Actor and Producer Michael B. Jordan, in partnership with WME Sports, the sports division of WME, an Endeavor company, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment (HBSE), and Scout, Horizon Media’s sports, entertainment and experiential marketing agency, today announced the launch of an inaugural HBCU college basketball showcase, the Hoop Dreams Classic. The event will be held on December 18, 2021 at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., and will feature four of the top Division I HBCU Men’s and Women’s basketball programs.
“This past year has been the tipping point for so many, including myself, in revving up support for Black people,” said Jordan. “As a Newark native, I am committed to bringing change to the community and am honored to be able to present The Hoop Dreams Classic as a way to celebrate the value of community, education, and Black college experiences. Through our shared love of basketball, I look forward to bringing the communal spirit of HBCUs to the city that helped shape me into the man I am today.”
The Hoop Dreams Classic will be a one-day, doubleheader basketball showcase. It will also feature an immersive cultural experience highlighting other elements of HBCU life and culture including Battle of the Bands, culinary events, live musical performances, film festivals, college and career opportunities and more.
Hoop Dreams is a social impact lifestyle brand at the intersection of sport, apparel, and culture. It provides a platform and resources to help athletes control their destiny and live their Hoop Dreams on and off the court.
“After seeing firsthand the lack of resources and information available to basketball players, I was determined to make Hoop Dreams the vehicle that could provide the tools these kids need to be successful in life beyond the game,” said Hoop Dreams CEO Jessica Estrada. “Michael and I share similar foundations and visions for our communities which is why I am thrilled to partner with him.”
Partial proceeds from the event will be used to support organizations focused around advancing historically black colleges and universities and the local Newark community. 160over90, a culturally-led, full service marketing agency and Endeavor company, has been tapped for the design and branding of the Hoop Dreams Classic.
