Grambling Dominates CP3 HBCU Classic Opener with Decisive Victory
Grambling State opened the Chris Paul HBCU Classic in impressive fashion, defeating Norfolk State 80–68 at Gateway Center Arena. This victory marks a significant achievement for Grambling as they improve their season record to 4–6, showcasing their potential among premier HBCU basketball programs.
Grambling’s Commanding Performance
The Tigers dominated the game from the beginning. They scored the first nine points, establishing early momentum. By halftime, Grambling had built a solid 38–21 lead.
During the first half, Grambling exhibited strong offensive and defensive strategies. They shot 48 percent from the field while limiting Norfolk State to just 23.7 percent shooting. This defensive effort meant that Norfolk State often struggled to overcome their early deficit.
- First Half Score: Grambling 38, Norfolk State 21
- Grambling Shooting: 48% (First Half)
- Norfolk State Shooting: 23.7% (First Half)
Norfolk State attempted a comeback with an 8–3 run, narrowing the margin to 11–8. However, Grambling responded decisively, launching an 18–2 scoring run to secure a commanding 29–10 lead.
Key Performers
Antonio Munoz was the standout player for Grambling, scoring 22 points with an impressive shooting performance of 10-of-14. He also contributed five rebounds and two assists, solidifying his role in the Tigers’ offense.
Additional contributions came from:
- Rickey Ballard: 19 points (4 three-pointers)
- Jamil Muttilib: 13 points (off the bench)
- Roderick Coffee III: 10 points
- Derrius Ward: 10 points
Grambling’s bench scored a total of 27 points, highlighting the depth of their roster.
Norfolk State’s Resilience
Despite the challenging start, Norfolk State fought back in the second half. Elijah Jamison led the Spartans with a game-high 26 points and six rebounds. Devon Ellis and Anthony McComb III added 12 points each, demonstrating their effort to close the gap.
Norfolk State managed to cut the lead during the second half, but Grambling consistently responded, including a critical 16–7 run that pushed their advantage to 70–47.
Exciting Opening for the Chris Paul HBCU Classic
Grambling State’s overall performance included shooting 48.2 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from three-point range. They also sank 17 of 22 free throws and dominated the rebounding battle, affirming their status in HBCU basketball.
This game kicked off the Chris Paul HBCU Classic, a two-day celebration of HBCU basketball, supported by the Basketball Hall of Fame and the Chris Paul Family Foundation.
What’s Next for the Teams
Norfolk State will aim to recover in their next matchup against Jackson State on Friday, December 19, at 7:30 p.m. ET, to be broadcast on ESPNU. Meanwhile, Grambling State will face Hampton at 5:00 p.m. that same day, buoyed by their strong season opener.
