By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS Sports Desk
The Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) is continuing its rise on the national stage, with increased television exposure for basketball and sustained dominance on the football field drawing attention to HBCU athletics.
This season, SWAC men’s and women’s basketball games are receiving expanded national
coverage through platforms such as HBCU GO, showcasing conference rivalries and elite talent to a broader audience. Doubleheader broadcasts and streaming access have allowed fans across the country to follow SWAC programs that have long delivered competitive play but limited visibility.
Conference leaders say the exposure is about more than ratings — it’s about opportunity. National broadcasts help elevate recruiting, strengthen sponsorships, and reinforce the cultural significance of HBCU athletics. Schools like Texas Southern, Alabama A&M, Jackson State, and Florida A&M continue to benefit from the spotlight as conference play intensifies.
While basketball garners growing attention, SWAC football remains a powerhouse. The conference has dominated recent HBCU football seasons, with its champions regularly advancing to the Celebration Bowl, widely recognized as the HBCU national championship game. Programs such as Jackson State and Florida A&M have helped redefine the competitive standard, drawing national media coverage, packed stadiums, and high-profile recruits.
The combination of basketball visibility and football success signals a broader shift for the SWAC. As media partnerships expand and fan engagement grows, the conference continues to prove that HBCU athletics belong in the national conversation.
SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS will continue covering the teams, athletes, and institutions driving the
SWAC’s momentum forward.