By Stephanie Harper,
Special to the AFRO
Events surrounding the CIAA Tournament provided the fun Charm City needed the week of Feb. 26 – March 3. The return of the competition marked the fourth year Baltimore hosted the event. The men’s and women’s basketball tournament for historically black colleges and universities in the NCAA Division II was held at the CFG Bank Arena in downtown Baltimore.
While fans attended the tournament to support their favorite schools, others participated in events, expos, cultural activities and enjoyed countless other free resources inside of the Baltimore Convention Center.
The CIAA Tournament expanded its presence this year throughout Baltimore.
This event has become a celebration of success, family and culture. The nuances of Baltimore and the subcultures are only strengthened during CIAA weekend, as it marks the end of Black History Month with music, entertainment, art and of course, fashion.
Coats, jackets, and the latest editions of shoes were on display as the athletes, coaches and staff came to the tournament dressed to match the fans’ energy. The fans and spectators showed up in their best HBCU gear and represented their teams in style.
Fans, and residents enjoyed the multiple events centered around music, culture and arts. The city buzzed with festivities, which included events at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum and at the Hilton, which hosted the Women’s Empowerment Brunch.
As the weekend approached, the anticipation for the annual CIAA Alumni party and the Legends of Hip Hop party spread through the city.
Visitors and fans reveled in the work of celebrity DJs and guest artists: DJ Skillz; DJ Shakim; Chubb Rock; DJ Kool; Sugar Bear; Rare Essence; BDaht; DJ Kid Capri; Fatman Scoop; Keith Murray, Mr. Cheeks; SAINTED Trap Choir; LeVelle; Gabby Simone; The Hamiltones; Rudy Currence; Kevin Ross; Eric Bellinger; Shelby J. and Mike Phillips.
Baltimore’s local artists also put their creativity in the spotlight, to include DJ Duke; DJ Dre; DJ Flow; DJ Twisted; Sauce God; Jess Hilarious and others.
The CIAA Fan Fest, a free two-day event at the Baltimore Convention Center, highlighted free activities from sponsor organizations and concerts. Tournament officials provided an array of free giveaways and merchandise for all who attended.
Fan Fest allowed fans and visitors to engage more with local artists, entertainers and community members.
The Vendor’s Village was a bonus this year, featuring a marketplace full of local retailers, businesses and organizations.
Local Baltimore comedian and influencer Smirf described what CIAA means to the area.
“This type of event speaks on the value of engagement and what it means to the community,” he said. “To be able to bring this type of positivity to my city is a blessing.”
The CIAA Alumni party was a glamorous blend of history and modern nightlife. The annual party proved to be another success as everyone enjoyed the first event of many hosted by Rams Head Live located in the Power Plant throughout the weekend.
The culture of the HBCU history flooded the arena Friday night at the Wendy’s Step Show Throw Down featuring sororities and fraternities from the competing and surrounding area HBCUs.
Hosted by 92Q radio personality Dominique Da Diva and sponsored by Wells Fargo, it featured dance-offs, laughs and a proper swag surf to unite the crowd.
The CIAA weekend wouldn’t be complete without a step show. The teams included: Alpha Kappa Alpha from Morgan State University; Alpha Phi Alpha from Elizabeth City State University; Delta Sigma Theta from Central Jersey Alumnae; Zeta Phi Beta from Coppin State University (CSU); Phi Beta Sigma from Long Island University; The HU Step Team from Howard University; Omega Psi Phi from North Carolina Central University and Kappa Alpha Psi from North Carolina Central University.
The space was packed and the energy was electric as the room filled with students from various colleges including Baltimore’s local gems, Morgan State University and Coppin State University. Appearances from Big Tigger from BET Rap City in the basement and the rapper Fabolous surprised the fans and left others wanting more.
Frank James, from Virginia, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha valued the purpose of the event.
“This type of event is beneficial to the city and the youth in particular,” he said.”It shows them that they have more resources and activities to engage in [other] than what they’re used to.”
Danielle Rose, a member of Delta Sigma Theta, from Baltimore, described her experience.
“The amount of energy and people this event brought out was great and needed for the city. We packed this area with college students, alumni, and the community without incident. I’m happy I came and got a chance to support the event.”
Ultimately, the women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority took the champion’s trophy home to CSU’s West Baltimore campus.
Baltimore’s downtown venues welcomed the party atmosphere throughout the weekend. Rams Head Live hosted CIAA The Legends of Hip Hop party featuring Fatman Scoop, Mr. Cheeks, and Keith Murray.
Fatman Scoop started the lineup with 90s and 2000s hits that kept the crowd moving and engaged. Mr. Cheeks followed with a set that turned the Baltimore scene into a nostalgic moment.
Keith Murray ended the show with a blast to the past with hits such as “The Most Beautifullest Thing in the World.”
Crystal Quarles attended the CIAA Legends of Hip Hop Party and described the fun.
“This was a great experience and the CIAA did a fantastic job bringing the city out for the ‘30 and over’ crowd,” she said. “I had a ball, the atmosphere was great and I can’t wait to see what things they have planned for next year. It also makes Black History Month that much more special for me.”
The atmosphere on March 3 mellowed as the crowd turned out for the final day of activities and pop-ups.
The Trap Choir, CIAA edition, was the perfect ending to the weekend.