Bookie Gates Shares Vision Behind HBCU Seattle Series on Good Day Seattle
As excitement builds for the upcoming HBCU Seattle Series, Bookie Gates, Founder and President of Baseball Beyond Borders, stopped by Good Day Seattle to talk about the importance of bringing Historically Black Colleges and Universities to the Pacific Northwest — and why the culminating game on March 8 at T-Mobile Park is such a big moment for the region.
During the segment, Gates explained that the HBCU Seattle Series is about more than just baseball. It’s about access, opportunity, and representation — especially for youth who may not realize that HBCU baseball and softball programs are viable, competitive pathways. “We get caught in the bubble of Power Five schools,” Gates shared, “and don’t always recognize that HBCUs offer incredible opportunities, both athletically and academically.”
This year’s series features Jackson State University taking on Seattle University, with games leading up to a historic final matchup inside T-Mobile Park. Gates noted that the idea for the series grew out of the 2023 MLB All-Star Week in Seattle, when the inaugural HBCU Swingman Classic — inspired by the legacy of Ken Griffey Jr. — drew an overwhelming response from the community. “That moment showed us that people wanted more HBCU experiences here,” Gates said. “So we answered the call.”
Gates emphasized that the series is designed to serve as a blueprint — one that builds pipelines for local student-athletes and reshapes how young people see their futures. When kids see Jackson State competing on a Major League field, he explained, it expands what they believe is possible for themselves.
The segment concluded with a clear call to action: Gates encouraged the community to come out on Sunday, March 8, support both teams, and be part of a moment that blends sport, culture, and opportunity. Tickets for the game are available through Baseball Beyond Borders, and organizers hope to fill the stands with families, students, and supporters from across the region.
Get Your Tickets
Tickets for the game at T-Mobile Park are on sale now at goseattleu.com/tickets. Those interested in group tickets can contact the Seattle U Athletics ticket office at seattleutickets@seattleu.edu or 206-398-GOSU. Additional information on surrounding festivities will be announced soon.
Back2Besa airs Saturdays at 10:30 PM on FOX 13 Seattle, with replays Sundays on FOX 13+ at 10 am and 8pm.
