The 2025 tournament marked a historic milestone with the inclusion of student-athletes from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), featuring two teams composed of players from eight HBCUs and coaches representing four institutions. In 2026, Morgan State University joined a mixed HBCU team representing multiple schools for an outstanding week of international competition against the Botswana National Women’s Team and the Zambia National Women’s Team. Morgan State went on to capture the championship, with the mixed HBCU team finishing in 2nd place. In 2027, the Ditsala International Cup will take another major step forward: for the first time, an HBCU men’s team will compete alongside an HBCU women’s team, and a Team BIP women’s team will return to the tournament. Together, these teams will expand opportunities for collegiate athletes to compete internationally, experience Botswana, and represent their universities on a global stage.

After participating in the 2025 tournament, Team BIP will return to the Ditsala International Cup in 2027 with one team of collegiate players from across the United States. The returning squad will continue Team BIP’s mission of combining high-level volleyball with international travel, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to help Grow the Game.