Kyrell Shaw originally committed to Winston-Salem State last winter, but flipped his commitment to Maryland Eastern Shore when his brother transferred there.

After scoring 20 points just once in his first two seasons, Ketron Shaw hit that mark in six of his first seven games at the Division I level, including a 30-point performance against Old Dominion. He scored 20 or more points in half of his 28 appearances in the season while shooting 45 percent from the field and was named third-team All-MEAC after the season. He led the team in scoring, rebounding and assists.

Kyrell Shaw, a 6’4 guard, averaged 6.7 points per game during his freshman campaign. He scored in double figures seven times, including a 31-point performance against Galladuet. 

Also hitting the portal from the HBCU is Jalen Ware. Ware averaged 3.3 points and four rebounds per game for UMES (6-25).

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The game at UMES’s home court saw the Hawks overcome a halftime deficit. Trailing 33-27 at the break, UMES rallied in the second half, outscoring NCCU 41-26 to clinch the win. “This win was well overdue. I appreciate how hard the guys played tonight and the great support from our fans. I thought the energy in Hytche was excellent.” Coach Hill remarked after the game.

Evan Johnson led a balanced UMES offense with 19 points, going a perfect 10-for-10 from the free-throw line. KC Shaw added 16 points, grabbing a game-high and season-best 12 rebounds and dishing out six assists. Cardell Bailey scored 14 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. “We had a big play by KC Shaw that sparked our team and the crowd and we were able to sustain that high level of energy throughout the night. I am proud of our guys. We had a really tough non-conference schedule followed by matchups against quality teams in the MEAC. They have stayed motivated and were up to the challenge tonight.”

Before taking the helm at Maryland Eastern Shore, Hill served as the head coach at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), another HBCU with a rich basketball history. At WSSU, Hill led the Rams to multiple winning seasons and a CIAA championship, reinforcing his reputation as a strong leader in collegiate basketball. His success there made him a prime candidate for the UMES coaching position, where he now aims to elevate the program within the MEAC.

Hill’s connection to HBCU basketball runs even deeper through his father, Cleo Hill Sr., a legendary player from Winston-Salem State who was one of the first HBCU players drafted in the first round of the NBA Draft. Carrying on his father’s legacy, Hill Jr. has continued to emphasize player development, discipline, and teamwork—qualities that were on full display in Maryland Eastern Shore’s recent victory over NCCU.

This matchup adds another chapter to the quickly growing rivalry between these two HBCUs. Earlier in the season, on January 11, 2025, UMES faced a challenging game against NCCU, resulting in an 88-69 loss. The recent victory demonstrates the Hawks’ growth and resilience over the season.

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Meet KC Shaw  

Charlotte, NC native Kentron “KC” Shaw is averaging 18.5 points per game in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore after transferring from Division II HBCU Winston-Salem State. The Junior guard followed his head coach, Cleo Hill Jr., who took over in the same capacity at UMES in June of 2024.

Despite limited shots during his freshman season, he provided the Rams with energy, starting every game, which paid off with the WSSU winning the 2023 CIAA Championship.

Shaw averaged 10 points a game as a sophomore and had multiple games with over 15 points while also being a great defender and rebounder. The Rams came up short of being back-to-back CIAA champs and once coach Hill decided to take the head job at the UMES, so did KC.  

Now, KC Shaw has followed his coach to a new home and is one of the top players in the conference. With his profile growing in the MEAC. I sat down to interview KC Shaw before the Hawks game in Durham against North Carolina Central about his journey from DII to DI HBCU basketball.  

“It’s been a great experience so far actually. Great strength and conditioning coaches, Great teammates, great basketball, with a lot of focus and a lot of resources… It was a great transition, I definitely give credit to all my coaches. Coach B and them for always working with me from Day One and seeing something that I didn’t see within myself.”  

I also got a chance to speak to his younger brother and teammate freshman guard Kyrell “Ky” Shaw and asked him how about his transition from high school to Division I basketball.

