Boston, MA- The University of Massachusetts Boston proudly hosts the third annual Black College Coaches Classic (BCCC) on November 25 and 26 in the Clark Athletic Center Gymnasium.
This special two-day event will feature three of just 14 NCAA Division III men's basketball programs in New England led by black head coaches. Participating in the event this year will be UMass Boston, Tufts University, and Bowdoin College.
"As an institution that strives to be a lead health promoting, antiracist institution, the BCCC helps us meet our institutional priorities by utilizing the platform of collegiate men's basketball to highlight the importance of representation of black coaches in head coaching positions. The programming surrounding this year's events also gives us the opportunity to further educate young people through models in leadership that look like them and have paved the way for them to follow a similar path if they desire to do so in their careers", said Vice Chancellor of Athletics and Recreation, Jacqui Schuman.
The BCCC originated in 2021 with UMass Boston head men's basketball coach Jason Harris organizing the inaugural event featuring other colleges and universities with black head coaches to bring attention to the excellence that black leadership represents in sports.
"I am thrilled to continue the Black College Coaches Classic at UMass Boston," said Harris. "I want to thank Coach Linton and Tufts for partnering with us for the third consecutive year. It shows Brandon's commitment to spotlight the importance of the event."
"Additionally, I would like to welcome Coach Lloyd and Bowdoin to this year's classic." He added, "I am beyond excited to continue to grow the event with partners as prestigious and committed as they are."
When asked about participating in the Black College Coaches Classic, Lloyd commented, "The opportunity to participate in an event that is not only great from a competitive experience but one that is centered around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is really special, and it's something that we seek out here at Bowdoin.
Tufts' head coach Brandon Linton also commented on the classic, saying "I'm excited to participate in the Black Coaches Classic again. Representation is so important, and I am happy to join Jason and Alex in doing so for black coaches. Hopefully, we can show other young black aspiring coaches an example to follow as they navigate their careers. We are looking forward of awareness through competition.".
Following Saturday's matchup against Tufts University, coach Harris and the UMass Boston men's basketball team will partner with the 3 Point Foundation to host a youth clinic to spread the knowledge and passion for the game to youth athletes in the Boston community.
"I would also like to thank all the players, officials, and staff members who will sacrifice part of their Thanksgiving to showcase representation in college athletics. I look forward to two competitive basketball games, a high-energy and impactful youth clinic, and the hope of inspiring a young coach the way John Thompson, John Chaney, Nolan Richardson, and so many others inspired me," added Coach Harris.
Full Schedule details can be found below. For live stats and video coverage for the entire weekend, visit UMass Boston - Official Athletics Website (beaconsathletics.com).
Saturday, November 25:
12:30 – UMASS Boston vs Tufts
Sunday, November 26:
12:30 -- UMASS Boston vs Bowdoin
