Read the Original Article
Hampton, Va. – (February 6, 2026) Hampton University's men's basketball team will take center stage at the Kia Forum in a historic rivalry game. On Friday, February 13, 2026, the Pirates will face North Carolina A&T in the NBA HBCU Classic during All-Star Weekend. Reflecting a long-standing dedication to historically black institutions, the NBA is donating $100,000 to the universities.
For Hampton University, one of the nation’s most storied HBCUs, this matchup represents more than just athletic visibility. It is a broader platform for student-athletes as Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) continues to reshape college sports. Supporting Hampton in this evolving space is 68 Oak, the university’s official NIL Collective. Founded by alumni and investors like Jeff Granger, the collective seeks to turn student potential into "generational success" by providing a professionalized support structure.
To commemorate the moment, 68 Oak has launched a special All-Star Jersey Giveaway to engage the global “Pirate Nation”. Now through Feb. 16, 2026, fans can enter for a chance to win an official Hampton University team jersey from the All-Star Game. The giveaway is a cornerstone of 68 Oak's strategic effort to deepen its connection with supporters. The momentum from the game translates into long-term advocacy for its student-athlete support programs.
"The 68 Oak Collective has emerged as a vital player in this new era, providing Pirate supporters with a unique and invaluable opportunity to connect with and directly support our athletes," said Anthony D. Henderson Sr., Director of Athletics at Hampton University.
68 Oak’s mission recently expanded through a new partnership with Digital Sports Partners (DSP), a national sports marketing and NIL agency, to redefine the student-athlete experience. By focusing on high-impact digital branding and sponsorship development, the partnership has already begun opening new pipelines for national and regional brand opportunities.
“At DSP, this collaboration holds particular significance as 68 Oak continues to grow its presence in the NIL space. Hampton University has a long history of shaping scholars, leaders, and athletes whose achievements resonate across generations, and we aim to help strengthen the support system that encourages alumni to give back,” said Debra Lutsky, Co-Founder of Digital Sports Partners based in Virginia.
As Hampton prepares for tipoff in Los Angeles, this moment highlights how NIL collectives, strategic partners, and institutions are working together to create meaningful opportunities for student-athletes that last long after the final buzzer.