“It’s a big turnaround for real. Coming from high school to going to college you not the man no more,” Shaw said. “Everybody that’s on your team was the man at the school so you just gotta adjust for real.”  

KC spoke about traveling to different states and playing in different arenas with his younger brother.

“It’s definitely been great, definitely tougher than high school. From running around, throwing alleys to each other but now it’s through a system with harder teams.”  

While the Shaw brothers are enjoying being teammates again, the elder KC understands where his brother is as a freshman and both have their eyes set on a different set of goals.

“Win player of the year and win the MEAC.”

“Keep progressing as a player and keep finding out my role,” Ky Shaw said.

KC and Ky are still getting their feet wet as Coach Hill and the Shaw brothers navigate their first season in the MEAC.

With conference play in full swing, HBCU basketball has taken notice of KC’s scoring abilities and the former DII hooper is no longer flying under the radar, as he and the new regime at UMES look to establish themselves as we get into the thick of the conference schedule.

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Sophomore guards Kyla Bryant and Aysia Hinton delivered career performances to lead the undermanned Eagles. Bryant erupted for 32 points, including a remarkable 20-for-21 performance from the free-throw line, while Hinton posted a double-double with 23 points and 12 rebounds. The team’s 44 made free throws and 56 attempts both set NCCU women’s basketball records.

Trailing by 11 points in the second half, the Eagles mounted an inspired comeback. Bryant’s three clutch free throws with three seconds left in regulation forced overtime. In the first extra period, Hinton hit a critical three-pointer to tie the game at 77. Despite four Eagles fouling out, including Bryant with 30 seconds remaining in the second overtime, the team’s resilience shone through.

The crowd played a pivotal role in energizing North Carolina Central, who turned the tide with aggressive drives and stifling defense. “The crowd definitely played a role,” Bryant said. “They fed us.”

UMES (0-2 MEAC, 5-12 overall) held a significant edge in the paint but couldn’t overcome NCCU’s free-throw dominance or late-game heroics. Hinton sealed the victory with clutch free throws, and Laila Lewis capped the game with a steal.

“The win gives us confidence and lets us know no matter how many bodies we have, we can still win the game, and that we can compete with every team in the MEAC,” Hinton said.

NCCU returns to action Monday against Delaware State, hoping to build on their thrilling HBCU victory.

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The championship match was a closely fought battle, with Howard University in five sets. Senior standout Valeria Otero led the team with 18 kills, showcasing her offensive power when the stakes were highest. Aaliyah Mitchell delivered one of her best performances of the season, adding 14 kills while hitting an impressive .600. Gerren Tomlin was another key contributor, finishing with 17 kills and 20 digs, proving her ability to impact the game both offensively and defensively.

Delaware State’s defense played a crucial role in securing the win. Morgan Allen anchored the backline with 22 digs, making several critical plays to keep rallies alive. At the net, Hannah Sanders and Martyna Kmuk combined for six blocks, effectively shutting down Howard’s hitters in the pivotal moments of the match. The Hornets’ ability to execute in pressure situations was on full display, particularly in the fifth and deciding set, where they stormed to a 15-7 win thanks to Mitchell’s clutch kills and timely blocks from the front line.

Earlier in the match, Delaware State had to dig deep in the third set after falling behind. Otero delivered two consecutive kills late in the set to shift the momentum, while Allen’s diving save on a key rally ensured the Hornets would hold on for a 25-20 win. These moments highlighted the team’s resilience and determination, qualities that have defined their season.

Delaware State’s journey to the championship was equally impressive, as the team finished the season 17-13 overall and 10-4 in MEAC play. Their tournament run included victories over North Carolina Central in the quarterfinals and a sweep of Coppin State in the semifinals, setting up their dramatic showdown with Howard. The Hornets’ triumph not only secured their MEAC title but also earned them a chance to compete against the nation’s best in the NCAA Division I Volleyball Tournament.

