Congratulations to Howard Men’s Basketball on First NCAA Tournament Berth Since 1992

Dear Howard University Community,

Please join me in giving a hearty congratulations to our Howard Bison men’s basketball team on completing a terrific season and earning its way into this year’s NCAA Division I basketball tournament.

After winning last week’s MEAC tournament, the men’s team officially secured its first trip to the NCAA tournament since 1992, and only its third trip in NCAA tournament history. Although the team lost a tough contest this afternoon to the Kansas Jayhawks to officially end its season, it nevertheless gave the top-seeded defending champions an incredible game, proving our team and our University more than belong on the biggest stages.

From its very first game of the season against a traditional college basketball powerhouse in the Kentucky Wildcats, the Howard men’s basketball team has responded to some major challenges with its trademark grit and determination, maturing into a formidable group over the course of the regular season and into the postseason tournaments. Coach Kenneth Blakeney, his staff, and the players have reinvigorated the program from top-to-bottom, yielding some impressive wins both on- and off-the-court. Their hard work has paid dividends, and they have now delivered one of the best seasons in the University’s history. No matter today’s outcome, this year has been an unmitigated success and a foundational piece for sustained excellence on the hardwood for years to come.

Let us also extend our congratulations to the Howard Bison women’s basketball team for their second consecutive run to the MEAC championship game. While they came just short of repeating as conference champions, the Lady Bison gave their best efforts, and the future is as bright as ever for both our men’s and women’s basketball programs. The ladies insist they will be back and better than ever next year, and I certainly would not dare bet against them. March Madness, look out!

Excellence in Truth and Service,

 

Wayne A. I. Frederick, M.D., MBA

Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery

President