Defending Champions Poised to Make More History
June 19, 2025 – Houston, Texas
The HBCU Movement, reigning 2024 NBL-US Champions, is officially returning to the National Basketball League – United States (NBL-US) for the upcoming 2026 season, beginning February 21, 2026, with home games hosted at Texas Southern University (TSU) in Houston. The Movement, celebrated for its undefeated championship run and groundbreaking all-HBCU athlete roster, continues to redefine professional basketball and cultural pride in athletics.
A Historic Legacy Continues
The HBCU Movement made global history in 2024 as the first professional basketball team composed entirely of athletes from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to win a championship in a FIBA-sanctioned professional league. Their perfect season wasn’t merely a display of athletic dominance but stood as a cultural and symbolic victory—showcasing the excellence, discipline, and competitive fire bred within HBCU programs nationwide.
Founded on the principle of representation and empowerment, the HBCU Movement was created to provide alumni athletes from HBCUs with an international platform to demonstrate their skill at the professional level. In doing so, the team has inspired a new generation of athletes and fans who see the legacy of HBCUs as a cornerstone of American sports and culture.
Triumphant Return and Star Power
As the Movement prepares for its second professional season, two of the league’s brightest stars headline the returning roster:
- Kalil Potts, 2024 NBL-US Most Valuable Player, known for his leadership, elite versatility, and championship-caliber performance, returns to anchor the team’s high-tempo offense.
- Charleston Dobbs, a 2024 All NBL-US First Team forward, brings his dynamic inside-out scoring and defensive presence back to the hardwood, providing experience and championship resilience.
With a 26-game regular season, the Movement’s 2026 campaign promises to deliver another chapter of exciting, community-driven basketball excellence.
Commissioner’s Statement – Lillian Countee
“The return of the HBCU Movement is not just a milestone for the NBL-US — it is a defining moment for the landscape of professional basketball,” said NBL-US Commissioner Lillian Countee.
“What this team represents goes far beyond the scoreboard. They embody unity, heritage, and the unyielding power of opportunity through education and athletics. Seeing a team comprised entirely of HBCU alumni not only achieve dominance on the court but also inspire pride within communities across the country fills me with tremendous excitement and hope.”
“The HBCU Movement’s return in 2026 signals a continued evolution of the NBL-US — one focused on impact, access, and legacy. We can’t wait to welcome their fans back to Texas Southern University as they defend their championship and continue to make history. The Movement embodies everything our league stands for: culture, competition, and community.”
About the HBCU Movement
The HBCU Movement is the first professional basketball team in history to feature athletes exclusively from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Officially formed to elevate the visibility of HBCU athletes on a global stage, the team competes in the NBL-US, a FIBA-sanctioned professional league based in the United States. Their 2024 undefeated season and championship victory remain one of the most significant accomplishments in professional basketball history.
About the NBL-US
The National Basketball League – United States (NBL-US) is a professional basketball league recognized under FIBA guidelines, dedicated to creating pathways for American athletes to compete professionally under international standards. The NBL-US emphasizes community engagement, athletic excellence, and innovation in professional sports operations, continuing to grow its footprint as one of North America’s most progressive basketball organizations.
2026 Season Details
- Season Start: February 21, 2026
- Home Venue: Texas Southern University, Houston, TX
- Regular Season: 26 Games
- 2024 Record: 10–0 (NBL-US Champions)
Media Contact and Additional Information
For media inquiries, sponsorship opportunities, and official announcements:
📧 info@usnbl.com
🌐 usnbl.com
🌐 thehbcumovement.com