As they prepare to take the national stage, Delaware State carries the pride of HBCU volleyball and a roster of standout players ready to make an impact. With their championship momentum and a balanced team effort, the Hornets are poised to take on the challenge and continue their remarkable season.

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PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland – After impacting multiple teams as a player, trainer, and coach, Lance Beckwith will join the University of Maryland Eastern Shore men’s basketball program as an assistant coach. With the recent arrival of new head coach Cleo Hill, Beckwith becomes the first member of Hill’s new Division I HBCU staff.

Beckwith brings a wealth of basketball experience to Maryland Eastern Shore. He worked with Hill at Winston-Salem State as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator from 2018 until Spring 2024. The Rams experienced an elite run of success during the period that Beckwith was on campus. In five seasons at WSSU, the Rams won 90 games, took home a pair of Southern Division titles, won two Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) championships, and were the victors of the 2022 Gary Miller Classic, 2023 Chris Paul Invitational, and NBA All-Star x HBCU Classic. For their excellence on the hardwood, Beckwith was recognized as a member of the Coaching Staff of the Year alongside the rest of the Winston-Salem State coaches in both the 2019-2020 and 2023-2024 seasons.

In addition to wins and accolades on the court, Beckwith has excelled at helping student-athletes reach their full potential. With a special focus on developing guards, Beckwith has coached 12 players who have gone on to play basketball professionally. In terms of player accolades, two CIAA All-Rookie players, one CIAA Defensive MVP, six HBCU Boxtorow All-Americans, and five straight seasons of CIAA First Team Selections have all developed under Beckwith’s tutelage at WSSU.

Before joining the Rams’ coaching staff, Beckwith served as a basketball trainer in the Raleigh-Durham area of North Carolina. During his time as a trainer, Beckwith had stints with Team United of the Elite Basketball Youth League (EYBL) and coached Team Wall in the Adidas Gauntlet. He also was the head coach of a 15U basketball team and an assistant coach of a 17U basketball team.

In addition to his coaching background, Beckwith also excelled as a player. He made history at Wake Tech Community College by being the first athlete to sign a basketball scholarship. Beckwith continued his career at the University of Central Missouri where he led the Mules to a pair of Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) regular season championships and a MIAA Tournament crown. During his career, he amassed 1,329 points with 546 rebounds and 344 assists. In high school, he starred at the Word of God Christian Academy where he won a state title in 2008 and was a teammate of NBA point guard John Wall.

Beckwith graduated in 2013 from the University of Central Missouri with a Bachelor of Science degree. He also holds a Master of the Arts degree in Communications.

Off the court, he and his wife, Chaquinta, are the proud parents of a son, Lance Beckwith, Jr.

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PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland —The University of Maryland Eastern Shore Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has announced the hiring of current (Winston-Salem State University) WSSU head coach Cleo Hill, Jr. as its head men’s basketball coach.

“We are excited about the future of Hawk basketball as we welcome Cleo Hill, Jr. to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. During our national search, the hiring committee received an influx of interest from qualified candidates. After a thorough and timely review of each candidate, Coach Hill stood out as the right person to lead our men’s basketball program,” Vice President of Athletics Tara A. Owens said. “Coach Hill has a proven track of building winning programs with success at Cheyney, Shaw and Winston-Salem State. He has a tremendous reputation as a coach and has a great vision for Hawk basketball. Under his leadership, we will continue to reach new heights of success on the court, in the classroom, and in the community.”

A veteran coach, Hill comes to the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with 17 seasons of head coaching experience along with a variety of assistant coaching roles and an impressive collegiate playing career at North Carolina Central University.

Hill spent the previous six seasons as the head coach of the Rams at Winston-Salem State University.

Last season, Hill led Winston-Salem State University to a 19-9 overall record along with a perfect 6-0 record in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Northern Division. With the top record in the CIAA, the Rams were ranked in the D2CSC Atlantic Poll eight times. Hill developed two All-CIAA selections in Jaylen Alston and Isaac Parson. Alston was also tabbed CIAA Player of the Year. In addition, Imajae Dodd was named CIAA Defensive Player of the Year and Hill earned CIAA Coach of the Year honors. Earlier in May of this year, Hill was selected to coach and hold on-court basketball sessions at the NBA Draft Combine in Chicago, Illinois.

