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“HBCU Football Week 0 & Week 1: Pre-Game Hype and Key Matchups”

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Introduction:

As the 2024 HBCU football season kicks off, Week 0 and Week 1 bring us a host of exciting matchups across all conferences, including the MEAC, SWAC, CIAA, SIAC, and the newly rebranded HBCU Athletic Conference (formerly Gulf Coast Conference). From historic rivalries to key non-conference tests, these early-season games set the tone for what promises to be an electrifying season.


Week 0: Setting the Stage

Week 0 gives us a sneak peek into the upcoming season with a handful of games that will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for what’s to come. Key games to watch include:

  • UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves (08-29-2024): Alcorn State faces a tough test against UAB, a team known for its formidable defense.
  • Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison (08-29-2024): Howard hits the road to take on Rutgers in a game that could showcase the Bison’s potential this season.

Week 1: Full Slate of Action

Week 1 ramps up the excitement with a full slate of games. Every HBCU football fan will have something to cheer for with several high-profile matchups:

  • Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies (08-30-2024): North Carolina A&T aims to prove they can compete with Power 5 schools.
  • Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions (08-31-2024): The Golden Lions have a chance to make a statement against an SEC opponent.

Pre-Game Summaries: What to Expect

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect from each game:

  • Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams (08-31-2024): A CIAA battle that promises to be a defensive struggle.
  • Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles (09-07-2024): This matchup could be a preview of a future playoff clash, with both teams eyeing conference titles.

Game to Watch: Prairie View A&M vs. Texas Southern

One of the most anticipated games of Week 1 is the SWAC showdown between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern. This rivalry game is always intense, and with both teams hungry for a strong start, expect fireworks on the field.


Conclusion: The Road Ahead

The early weeks of the 2024 season are crucial for establishing momentum. Whether it’s a powerhouse program defending its title or an underdog looking to upset the big boys, every game counts. HBCU football is more than just a game; it’s a tradition, a culture, and a community. Let’s get ready for a season to remember!


Share Your Thoughts:

Which games are you most excited about? Drop your predictions in the comments and join the conversation as we celebrate the kickoff of another thrilling HBCU football season!

#HBCUFootball #Week0 #Week1 #GameDay #SWAC #MEAC #CIAA #SIAC #GamedayVibes


This post provides a comprehensive overview of the key matchups, offering insights into what fans can expect as they gear up for the 2024 HBCU football season. It’s crafted to engage your audience and spark conversation as the season unfolds.

GAMES TO WATCH OUT FOR++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

1. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves

Date: August 29, 2024

Summary:
UAB, coming off a solid 2023 season in Conference USA, will open their 2024 campaign at home against Alcorn State. The Blazers are known for their stout defense, which ranked in the top 25 nationally last season. Alcorn State, representing the SWAC, is looking to build on its previous success and make a statement against an FBS opponent. The Braves’ dynamic offense, led by their dual-threat quarterback, will be key to their chances of pulling off an upset.

2. Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies

Date: August 30, 2024

Summary:
Wake Forest, a team known for its fast-paced offense in the ACC, faces off against North Carolina A&T, a perennial powerhouse in the MEAC. The Aggies have a strong history of upsets against FBS teams and will be looking to showcase their talent on a bigger stage. With a solid defensive line and a capable running game, North Carolina A&T hopes to slow down the Demon Deacons and control the clock.

3. Arkansas Razorbacks vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions

Date: August 31, 2024

Summary:
In a battle of in-state rivals, Arkansas will host Arkansas-Pine Bluff. The Razorbacks, competing in the SEC, are looking to start their season with a dominant performance. Pine Bluff, however, will not be easily intimidated. As one of the top programs in the SWAC, they have the potential to make things difficult, especially if their defense can force turnovers and keep the game close.

4. Bluefield State Big Blues vs. Winston-Salem State Rams

Date: August 31, 2024

Summary:
Bluefield State, an independent DII program, will face off against Winston-Salem State from the CIAA. This matchup pits two teams looking to start the season strong. Winston-Salem State, with its storied football tradition, is favored, but Bluefield State’s up-and-coming program could surprise many. Key to the game will be the Rams’ ability to establish their running game early.

