By james art Charlotte, North Carolina – As Week Eight of CIAA football approaches, the HBCU gridiron action is heating up as teams battle it out for a spot among the conference’s elite. This week, the spotlight will shine on the matchup between undefeated Johnson C. Smith University, which currently leads the conference, and Winston-Salem State, which is just a game back in third place. Kickoff is set for Saturday, October 26 at 1:00 p.m., promising an exciting clash between two powerhouse HBCUs.
But beyond the high stakes of this match, the game has special meaning for twin brothers Ibrahim and Mohamed Meite, who will be facing each other for the first time. Born in Greensboro, North Carolina, with roots in the Ivory Coast, the Meite brothers grew up close, but their friendly rivalry only strengthened their bond, their sister Coco Lombeko told the CIAA. “The boys have always been close – they’re twins! But they are also fiercely competitive and playing against each other is a dream,” she shared.
Muhammad, a senior offensive lineman at Winston-Salem State, joined the Rams this season. His decision to join WSSU came after a pivotal moment when he received a call from Coach Holmes with an offer. “He felt it was a sign,” Lombeko explained. “Muhammad was going through a difficult time, and Winston-Salem State, a place he had admired since childhood, became the beacon he needed.”
Meanwhile, Ibrahim, a four-year veteran at Johnson C. Smith, has embraced the opportunities offered by HBCU life in the city of Charlotte. Lombeko added, “Ibrahim chose JCSU because of the vibrant city life and unique opportunities that come with attending an HBCU like Johnson C. Smith.”
The game will be a family affair, with relatives including their father and sister cheering them on and capturing the moment live for loved ones who can’t attend.
Don’t miss the action on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 1:00 p.m., when Johnson C. Smith and Winston-Salem State go head-to-head in what promises to be an unforgettable HBCU matchup.