Nia Symone Elevates HBCU Basketball: In a recent announcement, the premier media provider for HBCU sports, HBCU GO, unveiled its highly anticipated basketball schedule for the 2023-24 season. A total of 19 thrilling matchups, encompassing both men’s and women’s games, will take center stage on the streaming digital platform.
One notable addition to the roster of commentators is Nia Symone, a former Division I basketball player at Alabama State University. Armed with a degree in broadcast journalism, Symone is set to bring her unique perspective to the forefront as she kicks off the basketball season at the Clark Atlanta versus Spring Hill showdown this Saturday. Her role will extend across both the women’s game as a color commentator and the men’s game as a sideline reporter.
Reflecting on her involvement, Symone expressed her gratitude, stating, “It’s an honor to be on a platform that is really amplifying HBCU sports and HBCU culture.” Her journey from the basketball court to the broadcast booth showcases her commitment to advancing the representation of HBCU athletics.
Beyond her role with HBCU GO, Nia Symone is involved in various noteworthy projects. As a content creator for Nike, she hosted the groundbreaking digital show, “Come Thru,” marking a significant milestone for the sportswear giant. Symone is also the visionary CEO and founder of “Purpose To Be Heard,” an athlete-led storytelling platform delving into the intricacies of sports experiences and the transition to life after competition.
Also Read: Sports and Imports Owner Arrested in Alabama, Facing Fraud Charges
Symone’s commitment extends to her non-profit initiative, the “Athletes with a Purpose Foundation.” Reflecting on her own journey as an athlete, Symone shared, “I was playing basketball nonstop from the age of four years old up until I was 22. That is the same story for a lot of athletes.” The foundation focuses on providing a platform for athletes across different levels, from Division I to NAIA, sharing their authentic stories, both triumphs, and challenges.
Raised in Atlanta, Symone’s early exposure to the sports world began as a ballgirl for the WNBA‘s Atlanta Dream during high school. Interacting with players during pregame shootarounds ignited her interest in broadcasting, particularly after witnessing LaChina Robinson in the broadcast booth.
“LaChina took me under her wing,” recalled Symone, highlighting the mentorship that fueled her passion for broadcasting. This experience set her on a path to study communications in college, solidifying her goal of becoming a commentator.
Nia Symone’s journey from a ballgirl to a prominent figure in HBCU sports broadcasting exemplifies the power of mentorship, passion, and a commitment to authentic storytelling. As she takes the stage for HBCU GO, her impact on the representation of HBCU culture in the sports media landscape continues to unfold.
Also Read: Omari Peek-Green Spectacular Show: A Triumph for Alabama A&M in Overtime Clash