By Megan SaylesAFRO Staff Writermsayles@afro.com Since the NCAA lifted its ban on name, image and likeness (NIL) deals in 2021, the industry has grown to be worth nearly $1.67 billion, according to a report from Opendorse, a leading NIL marketplace and technology company. But, it’s far from a fair playing field. Division I men’s basketball […]
Category: Sports
A legacy in motion: Bowie State’s 90th Homecoming ignites joy, family and Bulldog pride
Bowie State University celebrated its 90th annual homecoming with a week of spirited events, including a parade led by Tony Award-winning alumnus Myles Frost and a lively football game that ended in a narrow 28-27 loss to Elizabeth City State. The festivities highlighted Bulldog pride, community spirit, and the university’s ongoing commitment to safety and student success.
From Cam Newton to James Brown, honorees at 10th Annual MMCA Gala assert commitment to diversity, inclusivity in media
By D. Kevin McNeirSpecial to the AFROkmcneir@afro.com Emmy Award-winning comedian, author and activist Loni Love delivered a perfect blend of humor and serious insights as the host for the 10th Annual Multicultural Media Correspondents Dinner (MMCDâ„¢) Gala Extravaganza, on Oct. 27, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. “Media diversity starts at the top, and it’s […]
Down but not out, the Ravens eye a second-half resurgence after Lamar Jackson’s return
Lamar Jackson’s return sparked new life in the Ravens, leading them to a 28–6 win over Miami and keeping their playoff hopes alive. Now 3–5, Baltimore is healthier, more confident, and eyeing a midseason turnaround — though lingering injuries and line struggles remain hurdles.
NBA scandal: 34 people indicted in major illegal gambling and betting operation
Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, and former NBA player Damon Jones are among 34 people indicted in a federal probe into an illegal gambling ring tied to Mafia families. Prosecutors say the trio used insider information and rigged poker games to profit, leading the NBA to place Billups and Rozier on indefinite leave.
Players to watch in Major League Baseball’s 2025 World Series Finals
Shohei Ohtani’s remarkable performance in Game 4 of the NLCS playoffs, where he hit three home runs and struck out 10 batters, has earned him a spot among the greatest postseason players of all time as the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare to face the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2025 World Series Finals.
Lamar Jackson back on practice field for Ravens after missing 2 games with hamstring injury
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson returned to the practice field Oct. 22 after missing two games with a hamstring injury, giving the struggling team hope as they prepare to face the Chicago Bears. Although Jackson was limited in practice, teammates and coaches welcomed his presence, while Coach John Harbaugh remained noncommittal about Jackson’s status for Sunday’s game.
A’ja Wilson’s historic season for the champion Aces: MVP, scoring title, Finals MVP and much more
A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces had an unprecedented season, winning the WNBA’s MVP award, scoring title, championship, and Finals MVP, while also sharing the NBA’s defensive player of the year award, setting records in total points, rebounds, and playoff scoring.
Harbaugh rejects the idea of staff changes as the Ravens stagger into their bye week
The Baltimore Ravens have an 1-5 record after a 17-3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, with injuries and struggles on both sides of the ball contributing to the poor start.
Former NFL player Doug Martin died after struggling with officers while being detained, police say
Former NFL running back Doug Martin died at age 36 after a struggle with Oakland police who were detaining him during a break-in investigation, officials allege. Authorities and multiple oversight agencies are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
South African rowers of color become first to compete at Boston regatta, part of larger trend toward access
Four South African rowers made history as the first crew of color from their country to compete internationally at Boston’s Head of the Charles Regatta, part of a global effort to diversify one of the world’s most exclusive sports. Their journey highlights how lack of access — not talent — continues to limit participation for athletes of color in rowing.
Coaches, players and community gather to honor Blake Bozeman’s legacy at inaugural clinic
By Dr. Deborah BaileyAFRO Contributing Editor The inaugural Twenty2 Basketball Coaches Clinic and Networking Brunch, welcomed more than 50 high school, college, community league coaches and players to learn from and connect with each other and NBA personnel on Sept. 14. Shortly after the day started, it became obvious to friends and family that the […]

