Celebrating Excellence: The CIAA Basketball Tournament Unites Generations and Cultivates Community

As the Lincoln University Lions and Fayetteville State Lady Broncos secured their respective championship titles at the 2024 Men’s and Women’s CIAA Basketball Tournament in Baltimore, there was also plenty of off-the-court action happening around the event. It’s not just about the games — it’s about the annual reunion where memories are made, friendships are renewed, and legacies are passed down. 

Founded in 1912, the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) is America’s oldest historically Black athletic conference and features 14 annual championships. Its basketball tournament celebrates HBCU sports, scholarship and culture, attracting 190,000 fans from across the country and offering several events for attendees, including Fan Fest, High School Education Day, the Career Expo, step shows and more. 

As a steadfast partner of the CIAA since 2008, Nationwide celebrates the talents of student-athletes while also supporting academic opportunity for all CIAA students. Over the years, Nationwide has contributed over $1 million to the CIAA’s scholarship fund, empowering students across the conference. During a halftime presentation on Nationwide Day, they added another $130,000, a testament to their unwavering support. Nationwide also participated in the Career Expo to connect with students and promote the company’s dynamic and inclusive culture. 

Also present during tournament week was one of Nationwide’s own champions, Zaya Campbell, whose soulful rendition of the Nationwide jingle went viral on TikTok in 2023. She caught up with attendees at Fan Fest to invite them to give their best performances of Nationwide’s jingle. Needless to say, the fans did not disappoint!

The 2025 Men’s and Women’s CIAA Basketball Tournament returns to Baltimore in February. Visit ciaatournament.org for updates.

Learn more about Nationwide’s many other partnerships.