Athletics are an integral part of HBCU life, and today Mark is joined by Howard University men’s basketball coach Kenneth Blakeney, who knows the challenges and the rewards all too well. He reflects on the importance of sustaining HBCU athletic programs and why Howard is looking for someone who brings more than athletic ability to the table. Coach Blakeney successfully recruited a 5-star center in Makur Maker to Howard over the Power 5 Conferences. The two discuss why African Americans often make up the majority of many athletic teams, but there are less than 5-percent of Black students at those same colleges and universities. They also share some memories of Coach John Thompson, and discuss the hard decisions a coach must make to protect and foster the growth of student athletes. Executive Producer: Adell Coleman Producer: Brittany Temple Distributor: DCP Entertainment For additional content: makeitplain.com  See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy