- Coca-Cola Continues 44-Year Tradition of Recognizing Athletic Achievement -

(BLACK PR WIRE) – CHARLOTTE (March 7, 2011) – Shaw University’s Raheem Smith receives the prestigious 2011 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Tournament MVP award, presented by Coke ZERO, Saturday night at the Time Warner Cable Arena in Charlotte. Smith was recognized for his superior performance and unparalleled leadership on the court during the men’s tournament. The point guard scored 28 points including two free throws with 2.3 seconds left in the game giving Shaw a 72-69 lead over Livingstone College. He is a native of Greenville, N.C., and a senior. Hip hop artist J. Cole joined Seth Freeman, senior brand manager for Coca-Cola North America to present the trophy.

Coca-Cola is the longest standing corporate partner of the CIAA, with a relationship dating back 44 years. Coke ZERO was the official soft drink of the 2011 CIAA Tournament.