Culture, Legacy, and Pride Take Center Court as Hawks Host HBCU Night

The Atlanta Hawks are bringing culture, legacy, and celebration back to State Farm Arena with their eighth annual HBCU Night presented by Chase, set for Saturday, February 7, when the Hawks host the Charlotte Hornets at 7:30 p.m.

This night is about more than basketball. It’s a full-on salute to the academic excellence, history, and cultural impact of more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities, institutions created to educate, empower, and elevate generations of Black leaders. Fans in attendance will also walk away with a Peachtree-themed City Edition rally towel, courtesy of Chase—because Atlanta details matter.

Before tipoff, the Hawks and Chase will host an exclusive fireside chat featuring Florida A&M University alum and powerhouse film producer Will Packer, founder and CEO of Will Packer Productions. Titled “From Atlanta to the World: The Power of Storytelling, Culture and Community,” the conversation will be moderated by Imani Ellis, founder and CEO of CultureCon. While the in-person event is private, fans can tune in via Hawks.com/stream. Expect real talk on storytelling, business, financial empowerment, and how culture fuels success.

The in-arena experience will reflect the heart of HBCU pride. Clark Atlanta University’s Philharmonic Society choir—one of the nation’s most respected collegiate choirs—will open the night and perform the National Anthem. Fans can also catch a concourse stroll by Clark Atlanta’s Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Alpha Pi Chapter, bringing elegance and tradition front and center.

Halftime will be nothing short of electric. Alabama A&M’s “Marching Maroon and White” will take the floor alongside the Clark Atlanta University Mighty Marching Panthers, delivering a soundtrack that defines HBCU excellence. Add in an in-game performance by the ATL Dancers, joined by Mahogany in Motion, the official dance team of Spelman College and Morehouse College, and the energy will be undeniable.

Throughout the game, the Hawks and Chase will also spotlight Dr. Zerita Buchanan, a Spelman College graduate and founder of Dental Dreams, LLC—a private dental practice that doubles as a vocational training center and innovation hub for students pursuing careers in dentistry. It’s a reminder that HBCUs don’t just educate—they build pathways.

Fans can also explore the HBCU Student Marketplace on the concourse, celebrating the entrepreneurial creativity of HBCU students and giving them a platform to shine.

HBCU Night is part of a broader, year-round commitment. Looking ahead, State Farm Arena will host HBCU AWAREFEST on Thursday, March 26, presented by Live Nation Urban and Student Freedom Initiative, continuing the momentum beyond one night.

Limited tickets remain for HBCU Night on February 7 and can be purchased at Hawks.com/tickets. To learn more about Hawks and Chase initiatives, visit Chase.com/Hawks.

This is Atlanta honoring excellence—on the court, in the classroom, and in the culture.