Grambling State News

11.17.23 —- MOBILE, Ala. — The Port City Classic (PCC) is the ultimate “party with a purpose” combining entertainment, education, and celebration of African American culture. 

A schedule of events has been released which includes national, state and local leaders. The football game features the Alabama State University Hornets and the Grambling State University Tigers.  

“The Port City Classic is an experience, says Executive Director Kevin Ball. We want the Gulf Coast residents and visitors to experience the excellence of not only Historically Black Colleges and Universities but also the excellence of the African American experience.” 

The experience begins on Friday, Nov. 3, with a cheer clinic for cheer teams and organizations with participants ages 13 and up. The clinic will be administered by the Alabama State Cheer Team and coaching staff. 

“Cheer is a sport, and they deserve proper training at all levels, says Ball. We are looking for park leagues all the way up to high school teams to register and participate.” 

Registration ends Oct. 20. 

The Port City Classic continues with an all-day Black Business Expo on Friday, Nov. 3 beginning at 9 a.m. at the Mobile Convention Center featuring national journalist, columnist and speaker, Roland Martin. 

With his expertise and influence, Martin will contribute to the event’s emphasis on college and career readiness, business and financial leadership, and community involvement. 

The event aims to foster personal and professional growth among attendees while also promoting community engagement and development. The expo will include three stages of panel-style discussions throughout the day.

 “It’s time for us to Cultivate the Culture,” says Ball. “Our goal is to ensure everyone leaves ready to build better futures and communities.” 

Panels will also include Alabama political leaders and five presidents from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The day will also be filled with shopping and empowerment thanks to the Sister II Sister expo area.  

The party continues Friday evening with a comedy show and First Friday mixer featuring D.L. Hughley from the award winning “D.L. Hughley Radio Show.”  

Saturday starts off with the opening of the Port City Classic Tailgate Festival at 8 a.m. Enjoy food trucks, laughter, trash talking and tons of tailgate food. The Port City Classic parade sponsored by Bishop state Community College kicks off in Downtown Mobile beginning at 10 a.m, and the head-to-head matchup of the ASU Hornets and the GSU Tigers begins at 4 p.m. at Ladd Peebles Stadium featuring the recording artist CUPID and largest HBCU “Halftime Line Dance.”  

“Our city is born to celebrate. We want everyone to join us as we celebrate the excellence of the HBCU and African American experience.”

 For ticket and additional information, visit the official website at  www.mobileportcityclassic.com .