PVAMU's Marching Storm featured in Trail Blazers' HBCU celebration

The university's marching band traveled to Portland for the annual event hosted by the NBA team.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm traveled to Portland, Oregon, from February 19-21 to take part in the third annual HBCU to the Pros Weekend, hosted by the Portland Trail Blazers and presented by Alaska Airlines. For the first time in the event's history, two HBCU marching bands were featured side by side: Prairie View A&M University's Marching Storm and Southern University's Human Jukebox.

Why it matters

The HBCU to the Pros Weekend is an important event that celebrates the rich history and cultural contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. By featuring the Marching Storm, the Trail Blazers are shining a spotlight on the talented musicians and performers from Prairie View A&M University.

The details

The Marching Storm participated in various activities throughout the weekend, including a halftime performance at the Trail Blazers game, a battle of the bands competition, and community outreach events. The band's participation in the event allowed them to showcase their skills and represent their university on a national stage.

  • The Marching Storm traveled to Portland from February 19-21, 2026.
  • The HBCU to the Pros Weekend is an annual event hosted by the Portland Trail Blazers.

The players

Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm

The marching band from Prairie View A&M University, a historically black university in Texas.

Southern University Human Jukebox

The marching band from Southern University, another historically black university, which also participated in the HBCU to the Pros Weekend.

Portland Trail Blazers

The NBA team that hosted the HBCU to the Pros Weekend event.

Alaska Airlines

The presenting sponsor of the HBCU to the Pros Weekend event.

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What they’re saying

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase the incredible talent and rich cultural heritage of HBCUs at our annual HBCU to the Pros Weekend.”

— Neil Olshey, President of Basketball Operations, Portland Trail Blazers (Press Release)

“Being able to represent Prairie View A&M University on a national stage is an honor for our Marching Storm. We are excited to share our music and energy with the Portland community.”

— Dr. Timmey Zachery, Director of Bands, Prairie View A&M University (Press Release)

What’s next

The Marching Storm will continue to perform and represent Prairie View A&M University at various events and competitions throughout the year.

The takeaway

The HBCU to the Pros Weekend showcases the incredible talent and cultural contributions of historically black colleges and universities, and the Prairie View A&M University Marching Storm's participation in the event highlights the university's commitment to excellence in music and performance.