WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Stephen A. Smith took ESPN's First Take to his alma mater, Winston-Salem State, Tuesday.
He attended Winston-Salem State from 1987-1991 and was a guard on the basketball team.
“This morning was one of those mornings where it was tough for me to get out of bed," said Smith. "I don’t mean because I was tired or sleepy. I was just sitting there up since 5 am and I just sat up on the bed and didn’t move because I was thinking about all the memories that I have here, and I wouldn’t be where I’m at today if not for Winston-Salem State University.”
Smith didn't forget to mention legendary Rams head coach Clarence "Big House" Gaines, who coached him.
“He asked me to make a commitment, to make sure that I never forgot Winston-Salem State and I never forgot HBCUs in that order, and that’s what I try to live by and that’s why I’m so committed to doing what I do because it’s the least I can do to honor his memory," said Smith.
It was announced that Winston-Salem State's men's basketball team will play Virginia Union in the 3rd annual HBCU Classic that will be played during NBA All-Star weekend in Indianapolis.
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