Good for the Delaware State Hornets to pursue an in-state rivalry with the University of Delaware. Even if the Blue Hens and their fans fight it, it’s important for HBCUs to establish those regional rivalries for recruiting and media coverage.
But should it really have been this tough for DSU and UD to organize the first game between the two schools in nine years?
The Hornets won the historic first meeting, played in an electric atmosphere inside the Delaware Field House, in what would, nonetheless, become the most successful season in UD history. It culminated in a 27-4 record and the school’s first NCAA Tournament bid.
Delaware won the next eight, and none of the last five were close. There was hardly a peep when, in David Henderson’s second year as Delaware coach, the Hornets were no longer on the UD schedule. Efforts by DSU to keep it going were rejected.
Even if UD thought that the match-up wasn’t competitive, it’s not like the game wouldn’t sell tickets or attract media attention. Bad enough that football can’t get it together on a regular basis, but basketball? Seriously?
It’s a win-win for both programs to have this as an annual staple on the schedule, and it’s sure to enhance the profile of both basketball programs.