5. South Florida Bulls vs. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats

Date: September 1, 2024

Summary:
South Florida will kick off their season by hosting Bethune-Cookman from the SWAC. The Bulls, part of the AAC, have been rebuilding and are looking to regain their competitive edg

e. Bethune-Cookman, meanwhile, will aim to capita

lize on any early-season rust from their FBS oppon

ent. The Wildcats’ success will likely hinge on their ability to execute on special teams and create big plays.

6. Alabama State Hornets vs. North Carolina Central Eagles

Date: September 7, 2024

Summary:
Alabama State takes on North Carolina Central in what promises to be a physical contest. Both teams are highly regarded in their respective conferences, with strong defenses and efficient offenses. Alabama State will look to leverage their home-field advantage, while North Carolina Central will rely on their disciplined approach to control the game’s tempo.

7. Miles Golden Bears vs. Alabama State Hornets

Date: September 7, 2024

Summary:
Alabama State will face Miles College in this Week 2 matchup, providing the Hornets an opportunity to fine-tune their game before heading into conference play. Miles, from the SIAC, will aim to showcase their resilience and compete against a higher division team. The game will be a test of depth and endurance, particularly for the Golden Bears.

8. Rice Owls vs. Texas Southern Tigers

Date: September 14, 2024

Summary:
Rice, from Conference USA, will host Texas Southern from the SWAC in a cross-divisional matchup. The Owls are known for their strong running game, while Texas Southern will be looking to bring their explosive passing attack to the forefront. This game could be a shootout if both offenses find their rhythm early.

9. Samford Bulldogs vs. Alabama State Hornets

Date: September 14, 2024

Summary:
In a matchup featuring two teams known for their physicality, Samford will take on Alabama State. The Bulldogs, from the Southern Conference, are always a tough out, and the Hornets will need to be at their best to secure a win. The game could hinge on which team can win the battle in the trenches.

10. North Carolina Tar Heels vs. North Carolina Central Eagles

Date: September 21, 2024

Summary:
This in-state clash between the ACC’s North Carolina Tar Heels and MEAC’s North Carolina Central Eagles is one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. The Tar Heels, with their high-powered offense, will look to outpace the Eagles, who will rely on a disciplined defense to keep them in the game. This game offers a big opportunity for Central to make a statement on a national stage.

11. Lamar Cardinals vs. Texas Southern Tigers

Date: October 5, 2024

Summary:
Lamar will host Texas Southern in what could be a pivotal game for both programs. The Cardinals, looking to improve their standing in the Southland Conference, will face a Texas Southern team that’s eager to prove itself in the SWAC. The outcome will likely depend on which team can control the line of scrimmage and sustain drives.

12. Virginia Union Panthers vs. Winston-Salem State Rams

Date: October 5, 2024

Summary:
A classic CIAA matchup, Virginia Union and Winston-Salem State are two of the top programs in the conference. This game could have playoff implications, as both teams are expected to contend for the CIAA title. Look for a hard-fought battle with plenty of intensity on both sides of the ball.

13. Texas Southern Tigers vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons

Date: August 29, 2024

Summary:
Texas Southern will open their season against Virginia-Lynchburg in a non-conference matchup. The Tigers will be looking to establish their offense early and build confidence heading into the heart of their schedule. Virginia-Lynchburg, an independent program, will aim to compete and potentially pull off a surprise.

14. Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Howard Bison

Date: August 29, 2024

Summary:
Rutgers, a member of the Big Ten, will host the Howard Bison in a game that pits an FBS powerhouse against one of the MEAC’s storied programs. Howard will look to test themselves against top-tier competition, while Rutgers aims to start the season on a strong note. The Bison’s defense will be crucial in keeping this game competitive.

15. UL Monroe Warhawks vs. Jackson State Tigers

Date: August 31, 2024

Summary:
Jackson State, fresh off a successful season, will travel to take on UL Monroe. The Tigers, who have been a force in the SWAC, will look to challenge the Warhawks of the Sun Belt Conference. The key to the game will be Jackson State’s ability to maintain offensive balance and keep the Warhawks on their heels.

