TSU Delays Inaugural Ice Hockey Season That Would Have Made HBCU History

Tennessee State University has postponed the launch of its men’s ice hockey program — a team that would have marked the first of its kind at an HBCU. Originally set to debut in the 2025–26 season, the inaugural puck drop is now planned for 2026–27.

TSU first announced the creation of the program in June 2023 and introduced Duanté Abercrombie as head coach the following year.

“Duanté Abercrombie’s appointment as TSU’s head coach of hockey is a testament to our dedication to breaking barriers,” TSU President Glenda Glover said in a 2024 press release. “We recognize the profound significance of bringing hockey to an HBCU and providing our students with unparalleled opportunities that will enrich their college experience. This bold move builds upon the TSU legacy… with a continued commitment to excellence.”

Glover also expressed plans to broaden TSU athletics to include baseball, women’s soccer, and women’s swimming and diving between 2025 and 2028.

No roster or official schedule has been posted on the team’s website.

Why the delay?
The program fell short of its fundraising target for the 2025–26 season. The lack of a clear plan for practice facilities, coupled with TSU’s broader financial challenges, also played a role.

When Interim President Dwyane Tucker took office in December 2024, he warned that TSU would run out of funds by spring without major changes. In February, he proposed a five-year plan to state leaders, securing a $96 million deal. It remains unclear whether any of that funding will be directed toward athletics.