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The first-ever HBCU All-Star Game delivered some drama on Sunday in New Orleans as two squads representing the nation's best players from historically black colleges and universities produced several highlight plays and a tight finish. In the end, Team McLendon outlasted Team Gaines 79-75 in a game that came down to the wire.

Team McLendon's Najee Garvin of Hampton University drew a charge in transition after a collision with Javonte Cooke of Winston Salem State with 40 seconds left. It was a questionable call, but it kept Team Gaines from going to the free-throw line with a chance to tie the game. Team McLendon then used success at the free-throw line in the game's final minute to squeak out a victory.

Garvin scored 12 points for Team McLendon, and Tajh Green of Benedict College also scored 12 for the victors. But there were some bright moments for Team Gaines as well, such as when Prince Moss of Grambling finished a lob pass with an electric one-handed dunk that tied the game at 47 with 13 minutes left. 

Ultimately, Team Gaines could never quite break through and take command of the game. Team McClendon used an active defense to generate nine steals in the first half as it took a 37-36 lead into the break. Team Gaines then led for nearly the entire second half after Moss briefly tied it with his highlight dunk.

Team McClendon, named in honor of Hall of Fame coach John McClendon, featured players from the MEAC and SIAC and was coached by Norfolk State's Robert Jones. Team Gaines, named in honor of legendary former Winston-Salem State coach Clarence "Big House" Gaines, featured players from the SWAC and CIAA and was coached by Alcorn State's Landon Bussie.