16. Auburn Tigers vs. Alabama A&M Bulldogs

Date: August 31, 2024

Summary:
Alabama A&M faces a tough challenge as they travel to face Auburn, a perennial SEC contender. The Bulldogs will need to execute flawlessly to stay in the game, especially against Auburn’s powerful defense. For Auburn, this game serves as an opportunity to fine-tune their strategy before heading into the SEC schedule.

17. East Carolina Pirates vs. Norfolk State Spartans

Date: August 31, 2024

Summary:
Norfolk State, representing the MEAC, will take on East Carolina from the AAC. The Spartans will look to upset the Pirates by playing disciplined football and capitalizing on any mistakes. East Carolina will aim to overwhelm Norfolk State with their speed and athleticism on both sides of the ball.

18. Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Alcorn State Braves

Date: September 7, 2024

Summary:
Alcorn State faces a tough test against Vanderbilt from the SEC. The Braves will need to be sharp on both offense and defense to keep pace with the Commodores. This game provides an opportunity for Alcorn State to measure themselves against a higher level of competition and showcase their talent on a larger stage.

19. Miami Hurricanes vs. Florida A&M Rattlers

Date: September 7, 2024

Summary:
In a classic Florida matchup, Florida A&M will take on the Miami Hurricanes. The Rattlers, known for their strong tradition in the SWAC, will face an uphill battle against Miami’s speed and depth. However, with a strong showing, Florida A&M can gain valuable experience and potentially put a scare into their in-state rivals.

20. West Virginia State Yellow Jackets vs. Carson-Newman Eagles

Date: September 12, 2024

Summary:
West Virginia State will host Carson-Newman in this early-season non-conference matchup. The Yellow Jackets will look to establish themselves as contenders in their conference, while Carson-Newman will aim to spoil their plans. The key to victory for West Virginia State will be maintaining discipline and executing on both sides of the ball.

**21. Delaware StateContinuing with the remaining pre-game summaries:

21. Delaware State Hornets vs. Wagner Seahawks

Date: September 14, 2024

Summary:
Delaware State travels to face Wagner in what promises to be a competitive game. The Hornets, representing the MEAC, will look to showcase their defensive strength against Wagner, a member of the Northeast Conference. Both teams are known for their physical play, and the winner will likely be the team that can control the line of scrimmage and minimize turnovers.

22. Richmond Spiders vs. Delaware State Hornets

Date: September 21, 2024

Summary:
Delaware State faces a challenging road test against the Richmond Spiders, a strong program in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). The Hornets will need to bring their best effort, particularly on defense, to contain Richmond’s balanced attack. For Richmond, this game serves as an opportunity to tune up before diving into conference play.

23. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Bowie State Bulldogs

Date: September 28, 2024

Summary:
In a key CIAA matchup, Winston-Salem State will take on Bowie State. Both teams have championship aspirations, making this game a crucial early-season contest. Winston-Salem State will rely on their experienced defense to keep Bowie State’s offense in check, while the Bulldogs will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Rams’ secondary.

24. Richmond Spiders vs. North Carolina A&T Aggies

Date: October 5, 2024

Summary:
North Carolina A&T will be tested against Richmond in what should be a closely contested game. The Aggies have a tradition of performing well against strong competition, and this game will be no different. Richmond’s well-rounded team will provide a tough challenge, but North Carolina A&T’s defense could be the key to pulling off an upset.

25. Morehead State Eagles vs. Central State Marauders

Date: August 29, 2024

Summary:
Central State opens their season against Morehead State in what could be an interesting non-conference matchup. The Marauders will look to get their offense going early, while Morehead State will aim to impose their will with a balanced attack. The outcome could hinge on which team can establish a consistent ground game.

26. UAB Blazers vs. Alcorn State Braves

Date: August 30, 2024

Summary:
Alcorn State faces UAB in what will be a tough test for the Braves. UAB’s defense is one of the best in Conference USA, and the Braves will need to find creative ways to move the ball. On the flip side, UAB will look to assert their dominance early, but Alcorn State’s gritty style of play could keep the game closer than expected.

27. Wagner Seahawks vs. Virginia-Lynchburg Mystic Dragons

Date: August 31, 2024

Summary:
Wagner will face Virginia-Lynchburg in a game that should serve as a confidence-builder for the Seahawks. Virginia-Lynchburg, while capable of big plays, will need to play a near-perfect game to keep pace with Wagner. The Mystic Dragons will rely on their speed and special teams to try to create scoring opportunities.

