Howard University has made a bold statement in the world of HBCU athletics during the 2025-2026 school year. It’s not just about having a good season; Howard has shown what a thriving athletics department can look like. The Bison captured an impressive ten conference championships across various sports, including track, swimming, golf, basketball, and softball. This kind of success reflects a comprehensive program, rather than relying on the strength of just one team.
Amidst challenges like the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, which have made it harder for HBCUs to keep top talent, Howard has not merely survived; they’ve thrived. For instance, they lost standout player Blake Harper to Creighton but kept pushing forward.
Howard’s diverse success speaks volumes. Their women’s outdoor track team won its fifth consecutive MEAC championship, a feat that showcases their top-notch recruiting and development under Coach David Oliver. The women’s indoor team also repeated as champions. Freshman Alexis Jones shone in cross-country, earning Outstanding Performer honors at the MEAC championship.
Swimming demonstrated Howard’s range as a competitive department. The men’s team clinched their third NEC championship in four years, while the women’s team won the program’s first title ever. Senior Zuilda Nwaeze was named NEC Outstanding Swimmer for two years running. Such achievements highlight that Howard excels not only in the spotlight sports but also in areas traditionally overlooked by HBCUs.
Basketball has been another remarkable platform for Howard. The men’s team made history with a 24-win season, winning their first-ever NCAA Tournament game, while the women’s team achieved a record 26 wins and a No. 14 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Star player Zennia Thomas garnered MEAC Player of the Year honors, enhancing Howard’s visibility in the sports landscape.
Howard’s approach reflects a keen understanding of the current college sports environment. Former NBA star John Wall joined as president of basketball operations to assist with roster management and NIL strategies. Coach Kenneth Blakeney has also made it clear that he sees Howard as a potential stepping stone for athletes looking towards higher-level opportunities.
New football coach Ted White, a former Bison quarterback, also brings a wealth of experience. His role illustrates Howard’s blend of tradition and progress.
Howard’s journey in 2025-2026 sets a benchmark for other HBCUs. They serve as a model for how to win across multiple sports, invest wisely, adapt to NIL impacts, and incorporate professional insights into their programs. While they grapple with the same challenges every HBCU faces — such as funding disparities and roster changes — Howard’s success proves that HBCU athletics can be ambitious and competitive on a national level.
This past year has not just added trophies to their case; it has positioned Howard as a leader among HBCU athletic departments. As Washington D.C. now symbolizes a new standard, other HBCUs must take notice and rise to the challenge.
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