NORFOLK, Va. – For the second year in a row, the Norfolk State men's basketball team will participate in the HBCU Challenge presented by Boost Mobile. The event takes place Dec. 17-18 in Las Vegas at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.

"It's exciting to be back a part of the Chris Paul HBCU Challenge," head coach Robert Jones said, "Last year's experience was amazing and first-class. With this platform, it will continue to shine a national light on HBCU culture, players, and coaches. We can't wait to get to Vegas!"

There will be some familiar faces amongst the other three teams participating: two former MEAC opponents in Hampton and North Carolina A&T State, along with Texas Southern rounding out the field. The Pirates will be playing in their second HBCU Challenge and the Aggies in their first.

The Tigers of Texas Southern will also be playing in their first HBCU Challenge. Last season, Texas Southern won the SWAC Tournament and defeated Texas A&M – Corpus Christi in the First Four before falling to eventual national champion Kansas in the first round.

Last year, Norfolk State and Hampton opened the event, with the Spartans coming away with a 70-61 win over the Pirates. Norfolk State finished the event with a 70-63 win over Grambling State.