Atlanta Hawks HBCU Night transforms State Farm Arena into blended homecoming

Atlanta Hawks fan A. Nicholas Brown looks on at the Hawks vs. Raptors game during HBCU Night, a celebration and recognition of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, on Feb. 23, 2024, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Ga. (Kenny Murry/WABE)

On Friday, The Atlanta Hawks hosted their sixth annual HBCU Night at State Farm Arena, coinciding with the team’s game against the Toronto Raptors.

“We come together to honor our nation’s and city’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities for their dedication to empowering the educational journeys of African American students,” said Camye Mackey, EVP and chief people, diversity, and inclusion officer of the Atlanta Hawks in a recent press release.

“HBCUs play a critical role in shaping the leadership capabilities of many of our employees, and continuously contribute to the advancement of our entire community.” 

Atlanta Hawks fans and HBCU Alumni gathered inside of State Farm Arena on Friday, Feb. 23, 2024, to celebrate HBCU Night, the sixth annual celebration sponsored by the NBA team. (Kenny Murry/WABE)