Winter was kind Howard basketball.
Both the men’s and women’s programs filled the new year boasting winning records and renewed confidence.
The men’s team improved to 9-5 and the women’s team to 10-5 – a testament to the depth and growing confidence
Howard men find their identity early
Balance has defined the first two months for coach Kenneth Blakeney’s men. The Bison have combined veteran point guard play with an improved defensive mentality to become one of the MEAC’s most accomplished teams.
Seniors like junior guard Cedric Taylor III stabilize the offense, while the athleticism of graduate guard Bryce Harris (who leads the Bison in scoring at 19.8 points per game) and Cam Gillus add a dynamic and deep guard presence.
Howard’s ability to share the ball also attracted attention. The Bison are among the MEAC conference leaders with 14.5 assists per game, leading to 76.5 points per game, reflecting an offense fueled by movement and confidence.
A balanced non-conference schedule has helped the Bison grow as a unit. After a 2-2 start, Howard has won seven his last 10 games, including a current five-game winning streakNiagara, North Carolina A&T with wins over Drexel, and UNC-Wilmington.
With MEAC play following a road game at Big 10 Northwestern, the Bison look poised to contend for another NCAA Tournament postseason run.
Women showing growth and sophistication
On the women’s side, head coach Ty Grace has relied on experience and defensive toughness to guide her team to a 10-5 start. Forward Zennia Thomas led the offense with 15.5 points per game, including five games with at least 20 points in non-conference games.
In contrast, Zoe Stewart complemented Thomas well, averaging 12.5 points and shooting 37 percent from 3-point range.
is in 13th place Women’s Mid-Major Top 25 pollHoward’s defensive dominance carried the team. The Bison averaged 10 steals per game and 18.1 points per game. It was the key to an impressive victory over P4 Cincinnati
That edge carried the Bison through tight contests and made them the favorites to take the MEAC again.
Bison basketball is rising together
There’s a shared energy around Burr Gymnasium these days — an optimism rooted in effort and culture. With both Howard teams sitting above .500 and showing signs of continued growth, the Bison faithful have reason to believe something special is brewing on both ends.
As January approaches, the challenge for both teams will be turning momentum into consistency. If their start is any indication, the Bison are well on their way.
