The Chris Paul CP3 HBCU Classic returns to Atlanta’s Gateway Arena, shining a national spotlight on Historically Black Colleges and Universities and their basketball programs. This year’s showcase features four proud institutions: CIAA representatives Fayetteville State and Lincoln (Pa.), alongside SIAC contenders Morehouse and Clark Atlanta.
The event, curated by NBA All-Star Chris Paul, is more than just basketball—it’s a celebration of culture, competition, and community. With ESPN+ broadcasting the games, fans nationwide will witness the intensity of CIAA vs. SIAC matchups, where tradition meets opportunity on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
Game 1: “Broncos vs Maroon Tigers – A Battle in the ATL”
Matchup: Fayetteville State vs Morehouse
Date & Time: December 18, 2025 | 12:30 PM
Location: Gateway Arena, Atlanta, GA
Event: Chris Paul CP3 HBCU Classic
Fayetteville State (5–5)
Fayetteville State opens its CP3 Classic slate against Morehouse, a clash of styles that pits the Broncos’ high-octane offense against the Maroon Tigers’ disciplined efficiency. Adding intrigue is the return of CIAA All-Conference guard Terrell Williams, who missed the first part of the season due to injury but erupted for 24 points in his last game against Bluefield State. His presence gives the Broncos another proven scorer and leader just in time for this showcase.
Players to Watch
- Larry Howell (F) – 20.2 PPG, 8.5 RPG, elite free-throw shooter (.882) – Howell is the Broncos’ go-to scorer, averaging over 20 points per game while punishing defenses with his relentless rebounding and elite free-throw accuracy.
- Ezekiel Cannedy (G) – 18.8 PPG, 33 made threes (.347 from deep) – A dynamic perimeter threat, Cannedy spaces the floor with his three-point shooting and provides consistent scoring alongside Howell.
- Romeo Aquino (F) – 13.0 PPG, strong inside presence – Aquino anchors the paint with strong inside scoring and rim protection, giving Fayetteville State a reliable interior presence.
- Travon Cooper II (G) – 9.9 PPG, efficient scorer (.507 FG%) – Cooper is an efficient slasher who thrives in transition and adds balance with his ability to finish at a high percentage.
Morehouse (4–5)
- Sincere Moore (G) – 13.5 PPG, versatile scorer – Moore is a versatile scorer who can attack off the dribble and stretch defenses with his shooting.
- Josiah Lawson (F) – 13.5 PPG, .579 FG%, dangerous from three (.600) – Lawson is a dangerous forward, combining efficient finishing inside with a lethal .600 clip from beyond the arc.
- Brandon Peters (G) – 11.7 PPG, 18 made threes (.486 from deep) – Peters is a steady wing scorer who excels from deep, knocking down threes at nearly a 50% rate.
- Logan McCormick (F) – 11.6 PPG, 6.1 RPG, physical rebounder – McCormick brings toughness in the paint, rebounding at a high level while finishing efficiently around the rim.
What to Expect
- Fayetteville State: Fast-paced offense (82.7 PPG) but vulnerable on the boards (-6.7 margin).
- Morehouse: Efficient shooting (.442 FG%) and turnover pressure (8.2 steals per game).
- Expect a game decided by perimeter shooting and rebounding toughness.
Key Takeaways
- Broncos must limit turnovers and crash the glass to offset Morehouse’s physicality.
- Morehouse’s balanced scoring could exploit Fayetteville State’s defensive lapses.
- Whoever controls the rebounding battle likely controls the outcome.
📺 Watch: ESPN+ | 🎟 Tickets: Ticketmaster
Game 2: “Broncos Clash with Panthers – A CP3 Showcase”
Matchup: Fayetteville State vs Clark Atlanta
Date & Time: December 19, 2025 | 12:30 PM
Location:Gateway Arena, Atlanta, GA
Event: Chris Paul CP3 HBCU Challenge.
Day two brings Fayetteville State face-to-face with Clark Atlanta, a program known for its size, rebounding, and defensive toughness. This matchup highlights the contrast between the Broncos’ speed and perimeter play against the Panthers’ interior dominance. It’s a classic CIAA vs. SIAC showdown that could come down to execution in the final minutes.
Clark Atlanta (5–3)
Players to Watch
- Jadyn Shider (F) – 15.0 PPG, 8.0 RPG, .673 FG% – Shider dominates the interior with his size and efficiency, shooting nearly 67% from the field while controlling the glass.
- Chase Hill (G) – 10.4 PPG, efficient shooter (.531 FG%) – Hill is an efficient scorer who picks his spots well, providing steady offense from the backcourt.
- Ny’Mire Little (G) – 9.4 PPG, 15 made threes – Little adds perimeter punch with his three-point shooting, giving the Panthers a reliable outside option.
- Kharye Cayne (F) – Defensive anchor, 6.4 RPG- Cayne anchors the defense with his rebounding and shot-blocking, making life difficult for opposing slashers.
What to Expect
- Clark Atlanta: Interior dominance (37.8 RPG, 5.3 blocks per game).
- Fayetteville State: Tempo-driven offense, free-throw accuracy (.742), and perimeter shooting.
- Expect a physical contest where speed meets size.
Key Takeaways
- Clark Atlanta’s rim protection could neutralize Fayetteville State’s drives.
- Broncos need hot shooting from deep to stretch the defense.
- Free throws and turnovers will be decisive in crunch time.
📺 Watch: ESPN+ | 🎟 Tickets: Ticketmaster
Final Take
The Chris Paul CP3 HBCU Classic is more than a showcase—it’s a proving ground. For Fayetteville State, the weekend offers a chance to measure up against SIAC competition and highlight the CIAA’s brand of basketball.
- Against Morehouse, the Broncos must prove they can rebound and defend efficiently.
- Against Clark Atlanta, they’ll need perimeter shooting and composure against size.
Win or lose, Fayetteville State’s performance will be a statement about the depth of talent in the CIAA. With Chris Paul’s spotlight on these programs, expect intensity, pride, and memorable moments that elevate HBCU basketball on a national stage.
