern University, and the internet buzzing about it.
For those of you who may not know, the Texas Southern University basketball team has made many appearances to the NCAA tournament, including last season. Led by head coach Johnny Jones, who has a lot of experience as a coach, which accounts for the team's success in recent years. There is no doubt that Coach Jones is going to put the 6'6 shooting guard in the right place to succeed and showcase his skills.
Shaqir's decision is huge because it shows African-American athletes that there is another way to go to the NBA besides going to predominantly white institutions (PWIs). This commitment can ultimately change the landscape of HBCU sports. Time and time again we have seen five-star, four-star, and even three-star recruits turn a blind eye to HBCUs, but the tide is changing and it is amazing to see. Having graduated from HBCU and a former student at Texas Southern University, I can't wait to see Shaqir O'Neal do incredible things and prove everyone wrong.
"You can expect a lot of buckets," Shaqir said in the interview with Overtime.
That being said get your popcorn ready and enjoy the show this upcoming college basketball season.
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