CIAA tournament: Game-changer for HBCU students, athletes

Nya Morris is named CIAA Player of the Year during the 50th anniversary of the tournament.

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association basketball tournament brings an increase in excitement, culture and opportunities for HBCU students.

This year’s event in March marked a historic milestone in 50 years of women’s basketball in the CIAA, shining light on the past and inspiring the next generation of student-athletes to consider HBCUs for their academic and athletic futures.

For decades, the CIAA tournament has been more than just competitive basketball games, including emphasis on culture and economics. Located in Baltimore, the event draws thousands of fans, alumni and recruiters, giving HBCU athletes the platform to showcase their talents.

The impact goes far beyond the court, offering networking opportunities and exposure that can build students’ futures.

Terrence Jenkins, women’s basketball head coach  at Claflin University, cited the tournament’s significance.

“The CIAA tournament isn’t just about basketball, it’s about legacy, culture and opportunity. For many of our students, this event provides pathways to professional careers, whether in sports or other industries,” Jenkins said.

This year’s tournament put emphasis on the 50 years of women’s basketball in the CIAA.

Nya Morris, a senior guard at Claflin, was named CIAA Player of the Year. She said, “It’s not just about competing, it’s about representing the legacy of all the women who paved the way for us to be here.

“For me, this tournament is the culmination of years of hard work, passion and dedication. Knowing that I get to step onto the court during such a historic moment is humbling.”

Morris became the first Claflin player to win the award. Morris' 20 points per game scoring average led the CIAA during the regular season, and she ranks 12th nationally in scoring.

The Claflin women’s team earned other honors at the CIAA tournament:

-- Freshman center Olivia Randolph was named to the CIAA 2024-25 Women's Basketball All-Rookie Team. Her 30 blocked shots during the regular season led the team, and she ranked fifth in the CIAA. She was third on the team in rebounds with 98.

-- The team was recognized for their work in the classroom by receiving the 2024-25 CIAA Women's Basketball Team Grade-Point Average Award. The Lady Panthers compiled 3.48 GPA – highest among the 12 women’s teams in the CIAA.

Claflin’s women’s team finished the season at 15-11, falling to top-seeded Virginia Union 59-55 in the quarterfinal round of the tournament.

The Claflin men fell to Lincoln University 56-53 in the quarterfinals.