By TSU Athletics
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (TSU News Service) – PBS premiered Allergic To Failure: The Robert Covington Story nationwide beginning Feb 2 across more than 30 television markets, highlighting the remarkable path of former Tennessee State University star Robert Covington from an HBCU campus to a 12-year NBA career.
The documentary aired at 9 p.m. ET, 7 and 8 p.m. CT, and beginning at 6 p.m. PT, and will continue broadcasting nationwide through Feb. 28. The film will also be available on PBS On Demand.
Produced by 10th Collective, the documentary follows the Chicago-born Covington’s journey defined by perseverance – from a devastating injury between his junior and senior seasons at Tennessee State that nearly ended his career, to going undrafted, and ultimately signing a record-breaking contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. Now a veteran of five NBA franchises, Covington navigates free agency, fatherhood and the responsibility of possibly being the last active NBA player from an HBCU.
The project arrives during PBS HBCU Week and Black History Month, exploring broader themes of opportunity, representation and the cultural impact of historically Black colleges and universities within professional sports.
The film features interviews and perspectives from prominent voices across basketball and media, including NBA stars Karl-Anthony Towns, Damian Lillard and Joel Embiid; former NBA player Antoine Walker; HBCU/NBA alumni Kyle O’Quinn and Hall of Famer Bob Dandridge; Hall of Famer Dwyane Wade; HBCU coaches Kenny Blakeney and Kevin Broadus; and former HBCU coach Brian “Penny” Collins. Media personalities Michael Wilbon, Stan Verrett and Taylor Rooks, along with journalists David Aldridge and Michael Lee, provide context on the relationship between the NBA and HBCUs.
Through intimate moments with family and friends, Allergic To Failure presents a personal portrait of resilience while examining the evolving role of HBCUs in producing professional athletes.
Fans and supporters are encouraged to watch and share the documentary on social media using #PBS #HBCU #NBA #AllergicToFailure and tagging @atf_33, @PBS, @MarylandPublicTV and @10thCollective.
About Tennessee State University
Founded in 1912, Tennessee State University is Nashville’s only public land-grant university offering 41 bachelor’s degrees, 15 graduate certificates, 27 master’s degrees, and nine doctoral degrees. TSU’s campus spans 500 acres. The university is committed to academic excellence, providing students with a quality education in a nurturing and innovative environment that prepares them as alumni to be global leaders. Visit tnstate.edu for more details.