28. Prairie View A&M Panthers vs. Texas Southern Tigers

Date: August 31, 2024

Summary:
This SWAC rivalry game between Prairie View A&M and Texas Southern is one of the most anticipated matchups of the early season. Prairie View A&M, known for their high-powered offense, will look to put up points in bunches, while Texas Southern’s defense will need to step up to keep the game within reach. The game could come down to which team wins the turnover battle.

29. Arkansas Baptist Buffaloes vs. John Melvin Millers

Date: September 1, 2024

Summary:
In this non-conference matchup, Arkansas Baptist takes on John Melvin. Both teams will be looking to establish themselves early in the season, with Arkansas Baptist focusing on their running game, while John Melvin might rely on their passing attack. The game could be decided by which team can control the clock and execute in the red zone.

30. Concord Mountain Lions vs. Bluefield State Big Blues

Date: September 7, 2024

Summary:
Bluefield State will host Concord in a game that promises to be a defensive battle. Both teams have strong defenses, so the game could be a low-scoring affair. Bluefield State will look to get their ground game going, while Concord will try to spread the field with their passing attack.

31. North Carolina A&T Aggies vs. Winston-Salem State Rams

Date: September 7, 2024

Summary:
This matchup between North Carolina A&T and Winston-Salem State features two of the top programs in HBCU football. The Aggies, coming off a strong 2023 season, will look to dominate with their physical style of play. Winston-Salem State, however, has the talent to make this a close game, particularly if their defense can hold up against A&T’s running game.

32. Winston-Salem State Rams vs. Ohio Dominican Panthers

Date: September 14, 2024

Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces Ohio Dominican in what could be a challenging non-conference game. The Panthers have a potent offense that could test the Rams’ secondary. Winston-Salem State will need to control the tempo and keep Ohio Dominican’s offense off the field to have a chance of winning.

33. Michigan State Spartans vs. Prairie View A&M Panthers

Date: September 14, 2024

Summary:
Prairie View A&M travels to take on Michigan State, an opponent from the Big Ten. The Panthers will face a tough challenge against a Spartan team known for their physicality and depth. Prairie View A&M’s best chance for success will be to strike early and try to force Michigan State into mistakes.

34. Virginia State Trojans vs. Winston-Salem State Rams

Date: September 21, 2024

Summary:
Winston-Salem State faces a crucial CIAA matchup against Virginia State. Both teams are considered contenders in the conference, making this game an important one for both programs. Expect a hard-fought, physical game with the winner gaining an early edge in the CIAA standings.

35. Bethune-Cookman Wildcats vs. Alabama State Hornets

Date: September 28, 2024

Summary:
This SWAC showdown between Bethune-Cookman and Alabama State could have major implications for the conference standings. The Wildcats will look to use their speed to outpace the Hornets, while Alabama State will try to control the game with their physical style of play. Special teams could play a crucial role in determining the outcome.

36. Alabama State Hornets vs. Florida A&M Rattlers

Date: October 5, 2024

Summary:
In one of the biggest games on the SWAC calendar, Alabama State takes on Florida A&M. The Rattlers, with their explosive offense, will be looking to put up big numbers, while Alabama State will rely on their strong defense to keep the game close. This game could have major implications for the SWAC East Division title.

We are dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring legacy of Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our mission is to provide a platform that honors the invaluable contributions of HBCUs to higher education, social justice, and community empowerment. Through insightful articles, engaging narratives, and meaningful dialogue, we strive to amplify the voices, experiences, and achievements within the HBCU community. By fostering awareness, appreciation, and support for HBCUs, we aspire to inspire current and future generations to pursue excellence, equity, and inclusivity in education and beyond.

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Prairie View A&M Earns First NCAA Tournament Win, Defeats Lehigh 67–55

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DAYTON, Ohio — Prairie View A&M University secured a historic milestone Wednesday night, earning its first-ever NCAA Tournament victory with a 67–55 win over Lehigh University in the First Four.

Dontae Horne led the charge with a game-high 25 points, while Cory Wells added 19 to pace the Panthers (19–17). Lance Williams chipped in 10 points, helping Prairie View A&M control the game and pull away in the second half.