Hill guided the Winston-Salem State University to a 21-9 ledger in 2022-2023 on the way to capturing the CIAA Tournament title and earning an appearance in the NCAA Div. II tournament. Player standouts under Hill’s tutelage included CIAA Tournament MVP Jaylen Alston and All-CIAA selection Jaylon Gibson. Hill was also chosen by WSSU Athletic Director Etienne Thomas to participate in Leadership Winston-Salem, a 9-month leadership program designed to educate, connect, and energize leaders to serve and improve the community. At the end of the 2023 season, Hill was named to the North Carolina Black Business Power 100 List.

Despite the most uncertain of times coming out of a canceled 2020-21 season due to Covid-19, the Rams 2021-22 season was unwavering as they clinched a Southern Division title ending the regular season with an 18-7 record while Hill secured his 200th career head coaching victory. Hill helped develop Cameron Campbell and Javante Cooke who both earned All-CIAA selection. Cooke also secured a spot on the HBCU All-Star Team and was ultimately drafted to the G-League.

In his second year as the WSSU head coach, Hill led the team to its first CIAA championship in eight years with a 19-10 overall record. In addition to the team’s tournament championship, the Rams also claimed a share of the 2019-20 CIAA Southern Division Championship while Hill was named the CIAA Coach of the Year. WSSU also made their first trip to the NCAA Division II Atlantic Region Tournament since 2013.

Prior to taking the reins of the WSSU program, Hill was an entrepreneur, serving as a basketball trainer for three years including working several basketball camps through Breakthrough Basketball.

Hill spent seven seasons as the head coach at Shaw University from 2008 to 2015. Under Hill’s leadership, the Bears went 116-67 overall record. Hill’s most successful run with the Bears included the 2011-2012 season in which Shaw went 27-4 overall along with an undefeated regular season in the CIAA with a 16-0 record while earning a Southern Division crown and an NCAA tournament at-large bid. The team advanced to the Atlantic Regional final and concluded the season ranked No. 5 in the nation. During his time as the Shaw head coach, Hill developed CIAA Player of the Year and Atlantic Region Player of the Year Malik Alvin and All-CIAA selection Tony Smith. Hill was also named CIAA Coach of the Year and BOXTOROW Coach of the Year.

On their way to a 23-9 record in 2010-2011, the Bears won the CIAA title while Raheem Smith earned CIAA tournament MVP. Smith along with teammate Tony Smith were selected to the All-CIAA Team. Hill was recognized for his Team’s achievements by being named NSAA/NCAA DII Clarence Big House Gaines Coach of the Year and BOXTOROW Coach of the Year.

Hill’s head coaching career began at Cheyney University. Serving as the head coach of the Wolves from 2003 to 2008, Hill made an immediate impact. In his first season, the Wolves went 23-8 overall and won the Eastern Division title with a 10-2 record. Hill’s Wolves led the conference in scoring with 82 points per game led by East Player of the Year Anthony Frazier.

Before obtaining his first head coach position, Cleo Hill Jr. spent time as an assistant coach with Shaw University from 2000 to 2002. Hill supported the team as they clinched a CIAA Championship while advancing to the final field of four teams in the NCAA Div. II tournament. In addition, Hill assisted in the development of Ronald “Flip” Murray, who was voted CIAA Player of the year and Division II Player of the Year. Murray went on to be drafted in 2002 as the 42nd overall pick of the Milwaukee Bucks.

From 1998 to 2000, Hill was the assistant coach at the University of Nebraska where the team earned an NIT bid during the 1998-99 season. In addition, Hill’s first recruiting class at Nebraska was ranked top 20 in the nation.

