From Athlete to Entrepreneur, Bowie State Alum Turns Passion into Business Success

Kelley Builds a Lasting Legacy in Sports and Luxury Wine

MEDIA CONTACT: media@bowiestate.edu

(BOWIE, Md.)—Bowie State University graduate Brian Kelley ('17) is making his mark as a serial entrepreneur leading High-Level Sports Management, the Mid-Atlantic Basketball Classic (MABC), and the luxury wine brand Imperial 94 punctuating the lasting impact of HBCUs have in fostering innovation, leadership and community-driven success. 

Kelley transferred to Bowie State for his senior year after beginning his higher education journey at Norfolk State University. With family ties to Bowie State, his decision was both personal and professional. He graduated in 2017 with a degree in communications, using his background in basketball and media to launch High-Level Sports Management, a company focused on guiding young athletes toward long-term success. 

Through High-Level Sports Management, Kelley created the Mid-Atlantic Basketball Classic, a premier high school tournament that provides student-athletes with exposure to college scouts and media.  

“The biggest challenge for players today is the transfer portal limiting traditional recruiting,” Kelley explained. “We help them get noticed and build their personal brand.” His dedication to supporting student-athletes extends beyond the court, ensuring they have the resources to succeed long term.” 

In 2019, Kelley expanded into the luxury beverage industry with the launch of Imperial 94, a wine brand that blends sophistication with culture. With its pink rosé selling out twice, the brand has quickly gained recognition, solidifying Kelley as one of Maryland’s youngest Black wine owners. 

“Imperial means royalty, and 94 represents my birth year,” said Kelley. “Our goal is to make every consumer feel like they’re experiencing something elite.” 

Balancing two industries, Kelley credits his success to strategic planning and a strong support system. “I focus on high school basketball during the season, while Imperial 94 operates year-round,” he said. “Having a reliable team is crucial,” he said. Through his businesses, Kelley continues to uplift his community, mentor young entrepreneurs, and reinforce the legacy of excellence at Bowie State University.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. Bowie State has earned the ‘Research College and University’ designation in the 2025 Carnegie Research Activity Classification. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.