ESPN’s “First Take” Brings National Spotlight To Virginia State University During Live Broadcast

Signature ESPN show will broadcast live on Homecoming Friday, giving VSU a national platform to showcase its Greater legacy, culture, and impact.

Virginia State University will become the center of the national sports and culture conversation on Friday, October 9, when ESPN’s acclaimed morning show, First Take, broadcasts live from The Hill as part of its annual HBCU Tour.

Featuring ESPN commentator and executive producer Stephen A. Smith and host Shae Cornette, the nationally televised broadcast will coincide with Virginia State University’s Homecoming celebration, giving millions of viewers across the country an opportunity to experience the pride, excellence, tradition, and culture that define one of America’s leading historically Black colleges and universities.

As thousands of alumni, students, faculty, staff, and supporters return to campus for Homecoming, the live broadcast will showcase Virginia State University on one of sports media’s most visible platforms, highlighting the University’s more than 140-year legacy of leadership, achievement, and impact.

Since launching in 2019, ESPN’s First Take HBCU Tour has traveled to select campuses and marquee events across the nation, celebrating the rich traditions and contributions of historically Black colleges and universities. The stop at Virginia State University represents a powerful opportunity to share the University’s story, elevate its national profile, and introduce audiences across the country to the spirit and momentum behind the institution’s Greater Happens Here vision.

First Take airs weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on ESPN. Additional details regarding the October 9 live broadcast, including location and attendance information, will be announced in the coming weeks.