Prior to Nebraska, Hill was an assistant coach at Mount Zion Christian Academy in Durham from 1996 to 97, where he helped coach the No. 1 ranked high school player in the country, lottery pick, and future NBA Hall of Fame inductee Tracy McGrady. While at Mount Zion Christian Academy, Hill was part of a team that went 26-3 while being ranked No. 1 in the country.

Hill’s first assistant coaching position was at his high school alma mater, Orange High School in Orange, New Jersey from 1991 to 1994. Prior to embarking on his coaching career, Hill played two seasons of semiprofessional basketball overseas.

Cleo Hill Jr. is a graduate of North Carolina Central University where he earned South Atlantic Region All-Tournament team honors as a senior and is still among the school’s all-time leading scorers after eclipsing the 1,000-point milestone in college. Hill was also a standout basketball player at Orange High School from 1980 to 1984 and received multiple basketball honors including All-City, All-County, and All-State honors. He eclipsed 1,000 points scored and ranks among the top ten scorers in school history. He was later inducted into the Orange High School Sports Hall of Fame.

Originally from Orange, New Jersey, Hill is the son of 2017 National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame inductee Cleo Hill, Sr., a guard who scored 2,488 points in his career at Winston-Salem State Teacher’s College, now WSSU. The elder Hill went on to be the eighth overall pick in the 1961 NBA draft by the St. Louis Hawks, the first player from an HBCU taken in the first round.

“I am ready for the opportunity to lead our men’s basketball program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. I appreciate the campus community, President Heidi M. Anderson, Vice President Tara Owens and the search committee for their efforts throughout the hiring process,” says Hill. “My past experiences and success as well as my passion for building programs have prepared me for this next step in my coaching career. Our goal is to build Hawk basketball into a perennial championship contender while winning in the classroom and positively representing UMES in the community. I am enthusiastic about the future and look forward to developing a team that our alumni, student body and fans will be proud of.”

Hill takes over a UMES program coming off a 9-20 season with a 4-10 mark in conference play.

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“Jason Crafton is no longer serving as our head coach at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore,” officials told HBCU Gameday in a brief statement. “We are officially moving forward with the hiring process to identify the next head men’s basketball coach at UMES.”

HBCU Gameday reached out to Crafton previously.

Crafton spent four seasons at the helm of the HBCU program in which he went 43-76 overall, including a 9-20 season in 2023-2024. The previous season saw the program go 18-13 overall – its best winning percentage of its Division I Era. 

Maryland-Eastern Shore is typically regarded as one of the most tough jobs in college basketball due to its miniscule budget and remote location in Princesse Anne, Maryland. It is one of only two Division I HBCU athletics departments without football. While the program had success in the CIAA in the 1950s and 60s and in the early days of the MEAC, it has just three winning seasons since the MEAC gained an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament in 1981. Crafton’s 2022-2023 season was the best winning percentage in nearly 50 years. 

“The most difficult job in getting things turned around is that there was no winning tradition,” Crafton said in March 2023. “Not a lot of reference points. We’re on a mission to be the first team in the history of the Div. I program to go to the Div. I (NCAA) tournament. We’re creating everything as we go. So the most difficult thing has been just fighting the lack of culture that’s been here and trying to create a culture on the fly.  You do that by bringing in the right people.

“We had a season taken, couldn’t practice, couldn’t go five-on-five. But we came back with an edge. We did not just want to get here. We want win it and change the culture.”

Now this HBCU program will be starting from scratch moving forward.

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WOMEN’S

NORFOLK STATE VS DELAWARE STATE

Norfolk State snapped Delaware State’s two-game win streak on Saturday afternoon, handing it a 65-51 loss at Memorial Hall. The Spartans went into halftime with a 40-22 lead and were able to hold off the Hornets for the final 20 minutes.

