Texas Southern University Debate Team Dominates Early Season as Road to Athens 2026 Begins

The Texas Southern University Debate Team is proving once again why it stands among the best in the nation. Following the university’s Giving Day campaign launch in support of the team’s journey to Athens, Greece, the team continued its winning streak with an outstanding performance at the Border Wars Swing Tournament in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

The team opened the semester with a thrilling victory at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska, earning First Place Sweepstakes in their first tournament of the year. 

Sixteen students competed, including six freshmen, all contributing to the team’s strong start. Team President Hanson Nwole delivered a standout performance, earning Top Speaker in Debate and first place in Program of Oral Interpretation, among other awards.

At Border Wars, the Texas Southern University Debate Team captured 30 awards, including 1st Place in Debate, 1st Place in Individual Events, and the highly coveted Overall Sweepstakes Championship. This achievement solidifies the team’s dominance in collegiate forensics and reinforces its readiness to defend its international title at the 35th International Forensics Association Tournament in Athens, Greece, in March 2026.

“Our students have been truly outstanding this season,” said Head Coach Dr. Gloria Batiste-Roberts. “Their dedication, focus, and teamwork continue to raise the bar for excellence at Texas Southern University. The support of our Assistant Coaches — all proud Texas Southern University Debate alumni, Sondera Malery, Trendi Nguyen, and Jordan Williams — has been exceptional. We’re proud to represent Texas Southern University on every stage, from local tournaments to the global arena.”

Texas Southern University’s Giving Day campaign continues to raise essential funds to help cover travel, lodging, and tournament expenses as the team prepares for its international competition. 

This Giving Tuesday, December 2, 2025, join the university community in supporting these extraordinary students. You can donate here.

At Texas Southern University, every contribution makes a meaningful impact, helping the team represent the university with intellect, integrity, and pride and build unstoppable momentum toward Athens 2026.

Stay up to date on the Texas Southern University Debate Team competitions and achievements on Instagram.