NASHVILLE- The experience of going to a Historically Black College and University is special. The pageantry of the bands, Greek organizations and family rings true on every campus.
 
On Monday, October 4th, Tennessee State University took the HBCU experience to another level. More than 10 scouts from the NBA came to the North Nashville campus for Pro Day. The moment was historical for the players and coaches.
 
"Today was a culmination of hard work," said TSU head coach Brian "Penny" Collins. "To put action to the idea of our guys playing in front of NBA scouts is priceless. I can't put this into words. This is why guys come to school here. We put a plan together and it worked. I appreciate everyone coming out."
 
Scouts from the World Champion Milwaukee Bucks, Orlando Magic, Indiana Pacers, and other teams came out to evaluate the talent of players on TSU's roster. They first watched drills. Afterward, they watched two teams played one half of basketball. Scouts were overheard discussing how energetic, talented, and athletic the men of TSU are.
 
"That's just who we are," said Collins. "We want the guys to have energy. We want them to have fun and remember this experience. What they did today is what they do every day. They just have to continue on this path."

The team had its first official practice on September 28th. No plays were run during the hour and a half long showcase, so individuals could show off their talent. Freshman Hercy Miller says he didn't waste a second showing the scouts his best.
 
"Today we made history," said Miller. "The team came out and we did our things. The coaches putting this together was cool. It was a blessing. This was an opportunity because of the hard work that we put in."
 
A blessing was how junior Carlos Marshall also described Pro Day. Marshall was the leading scorer on the team two years ago, but a hip injury sidelined him last season. Marshall is now 100 percent and ready for the upcoming season.
 
"That's why we are here,' said Collins. "We are in the business to service our student-athletes. When they are happy, then I'm happy. To see guys like Carlos Marshall, who has been with me for four years blossom and get this opportunity was great. He has worked hard to get back. For students to see that you can get opportunities like this by coming to Tennessee State is a dream come true."