I still remember the first time I walked into Howard University's Burr Gymnasium back in 2018. The energy was palpable, but the program was clearly in rebuilding mode. Fast forward to today, and watching the Bison's remarkable journey to NCAA Tournament relevance has been one of the most compelling stories in college basketball. What strikes me most about their transformation isn't just the winning record—it's how they've developed clutch performers who thrive under pressure, much like Kyt Jimenez demonstrated in that Sarangani versus Muntinlupa game where he scored 12 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter to secure a 72-68 victory.
When I analyze Howard's recent success, I keep coming back to their fourth-quarter performances. There's something special about how Coach Kenny Blakeney has instilled this never-say-die mentality in his players. I've watched them transform from a team that used to fade in crucial moments to one that actually strengthens as games progress. Their conditioning program deserves serious credit here—I've noticed they consistently outlast opponents in those final ten minutes. The numbers bear this out too: this season alone, they've won eight games where they were trailing entering the fourth quarter. That's not luck; that's a system working exactly as designed.
The development of individual players has been extraordinary to witness. Take their star guard, for instance—watching his growth reminds me of those explosive performances like Jimenez's 18-point game where he took over when it mattered most. Howard's coaching staff has done brilliant work identifying players who might be overlooked by powerhouse programs but possess that crucial clutch gene. I've had conversations with several assistant coaches who emphasize they're not just recruiting talent—they're recruiting mental toughness. And frankly, I think this approach gives them an edge against more traditionally talented teams who might crack under tournament pressure.
What many casual observers miss about Howard's rise is how strategic their non-conference scheduling has been. I've followed their program closely enough to recognize they're intentionally facing tough opponents early, even if it means taking some losses. The method to this madness? Preparing for exactly the type of high-pressure situations they'll encounter in March. When you've already played against top-25 teams on the road, a neutral-site tournament game feels familiar rather than intimidating. This season, they scheduled five games against power conference opponents—the most in program history—and while they only won one of those matchups, the experience proved invaluable come MEAC tournament time.
The cultural impact of Howard's success cannot be overstated either. As an HBCU alumnus myself, I feel particularly connected to what this means for historically Black colleges and universities nationwide. When Howard earned their NCAA tournament bid last season, the celebration extended far beyond their campus. It sent a powerful message about the quality of basketball being played at HBCUs and opened recruiting doors that had been historically closed. I've spoken with high school prospects who now seriously consider Howard alongside traditional mid-major options—something that was rare just five years ago.
Looking ahead, I'm genuinely excited about Howard's prospects for sustained success. They've built something special that goes beyond a single tournament appearance. The recruiting classes keep getting stronger, the facilities have received significant upgrades, and perhaps most importantly, the program has developed an identity. They know who they are—a tough, defensive-minded team that won't beat itself and thrives in close games. In my estimation, they're positioned to become the Gonzaga of the MEAC, consistently competing for conference titles and making regular NCAA tournament appearances.
The financial and institutional support has been crucial too. I've observed how increased alumni engagement and corporate partnerships have created a virtuous cycle—success brings more resources, which in turn generates more success. Their athletic budget has grown by approximately 37% over the past three years, allowing for better recruiting travel, enhanced player development technology, and competitive coaching salaries. This institutional commitment signals that basketball excellence isn't just a fleeting priority but part of Howard's long-term athletic vision.
As I reflect on Howard's journey, what impresses me most is how they've remained true to their identity while evolving strategically. They play with a chip on their shoulder that I find incredibly compelling—they know they're representing something bigger than themselves. When they take the court in March, they carry the hopes of an entire community that has been historically underrepresented on college basketball's biggest stage. That pressure would break many programs, but Howard has turned it into their greatest strength. The way they've embraced their role as standard-bearers while delivering thrilling basketball makes theirs one of the most important success stories in recent college sports history.