Making just their third appearance in March Madness, the Panthers delivered a composed performance on the big stage, limiting Lehigh’s offensive rhythm and capitalizing on key scoring runs.

Lehigh (18–17) struggled to find consistency, particularly from leading scorer Nasir Whitlock. After being held scoreless for more than 26 minutes, Whitlock finished with just five points on 2-of-15 shooting—well below his usual production. Hank Alvey provided a bright spot for the Mountain Hawks with 23 points.

With the win, Prairie View A&M advances as a No. 16 seed in the South Region and will take on defending national champion University of Florida in Tampa, Florida.

The victory marks a breakthrough moment for the Panthers, adding their name to the growing list of HBCU programs making noise on college basketball’s biggest stage.

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Howard Makes History with First NCAA Tournament Win, Edges UMBC 86–83

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DAYTON, Ohio — Howard University made program history Tuesday night, capturing its first-ever NCAA Tournament victory with a thrilling 86–83 win over University of Maryland, Baltimore County in the First Four.

Bryce Harris delivered a standout performance with 19 points and 14 rebounds, sealing the win with a clutch turnaround jumper with just 13 seconds remaining. His late-game heroics helped the Bison hold off a determined comeback by UMBC.

Ose Okojie led Howard with a career-high 23 points, powering the Bison (24–10) to a long-awaited breakthrough after entering March Madness winless in four previous appearances.

“We’ve accomplished a lot, but getting that first NCAA Tournament win means everything,” said head coach Kenneth Blakeney.

UMBC (24–9) made things interesting down the stretch. A three-pointer from DJ Armstrong Jr. cut the deficit to two with under a minute left. After Harris extended the lead, Jah’Likah King answered with a layup to keep it a one-possession game. But Howard held firm—Isaiah Brown split a pair of free throws, and Armstrong’s last-second three-point attempt missed, securing the historic win.

The Bison controlled much of the game, leading for nearly the entire contest and building a 13-point advantage in the first half. Okojie set the tone early with 16 first-half points, helping Howard take a 49–41 lead into halftime.

UMBC, known for its historic upset over Virginia in the 2018 NCAA Tournament, was looking to recreate March magic but fell just short despite strong performances from King (19 points), Armstrong (17), and Caden Diggs (15).

Cedric Taylor III added 16 points for Howard, excelling at the free-throw line before fouling out late in the game.

The Bison now advance as a No. 16 seed in the Midwest Region and will face powerhouse University of Michigan in the next round in Buffalo, New York.

With history already made, Howard now turns its attention to its next challenge on college basketball’s biggest stage.

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🏀 Broncos’ Season Ends in NCAA Regional Loss Despite Double-Double Performances

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The Fayetteville State University men’s basketball team saw its postseason run come to an end with a 96–83 loss to California University of Pennsylvania in the NCAA Division II Atlantic Regional Quarterfinal.

The game, played at the Highmark Events Center, marked the conclusion of a strong season for the Broncos, who finished 23–7 overall.


🔥 Strong First Half Effort

Fayetteville State controlled much of the first half, showcasing balanced scoring and energy on both ends of the floor.

Big plays from multiple contributors helped the Broncos build momentum, including key shots from the perimeter and strong interior presence. A late three-pointer gave FSU a 45–42 lead, and they entered halftime narrowly ahead 45–44 after a last-second response from California (PA).


⚡ Second Half Shift

The game turned quickly after halftime.

Following an early basket to extend their lead, Fayetteville State was met with a decisive run from California (PA), fueled by transition scoring and perimeter shooting. The Vulcans surged ahead and stretched the lead to double digits, eventually pushing it to 72–54 midway through the second half.

Despite multiple comeback attempts, the Broncos were unable to regain control.


⭐ Standout Performances

  • Ezekiel Cannedy led the Broncos with 20 points

  • Larry Howell recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds

  • Terrell Williams added a double-double of 13 points and 15 rebounds

Additional contributions came from:

  • Darius Boben (8 points)

  • Kenneth Brayboy (8 points, late dunks)


📊 Game Notes

  • Final Score: California (PA) 96, Fayetteville State 83

  • Halftime: FSU led 45–44

  • Shooting: 35.3% from the field, 30% from three

  • Bench Points: 34

  • Second-Chance Points: 23


🏁 Season Reflection

Despite the loss, Fayetteville State’s season stands as a major success. The Broncos captured a conference title and carried momentum into the NCAA Tournament, highlighting their depth, toughness, and ability to compete at a high level.