Diamond Johnson scored 20 points to lead the way for Norfolk State. Johnson was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 4-of-7 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Spartans’ success, as 12 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.01 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

Savannah Brooks scored 18 points, while Deyonce Thompson added another 13 to lead the way for Delaware State. As a team, the Hornets had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.79 points per possession on 33% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 31% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Norfolk State outscored Delaware State in the paint 36 to 16
• Delaware State was plagued by seven unforced turnovers (11% of possessions)
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Spartans leading the entire game

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Norfolk State takes on UMES at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall, where the Spartans will look to continue their solid play in their return home. Meanwhile, Delaware State will hope for a better result on the road when they head to Burr Gymnasium for a battle with Howard.

HOWARD VS MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE

Howard earned an impressive MEAC win on Saturday afternoon, taking down UMES by a score of 64-48. The Bison got out to a 36-31 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Hawks again in the second half to come away with the victory.

Iyanna Warren and Kaiya Creek scored 18 and 17 points, respectively, to lead the way for Howard. The transition game was a big factor in the Bison’s success, as 13 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.93 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

Ariana Seawell scored 16 points, while Ja’la Bannerman added another seven to lead the way for UMES. Collectively, the Hawks were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 28% of field goal attempts and 20% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, UMES went 13-of-18.

• 52% of HU’s field goals were assisted
• UMES’s bench outscored HU’s bench 34 to 18
• The game had one lead change and one tie

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Howard takes on conference rival Delaware State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, UMES will hope for a better result on the road when they meet winning-streak riding Norfolk State at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall.

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL VS COPPIN STATE

North Carolina Central ended its three-game losing skid, defeating Coppin State in a 52-44 contest on Saturday afternoon at Physical Education Complex. The Eagles went into halftime trailing 20-18 but outscored the Eagles by 10 points in the second half to come back and win.

Morgan Callahan scored 19 points to lead the way for North Carolina Central. That performance included an impressive 14 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. North Carolina Central’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 46% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.04 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 25% shooting and 0.56 points per possession in the first half.

Angel Jones recorded 13 points and six rebounds, and Mossi Staples contributed another nine points to pace Coppin State. Collectively, the Eagles were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 25% of field goal attempts and 11% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Coppin State went 11-of-13.

• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 67.9 was a season-low for North Carolina Central
• Coppin State was plagued by nine unforced turnovers (13% of possessions)
• The game had seven lead changes and four ties

Both teams have their next games on March 4. North Carolina Central takes on conference rival Morgan State at Hill Field House, where the Eagles will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Coppin State will try to rebound when they take on MEAC foe South Carolina State at Physical Education Complex.

MORGAN STATE VS SOUTH CAROLINA STATE

Morgan State broke its streak of five consecutive losses, defeating South Carolina State in a 61-29 rout on Saturday afternoon at Hill Field House. The Lady Bears went into halftime with a 61-29 lead and were able to hold off the Lady Bulldogs for the final 20 minutes.

Laila Fair and Nakilah Johnson each scored 12 points to lead the way for Morgan State. As a whole, the Lady Bears were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.94 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. However, they did maximize their opportunities, turning the ball over just 11 times (12% of possessions).

South Carolina State was led by Jada Morgan, who scored eight points while collecting five boards. As a team, the Lady Bulldogs had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.45 points per possession on 21% shooting from the field. Even the uncontested attempts were not falling, as the team went a paltry 11-of-19 from the free throw line.

• Morgan State scored a season-high 39 points off the bench
• SC State’s 21% field goal percentage marked a season-low
• The Lady Bears led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Each team has its next game on March 4. Morgan State faces North Carolina Central at Hill Field House, where the Lady Bears will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, South Carolina State will try to turn things around when they take on Coppin St. at Physical Education Complex.

SOUTHERN VS BETHUNE-COOKMAN

Southern defeated Bethune-Cookman in a 65-59 overtime thriller at the F.G. Clark Activity Center on Saturday afternoon. Southern went into halftime with a 27-23 lead, but Bethune-Cookman fought back to tie things up at the end of regulation. The Wildcats could not finish the job though, as they were outscored 15-9 in overtime.

