Historic Showdown: Prairie View A&M vs. Alabama A&M in Inaugural Chicago HBCU Baseball Classic at Wrigley Field

CHICAGO (WLS) — In a groundbreaking event, two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) faced off at Chicago’s iconic Wrigley Field this Saturday.

The inaugural Chicago HBCU Baseball Classic saw divided loyalties among fans as they cheered for their respective teams. However, the spirit of unity and celebration of HBCU culture transcended the competition in the stands.

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This first-of-its-kind event highlighted the pride and heritage of HBCUs, making a significant impression at Wrigley Field.

“Can you believe it? This is the first time ever. I love this for us,” expressed Aliyah Jones, an alumna of Alabama A&M.

Organized by Black Baseball Media, the classic took place on a date rich in history, commemorating May 2, 1920, when the first Negro Leagues game was played featuring the Chicago American Giants.

“This event feels like a homecoming for HBCUs in Chicago, and having it is incredibly fulfilling,” shared Earnest Horton from Black Baseball Media. “Numerous community organizations have joined in, and we sold out the first tickets on day one. The fact that it’s free for the community makes it even more special.”

Horton joined ABC7 in February ahead of the special event.

“I never had the opportunity to go to an HBCU, so this right here is very good for me,” Kappa Alpha Psi member Markus Allen said.

“With my son being an HBCU alum, we always had to travel down south to watch them play, but now it’s a blessing and an honor to see the HBCU coming to Chicago,” attendee Carolyn Bonds said.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson delivered the first pitch before the National Anthem ushered in the Prairie View A&M Panthers and the Alabama A&M Bulldogs on the field. HBCU alum and members of Divine Nine fraternities and sororities were beaming with pride.

“And to see some like this finally come to Chicago, as an educator, I can bring my kids and give them the exposure that I had 40 years ago,” Omega Psi Phi member Tracey Johnson said. “It means so much.”