With key contributors stepping up on the national stage, the program continues to build toward deeper postseason runs in the future.

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🏀 Lady Rams Fall in Heartbreaker in Atlantic Regional Championship

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The Winston-Salem State University women’s basketball team saw its remarkable postseason run come to a crushing end Monday night, dropping a 65–64 thriller to Indiana University of Pennsylvania in the NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Championship.

Inside the Kovalchick Convention & Athletic Complex, the Lady Rams battled from start to finish in a game defined by momentum swings, clutch shots, and late-game drama.

Winston-Salem State finishes the season with an impressive 28–4 record, capping off one of the program’s strongest campaigns.


🔥 Back-and-Forth Battle

The Rams showed early resilience, overcoming an early deficit with a strong closing run in the first quarter to take a narrow lead. They carried that momentum into the second, building a double-digit advantage before IUP responded late in the half.

After leading 32–27 at halftime, Winston-Salem State continued to fight through a tightly contested third quarter, holding a 50–47 edge heading into the final period.


💔 Final Seconds Decide It

In the fourth quarter, the Rams appeared in control late, extending their lead to 64–60 with just 36 seconds remaining.

But IUP responded when it mattered most.

A clutch three-pointer in the final seconds gave the Crimson Hawks a 65–64 lead, completing a late comeback. Winston-Salem State had one final opportunity, but a last-second shot attempt missed, sealing the heartbreaking loss.


⭐ Key Performers

  • Ah’Kiyah Pye led the Rams with 16 points and strong all-around play

  • Makayla Waleed added key scoring off the bench

  • Alana Biosse contributed 11 points, including critical three-pointers

As a team, the Rams shot over 40% from the field, forced 19 turnovers, and showed defensive intensity with 13 steals.


📊 Game Snapshot

  • Final Score: IUP 65, WSSU 64

  • Lead changes: 13

  • Ties: 10

  • A true championship-level battle from start to finish


🏁 Season Reflection

Despite the loss, Winston-Salem State’s run to the regional championship highlighted the program’s growth, resilience, and championship potential.

One possession short of advancing, the Lady Rams proved they belong among the nation’s elite in Division II women’s basketball.

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Howard Women Capture MEAC Championship, Defeat Norfolk State 53–46

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NORFOLK, Va. — Howard University claimed the 2026 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Women’s Basketball Tournament title Saturday with a 53–46 win over Norfolk State at The Scope, completing a sweep of the league’s tournament crowns after the Howard men also won the MEAC championship.

The Bison, who last earned a MEAC title and NCAA automatic bid in 2022, were led by MEAC Player of the Year and Tournament MVP Zennia Thomas, who posted 15 points and eight rebounds. Nile Miller added 12 points and a game-high 13 boards, while Ariella Henigan, the league’s Rookie of the Year, chipped in 11 points. Howard improved to 26–7 on the season.

Norfolk State, aiming for a fourth consecutive MEAC tournament title and NCAA berth, finished its campaign at 18–13. Jasha Hinton led the Spartans with 11 points, five rebounds, and five assists, and Anjanae Richardson added 10 points.

After trailing 16–9 after the first quarter, Norfolk State rallied to tie the game 27–27 at halftime. Howard responded in the second half with key baskets from Zoe Stewart and a 9–2 run that gave the Bison a 42–33 advantage after three quarters. Norfolk State closed the gap to 47–43 in the final period, but Howard’s Miller scored inside to extend the lead, and the Bison finished strong with four of the game’s final seven points to secure the 53–46 win.

Head coach Ty Grace praised the Spartans’ program and credited his team’s preparation and execution. Miller, the lone senior at the postgame press conference, reflected on finally capturing a MEAC title after four seasons of trying.

2026 MEAC Women’s Basketball All-Tournament Team

  • Zennia Thomas, Howard (Tournament Outstanding Player)

  • Ariella Henigan, Howard

  • Jasha Clinton, Norfolk State

  • Anjanae Richardson, Norfolk State

  • Kaliya Perry, UMES

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