Howard University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams made headlines by winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Tournament on March 14. This achievement is a first for the school, as both teams earned spots in the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournaments.
The women’s team achieved a remarkable milestone as a No. 14 seed, the highest ranking ever for a Bison basketball team. They’ll face off against No. 3 seed Ohio State on March 21 in Columbus, Ohio, with the game airing on ESPN2. Meanwhile, the men’s team, a No. 16 seed, will compete against UMBC in a play-in game, scheduled for March 17 at 6:40 p.m. on TruTV.
Both teams secured their tournament spots through stellar performances in the MEAC Tournament. The men’s team defeated South Carolina State 78-61 and then North Carolina Central 70-63 to claim their title. The women’s team triumphed over South Carolina State (75-43) and Coppin State (65-50), finishing with a 53-46 victory against Norfolk State.
This success reflects a strong regular season for both teams, who each finished with over 20 wins. Howard University’s athletic programs have been on an upward trend, and their recent wins have increased their visibility in the national arena.
University leaders expressed pride in the student-athletes and coaching staff for their dedication. Kery Davis, vice president of Athletics, emphasized the discipline and teamwork displayed throughout the season, making the Howard community proud.
In the days leading up to the tournament, both teams received several accolades. The men’s team saw Bryce Harris named MEAC Player of the Year, while Cedric Taylor III also earned recognition as both the MEAC Defensive Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year. Other team members were honored with spots on the All-MEAC teams, highlighting their standout performances.
On the women’s side, Zennia Thomas earned MEAC Player of the Year honors, and head coach Ty Grace was named MEAC Coach of the Year. Freshman guard Ariella Henigan also made waves by winning the Rookie of the Year award, signifying the depth of talent in the program.
This historic achievement isn’t just about championships; it shows how far Bison athletics have come. With both teams representing Howard on a national stage, the excitement surrounding their journey is palpable. The dual championships mark a pivotal moment for the university, demonstrating resilience and growth in both basketball programs.
As they prepare for the NCAA Tournament, the Bison embody the spirit of determination that defines Howard University. It’s a thrilling time for students, alumni, and fans, who are all rallying behind their teams in anticipation of what lies ahead.
For more on the NCAA Tournament structure and statistics, you can look at NCAA’s official site.
This event captures the essence of college basketball, where hard work, teamwork, and a little bit of magic can lead to unforgettable moments. The Bison stand as a testament to that, and the whole community is eager to support them in their quest for glory.
