In a celebration of excellence at the CIAA Basketball Tournament, the Lincoln University Lions and Fayetteville State Lady Broncos emerged victorious, claiming their championship titles in Baltimore. The tournament, steeped in tradition and history, goes beyond the court, fostering a sense of community and nostalgia among attendees.
The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), established in 1912 as America’s oldest historically Black athletic conference, showcases 14 annual championships, including the prestigious basketball tournament. Drawing in 190,000 fans from across the nation, the event not only highlights HBCU sports but also emphasizes scholarship and culture through various activities such as Fan Fest, High School Education Day, Career Expo, and step shows.
A significant contributor to the CIAA's mission is Nationwide, a loyal partner since 2008, dedicated to recognizing the talents of student-athletes and promoting academic opportunities. Nationwide's commitment is exemplified by their contribution of over $1 million to the CIAA’s scholarship fund, with an additional $130,000 donated during a halftime presentation on Nationwide Day. This act underscores Nationwide's continuous support for the education of CIAA students, further accentuated by their engagement at the Career Expo to connect with students and showcase the company’s inclusive culture.
Adding a touch of creativity and excitement to the tournament was Zaya Campbell, a standout talent from Nationwide, whose rendition of the company's jingle went viral on TikTok in 2023. Campbell engaged with attendees at Fan Fest, encouraging them to showcase their best performances of Nationwide’s jingle, creating an interactive and lively atmosphere for the fans.
Looking ahead, the 2025 Men’s and Women’s CIAA Basketball Tournament is set to return to Baltimore in February, promising another exciting showcase of talent and sportsmanship. For further information and updates, visit ciaatournament.org and discover more about Nationwide's diverse partnerships.