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�Ǹ���� School of Law’s Black Law Student Association (BLSA) Mock Trial team program reached a new milestone at the 2025 Constance Baker Motley National Mock Trial Competition. For the first time in this program's history, two teams advanced to the national stage, an unprecedented achievement that reflects the depth, preparation, and talent of this year’s competitors. One of those teams went on to finish as the National Runner-Up after a series of standout performances, winning four out of their five rounds. 

The championship team (2Ls Lydia Abraham and Jordyn Dawson, and 3Ls Obasi Ndukwe and Yannina Sharpley-Travis) stormed through the national competition composed of 15 elite teams. The Defense team of Ndukwe and Sharpley-Travis opened the tournament with a victory over Southern University, while the Prosecution team of Abraham and Dawson followed up with a win against Texas Law. In the elimination rounds, the Defense team carried the baton, advancing to the quarterfinals with a decisive win over the University of Alabama, then defeating UCLA in a hard-fought semifinal. In the final round, they once again represented the Defense against Texas Law in a gripping championship match, ultimately finishing as National Runner-Up.

This year also marked a milestone for the program’s depth and talent: after placing first and third at the regional level, both Case Western Reserve teams earned their spots at nationals. The second team (2Ls Caren Teague, Angelina Booher, Karthi Srikanth and Mykilah Lewis) competed with heart, passion and resilience, leaving it all on the courtroom floor.

“This achievement is a testament to the countless hours our team poured into preparation,” said Dawson. “From late nights to early mornings, we worked tirelessly to perfect our case theory and build our advocacy skills. The growth we’ve experienced together has been extraordinary.”

Beyond the courtroom, the success of the BLSA Mock Trial program reflects a broader collective effort. The full Mock Trial class, including 2Ls Raheal Neequaye and Iris Rodriguez, played a crucial role, assisting as witnesses, conducting legal research and offering strategic support. Together, the team has forged a powerful sense of camaraderie and sharpened their advocacy through collaboration.

“This historic run would not have been possible without the tireless dedication of our coaches, Professor Diane Russell and Russell Tye,” said the BLSA Mock Trial team. “Their mentorship, passion for advocacy and unwavering support shaped us not just into better competitors but into better advocates and future attorneys. As a team, we are endlessly grateful for their guidance, wisdom and belief in our potential every step of the way.”