SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (Aug. 6, 2026) – The Chris Paul Family Foundation and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame announced the field of teams for the third annual Toyota Chris Paul HBCU Classic, with Virginia State University among the Division II programs selected to participate. 

The 2026 Chris Paul HBCU Classic will take place December 4-5 at CareFirst Arena in Washington, D.C., marking the first time the event will be held in the nation's capital. Events DC, the official convention and sports authority for the District of Columbia, will serve as the host partner for the two-day event. 

Virginia State will face West Virginia State University on Friday, December 4. The other Division II matchup will feature Winston-Salem State University and Clark Atlanta University. 

The Chris Paul HBCU Classic brings together HBCU basketball programs for a premier showcase while providing student-athletes, coaches, alumni and fans with an opportunity to experience the excitement surrounding one of college basketball's signature events. 

"We're thrilled to be part of the 2026 Chris Paul HBCU Classic. It has become one of the most anticipated events in HBCU athletics, and we're honored to have been selected to participate," said Virginia State Athletics Director Tiffani-Dawn B. Sykes '01. "With three of our largest alumni chapters in the area, we know this will be a special opportunity to reconnect with our alumni and supporters while competing against outstanding competition. It's another opportunity to represent Virginia State University and show why Greater Happens Here." 

"We are extremely thrilled and excited to be participating in the 2026 Chris Paul HBCU Classic in Washington, D.C., on the weekend of December 4-5," said VSU Head Men's Basketball Coach Lonnie Blow, Jr. "We've watched the event in the past, and we understand just how special it is to be a part of it this season. "The opportunity to play and be a part of the happenings at the Chris Paul HBCU Classic will be tremendous for our program, university, alumni, boosters and Trojan Nation all around. Our team will be ready to compete, and I'm sure our VSU Trojan fans and supporters will be out in full force, like always. 

"We appreciate this opportunity and can't wait to join in on the excitement and all the things that the Chris Paul HBCU Classic has to offer. See you there! Go Trojans!"