Michael B. Jordan launching HBCU basketball showcase

Actor Michael B. Jordan is providing Black college basketball players with an opportunity to showcase their skills.

Jordan announced Wednesday the launch of the Hoop Dreams Classic, a historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) basketball showcase that will be held Dec. 18, 2021, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, according to People's Eric Todisco.

"This past year has been the tipping point for so many, including myself, in revving up support for Black people," Jordan said in a statement. "As a Newark native, I am committed to bringing change to the community and am honored to be able to present the Hoop Dreams Classic as a way to celebrate the value of community, education, and Black college experiences. Through our shared love of basketball, I look forward to bringing the communal spirit of HBCUs to the city that helped shape me into the man I am today."

The Hoop Dreams Classic will feature a doubleheader with four of the top Division I HBCU men's and women's basketball programs along with a battle of the bands, other live musical performances, and more. Proceeds from the event will support organizations helping to advance HBCUs and the Newark community.