The interim head basketball coach at one of the nation’s oldest Historically Black Colleges didn’t start his career on the court. In fact, Jason Armstrong played an important role in hip-hop history long before taking on the Lincoln Lions, writes Mac Johnson for The Philadelphia Tribune. 

After graduating from the University of the District of Columbia, Armstrong accepted a position at BET to work on the show Rap City. It wasn’t until 2006 that he began his coaching journey. From coaching at his alma mater La Salle Academy High School to being the assistant coach and director of recruiting at Dominican College, Armstrong was able to win championships at every level.  

But with new roles come new challenges, and Armstrong is working hard to prove himself as a coach this year.  

“…We lost our player of the year, we lost our coach of the year, and we lost our best shooter,” said Armstrong who wants to be on the team full time. “It’s all about next man up.” 

His laser-sharp focused practices and committed players prove that they want to become a better team. 

“We show up every day and practice hard because we’re not satisfied,” said freshman guard Freddie Young Jr. 

The 15 team members take pride in their blue and orange uniforms on Lincoln University’s campus, catching attention from other students and even the lunch ladies.  

“The campus isn’t too big, people show love back to us. That love translates onto the court,” said Young. 

Read more about the Chester County HBCU basketball time in The Philadelphia Tribune.