Howard Men and Women Sweep MEAC Championships, Earn NCAA Tournament Berths

NORFOLK, Va. — March basketball is often defined by momentum, resilience and the ability to deliver in the biggest moments.

For Howard University, those qualities led to a historic weekend.

Both the Howard men’s and women’s basketball teams captured the 2026 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference tournament championships, sending the Bison to the NCAA Tournament and completing a rare conference sweep.

Howard Men Capture Conference Title

The Howard men’s team defeated North Carolina Central 70-63 in the championship game to claim the program’s third MEAC tournament title in four years.

The Bison relied on defense and rebounding throughout the game, controlling the tempo and limiting North Carolina Central’s scoring opportunities late.

Head coach Kenneth Blakeney’s team executed efficiently down the stretch, converting key free throws to secure the victory.

Howard Women Follow With Championship Win

The Howard women’s team followed with a strong defensive performance in the title game against Norfolk State, winning 53-46.

Forward Zennia Thomas led the Bison with 15 points, while Nile Miller recorded a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds.

Howard dominated the boards and produced 24 second-chance points, which proved decisive in the seven-point victory.

NCAA Tournament Awaits

With both championships secured, Howard will send two basketball programs to the NCAA Tournament, a significant accomplishment for the university and the MEAC conference.

For the Bison, the focus now shifts to the national stage.