The stage is set for an electrifying showdown in tonight's ESPN's HBCU Band of the Year (BOTY) competition as four of the nation's premier marching bands prepare to take the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta for the second annual event.
The FAMU Marching 100 will take on the reigning Division I Band of the Year the North Carolina A&T Blue and Gold Marching Machine. While the Virginia State Trojan Explosion will take on the Miles College Purple Marching Machine in the Division II competition.
The four bands were meticulously selected through a combination of committee evaluations and a fan-based ranking system that was updated weekly throughout the 2024 football season. The top two bands from each division in the final weekly rankings earned the prestigious opportunity to perform in Atlanta.
For those unable to attend in person, the event will be streamed live exclusively on ESPN+.
Event Details
Date: Friday, December 13, 2024
Time: 7 p.m. ET | 6 p.m. CT
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
As the bands prepare to showcase their talent, precision, and spirit, the competition promises to be a thrilling event that celebrates the rich tradition and excellence of HBCU marching bands. Stay tuned to ESPN+ to witness history in the making as the 2024 HBCU Band of the Year is crowned.