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ORANGEBURG, SC - Claflin University held one of the most successful events of the year with the Women's Brunch featuring NBA Moms, Saturday morning. The event, which was a part of the inaugural PAWS Up HBCU Classic, was a smashing success. "To see it up close and personal was overwhelming," said Claflin University Director of Athletics Tony O'Neal. In addition to being sold out, the event was a showcase for the Orangeburg community and provided an opportunity to recognize three dynamic women for the accomplishments and their contributions.
 
The highlight of the event was the recognition of three dynamic women, Lucille O'Neal, the mother of Hall of Famer and former NBA superstar Shaquille O'Neal, Michelle Carter, the mother of former NBA superstar Vince Carter, and Jamie Morant, the mother of current NBA superstar Ja Morant. "Everybody jumps when they say their sons' names, but their sons wouldn't be who they are today, if it weren't for those strong mamas," O'Neal added.
 
In addition, the contributions to the lives of their sons, these women were recognized for their magnificent works in the community. Most recently, Dr. O'Neal was appointed as a Board Member of Orlando's Ovarian Cancer Alliance and a member of MD Anderson's Council of Governors. She also co-founded the Mothers of Professional Basketball Players (MPBP), an organization created to support the mothers whose sons and daughters are currently playing or had played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). She has also led numerous charitable events and organizations as well. She is also the author of Walk Like You Have Somewhere to Go: My Journey from Mental Welfare to Mental Health. Most recently, Michelle Carter was named the 2021 Chair of the Halifax Health Foundation Board of Directors. The title was one more in a prestigious career for Carter, who is graduate of Bethune-Cookman University and holds a Master of Science degree in Administration & Supervision from Nova University. She also recently received an honorary Doctor of Business Administration from Bethune-Cookman University.  She also served as a teacher in the Volusia County School system for 21 years, where she received the Ida S. Baker Outstanding Minority Educator Award. She was also received the Daytona Regional Chamber's top award, the "Glenn Ritchey Leadership Award." The event held a special place for Jamie Morant, who is a graduate of Claflin University.
 
In addition to honoring the stellar group of women for their efforts and accomplishments, the event also served as a showcase for both Claflin University and the Orangeburg, South Carolina community. "This event has given people the opportunity to see Claflin University for what it is," O'Neal said. "A beautiful and pristine environment with a great athletic program." The brunch was held at the newly built conference center at the Orangeburg County Public Library.