Hampton Pirates Edge ODU in Exhibition Thriller

Get ready for an exciting season! The Hampton University Pirates kicked off their basketball journey with a thrilling 82-79 exhibition win against their crosstown rivals, Old Dominion University (ODU). This hard-fought victory, played in front of an electric crowd at Chartway Arena, sets a positive tone for the Pirates under new leadership and fresh expectations.

Pirates Dominate the First Half

From the get-go, Hampton came out firing. They controlled much of the first half with impressive shooting, hitting nearly 58 percent of their field goals and building a double-digit lead early on. By halftime, the Pirates held a solid 41-32 advantage, showcasing a cohesive and disciplined performance. Key players like Jalyke Gaines-Wyatt and Xzavier Long demonstrated strong chemistry, a testament to their preseason training.

Hampton’s bench depth also proved crucial, with reserves contributing significantly to their early scoring. This is a very promising sign for a roster looking to make a deep run in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) season.

ODU’s Rally Falls Short

Old Dominion, competing in the Sun Belt Conference, fought back valiantly in the second half. The Monarchs managed to cut Hampton’s lead down to just three points in the closing minutes. However, the Pirates demonstrated remarkable composure under pressure. They sealed the victory by making five of their last six free throws and tightening their defense to shut down ODU’s comeback attempt.

The Pirates “made the right plays at the right time.” — Mike Jones, ODU Head Coach

Even in defeat, ODU’s head coach Mike Jones acknowledged Hampton’s resilience and execution, giving credit where it was due.

Leadership and Depth Shine Through

This exhibition win wasn’t just a team effort; it was a showcase of strong leadership. Junior guard Jalyke Gaines-Wyatt led all scorers with 18 points, while senior forward Xzavier Long delivered a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds. Transfer Christian Watson also made a significant impact with 12 points, proving his value as a two-way player. Head Coach Ivan Thomas, in his first full season, highlighted the importance of the team’s depth and defensive focus throughout the game.

This victory over a Division I program like ODU is a significant indicator of Hampton’s potential for the 2025-26 season. Following their first winning season in five years last year, this exhibition result suggests the program is continuing its upward trajectory. The blend of veteran experience and youthful energy could be the recipe for success in conference play.

A Statement for HBCU Basketball

Beyond the scoreboard, this win represents the pride and potential inherent in HBCU sports. Beating a regional rival like ODU not only boosts Hampton’s standing but also reinforces the competitive spirit of HBCU programs on a larger stage. It’s a testament to the heart, hustle, and heritage that drive these athletes and programs forward.