This Saturday, the vibrant spirit of Historically Black Colleges and Universities will be alive at Manhattan University as they host the 4th Annual Harlem Renaissance Classic. The event, set to take place at Draddy Gymnasium in Riverdale, promises an exciting day filled with basketball, educational opportunities, and cultural celebrations for alumni and future HBCU graduates residing in the New York tri-state area.
The classic will feature thrilling matchups between the men’s basketball teams of Division II Clark Atlanta University and Lincoln University. The day kicks off at 1 p.m. when Clark Atlanta takes on Philadelphia’s Holy Family University, followed by Lincoln University’s game against Molloy University from Rockville Centre, Long Island, at 3 p.m. Fans can arrive early, as doors to Draddy Gymnasium will open at noon.
While the games form the centerpiece of this much-anticipated event, attendees can expect a robust lineup of activities organized by Manhattan University’s Black Student Union. The event will offer a variety of educational, health, musical, and social engagements designed to enrich the experience for all participants. This includes college recruitment sessions, discussions on scholarship opportunities, tutoring services, and representatives from Divine Nine Greek organizations. Additionally, attendees can participate in interactive games, receive mental health counseling, and enjoy performances by cheerleaders and local bands.
The Harlem Renaissance Classic is spearheaded by the non-profit organization Bridging Structural Holes, Inc., which aims to bridge gaps within communities and foster inclusion and diversity. The organization’s mission reflects its vision to “shrink the racial divide and create a platform that promotes new levels of inclusion, diversity, equity and acceptance in spaces previously unattainable for marginalized, underserved groups.”
This event not only highlights the competitive spirit of HBCU athletics but also serves as a critical platform for community engagement, empowerment, and celebration of the rich cultural heritage.