A&T Student Claims Second Madden NFL Tournament Title at Pro Bowl Games

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (March 20, 2024) – A North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University student took home the Madden NFL Tournament Title during the fourth annual EA SPORTS™ Madden NFL 24 x HBCU Tournament.

DaSean Wade Neclos, a fifth-year student majoring in computer science, won in the men's bracket of the 2024 Pro Bowl Games held in Orlando, Florida. Eight HBCU students participated in this NFL  competition throughout the week-long program, engaging the business side of gaming and sports. 

This was Neclos’ third time participating in the tournament, following his previous involvement in two Super Bowl editions. As a representative of New York’s Buffalo Bills, Neclos secured a 28-22 victory, earning his second consecutive tournament title.

“It holds significant meaning because I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to compete if I hadn’t attended an HBCU,” said Neclos. “Moreover, I deeply appreciate the chance to contribute to the NFL’s dedication to equity, diversity and inclusion.”

Hear Neclos talk about his experience at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZHhXuzbVNg

The tournament, hosted by NFL icons Ahman Green and DeSean Jackson, alongside ESPN commentator Tiffany Green, showcased prizes and support from the NFL’s official partners.

Neclos competed against a fellow HBCU student from Tennessee State University and NFL veteran Ahman Green. The event concluded with a show match featuring Neclos and Jackson, representing the Kansas City Chiefs, resulting in a final score of 51-37.

The purpose of the NFL’s HBCU initiative is to support professional pathways and educational opportunities in football and the wider sports industry. Students had the opportunity to participate in an NFL “experienceship,” which included job shadowing with NFL executives, meeting EA executives responsible for the popular Madden NFL video game franchises, touring Camping World Stadium, attending a special Disney on the Yard activation and interacting with NFL players at the Pro Bowl Games event.

Neclos’ passion for Madden Football traces back to his childhood, having begun playing about age 10. Since then, his commitment to the game has grown stronger.

Neclos believes this opportunity is significant, as it is hosted by the NFL to raise greater awareness for HBCUs and encourage more people to attend and support them. While esports are not yet big in the HBCU community, they are starting to grow. These events show people how to turn their hobby into a source of income, which holds great value for students – especially those who cannot afford college.