Historic HBCU Hoops Invitational Set for Walt Disney World This December

Inaugural HBCU Hoops Invitational at Walt Disney World

From December 4-7, 2025, the magical world of Walt Disney Resort will transform into a vibrant stage for college basketball as it hosts the inaugural HBCU Hoops Invitational. This groundbreaking tournament will feature a talented selection of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), a celebrated part of the American educational landscape, particularly in athletics.

The competition will be held at the famous ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, and it promises to be an exciting showcase for both men's and women's basketball. The men’s tournament will consist of Florida A&M University, Tuskegee University, Florida Memorial University, and Barber-Scotia College. Meanwhile, the women's teams competing will include Bethune-Cookman University, Hampton University, Edward Waters University, and Cheyney University. This gathering of prestigious institutions is more than just about winning matches; it reflects a shared commitment to celebrating HBCU excellence in sports and education.

Mickey Mouse made a special appearance during the announcement of the tournament, celebrating alongside coaches from these renowned programs. Disney's involvement highlights its ongoing commitment to inclusivity and support for various communities in sports. The event is not just a basketball tournament but a celebration of the rich heritage and accomplishments of HBCUs.

The tournament will follow a single-elimination format, with the HBCU teams competing for the first-ever titles in this innovative event. Florida A&M University, in particular, stands out among the men’s field, having made three appearances in the NCAA Division I Tournament and now led by former Heisman Trophy winner Charlie Ward as their head coach. Cheyney University’s women’s team carved its place in history back in 1982 by becoming the first HBCU to enter the NCAA Division I Tournament Final Four.

In addition to the thrilling basketball games, the HBCU Hoops Invitational aims to serve the broader community. Organized by HBCU Hoops Global, Inc., this initiative will host a college admissions fair alongside the tournament, aiming to support students from HBCUs by creating scholarship opportunities, offering academic assistance, and generating pathways for career development throughout the year.

Haywoode Workman, vice president of HBCU Hoops Global, emphasized that this event transcends the bounds of typical sports tournaments. He stated, "The HBCU Hoops Invitational is far more than a basketball tournament—it's a powerful celebration of heritage, excellence, and the limitless future of HBCU athletics. We aim to build a legacy that opens doors to academic achievement and career readiness for our scholar-athletes."

The HBCU Hoops Invitational further enhances the dynamic calendar of college basketball events hosted at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, which also features other notable competitions such as the WBCA Showcase and ESPN Events Invitational during the busy Thanksgiving holiday week.

Jorge Senior, Disney's Director of Sports Planning and Development, remarked about the excitement of bringing family-friendly events to this impressive complex. He stated, "If you’re a college basketball fan, there’s no better place to be during the holidays than at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex."

Tickets for the HBCU Hoops Invitational are already on sale at www.hbcuhoops.org. This event at Walt Disney World Resort not only showcases the spirited competition of upcoming basketball stars but also highlights the cultural values and rich history associated with HBCUs. The ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, a premiere site for amateur sports, also aims to provide athletes from various disciplines a championship-caliber experience, immersing them in the magic of Disney while engaging them in sports. Enjoy the blend of athletics, education, and entertainment that the HBCU Hoops Invitational will undoubtedly deliver this December.