ESPN’s ‘First Take’ Kicks Off Big HBCU Fall Tour, Showcasing Heritage and Spirit

The hit morning show First Take plans four live broadcasts from Black college campuses this fall. Starting Aug. 28 at Norfolk State, the tour marks their most ambitious HBCU series yet. The final show airs on Nov. 20 from Bethune-Cookman.

Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith will bring their signature style to three schools. The duo hits Norfolk State, Delaware State, and Bethune-Cookman. They'll also air a special from Birmingham's Magic City Classic.

At Norfolk State, cameras roll as NFL great Michael Vick starts his coaching career against Towson. The future Hall of Famer takes charge of the Spartans in what promises to be a thrilling season opener.

The crew shifts to Legion Field on Oct. 24. There, Alabama A&M battles Alabama State in the Magic City Classic. This matchup draws the biggest crowds in HBCU football.

Next up: Delaware State on Oct. 29. The timing lines up with their clash against Norfolk State at Lincoln Financial Field. Two ex-Eagles stars face off: DeSean Jackson guides Delaware State while Vick leads Norfolk State's squad.

Bethune-Cookman hosts the final broadcast before their Florida Classic showdown with Florida A&M. Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, this historic institution stands tall among America's oldest Black colleges.

Since 2019, First Take has put HBCU sports front and center. Last year saw them visit Winston-Salem State, where Smith studied. They also stopped at Howard, Tennessee State, and a joint event at Clark Atlanta with Morehouse.

In 2021, they lit up Florida A&M with guests Kevin Hart and Will Packer bringing star power to campus. Special HBCU Week shows aired from Disney's sports complex in 2022, following their 2019 broadcast from 76er's Fieldhouse.

This expanded tour shows ESPN's dedication to Black college athletics and traditions. Viewers can tune in weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on ESPN to catch all the action.