The finalists for ESPN’s 2025 Red Lobster Band of the Year have officially been selected, and four powerhouse HBCU programs will take center stage in Atlanta on December 12th as they battle for the national championship. This year’s competition-rooted in excellence, tradition, and the unmatched musical pageantry of the HBCU band world—has been the most competitive season yet. Representing the pinnacle of HBCU marching culture, the bands moving forward embody the precision, pageantry, and passion that define the spirit of every HBCU campus.This year’s finalists span both divisions and include two reigning champions looking to defend their crowns. In Division II, Fayetteville State University and Miles College—the 2024 champion—advance to Atlanta after impressive seasons. In Division I, Southern University and Florida A&M University (FAMU)—the returning national champion—have earned their place in the final showdown.Each of the four programs has navigated a season filled with national showcases, high-profile performances, and fierce competition from dozens of other HBCU bands. The result: a championship field that represents the very best of the HBCU marching tradition.
