YOU HAVE TO BE TWICE AS GOOD: Academic Motivation and Athletic Identity of Black Men at a PWI.

This study explores the lived experiences of Black male student-athletes engaged in sports at a Power Five Division I predominantly white institution (PWI). By centering these individuals' voices, we aim to uncover valuable insights into their academic motivation and athletic identity across both revenue-generating and non-revenue-generating sports. Guided by Yosso’s (2005) Community Cultural Wealth (CCW) Framework and Woodson's (1933) "The Mis-Education of the Negro," the research examines how community influences shape the academic motivation and identity development of Black men and influence their drive to excel in academics or sports at the collegiate level. Through numerical data and the narratives of Black male student-athletes, the study provides targeted suggestions to enhance the support of this group. The results will enrich existing literature and guide campus stakeholders in understanding Black male student-athletes beyond the surface level, supporting their development and success beyond athletic ability, both on and off the field.