Raven White and Aniya Gourdine led the scoring for Southern, each contributing 11 points. As a whole, the Lady Jaguars were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.76 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. Their shooting woes were alleviated by a relentless pursuit on the boards. Their 13 offensive rebounds led to 14 big second chance points.

Karianna Woods scored 16 points, while Kayla White added another 14 to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. As a team, the Wildcats had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.72 points per possession on 36% shooting from the field. Those numbers include 17-of-45 on two-pointers, 3-of-11 on three-pointers, and 16-of-24 on free throws.

• Southern outhustled Bethune-Cookman, outscoring them 14 to 1 on second chance points
• Bethune-Cookman recorded assists on 60% of attempted field goals
• Genovea Johnson recorded a game-high +9 plus-minus

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Southern meets Florida A&M at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, where the Lady Jaguars will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Bethune-Cookman will hit the road once again when they head to the FCH Assembly Center for a battle with Grambling State.

ALABAMA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Alabama A&M handed Alabama State its eighth consecutive loss in a 58-47 contest at the Event Center on Saturday afternoon. The Bulldogs went into the break leading by two points, and then outscored the Lady Hornets 34-25 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Darian Burgin scored 14 points while grabbing a season-high six boards to lead the way for Alabama A&M. Despite Burgin’s performance, the team collectively struggled shooting the ball. They shot 30% from the field while scoring just 0.83 points per possession. They found an advantage on the fast break though, accumulating 16 points in transition.

Solangelei Akridge scored 15 points, while Cordasia Harris added another 10 to lead the way for Alabama State. Collectively, the Lady Hornets were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 35% of field goal attempts and 32% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Alabama State went 7-of-10.

• AAMU’s defense buoyed their offense, scoring 17 points off of 23 Alabama State turnovers
• Alabama State scored below 50 points for the 17th time this season
• Four lead changes and four ties were recorded in the game

Both teams have their next games on March 7. Alabama A&M takes on Grambling State at the Event Center, where the Bulldogs will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to rebound when they take on Southern at Dunn-Oliver Acadome.

GRAMBLING STATE VS FLORIDA A&M

Grambling State recorded its seventh straight win, handing Florida A&M a 65-54 loss at the FCH Assembly Center on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Tigers went into the break leading by one point, and then outscored the Lady Rattlers 31-21 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Jazmyne Jackson scored 24 points to lead the way for Grambling State. Jackson was dangerous from three-point land, connecting on 4-of-7 attempts. The Lady Tigers’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating their 65 points on 30% shooting from the field. Their cold shooting did not stop them from attacking, though. They drew 25 fouls on the defense, which ultimately led to 26 points on 81% shooting from the free throw line.

Olivia Delancy recorded 24 points and eight rebounds, and Nashani Gilbert contributed another 10 points to pace Florida A&M. Collectively, the Lady Rattlers were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 25% of field goal attempts and 6% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Florida A&M went 19-of-23.

• GSU’s bench outscored FAMU’s bench 21 to 7
• Florida A&M recorded a new season-high with 58 total rebounds
• The game had 10 lead changes and 11 ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Grambling State meets Bethune-Cookman at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Lady Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Florida A&M will hit the road once again when they meet a Southern side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

JACKSON STATE VS TEXAS SOUTHERN

Jackson State recorded its 15th straight win in dominating fashion, handing Texas Southern a 101-51 loss at Health & P.E. Arena on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Tigers started by building up a 22-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Lady Tigers 55-27 over the final 20 minutes.

Miya Crump was an efficient machine, contributing 23 points on 9-of-10 shooting from the field to lead the way for Jackson State. Crump led what was a complete offensive performance for the Lady Tigers. The team shot 52% from the field while scoring 1.34 points per possession. The transition game was a big factor in their success, 21 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Tatyanna Clayburne scored 15 points, while Maci Quiller added another eight to lead the way for Texas Southern. Collectively, the Lady Tigers were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 25% of field goal attempts and 26% of three-point attempts. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 12% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Jackson State set a season-best in field goal percentage at 52%
• Texas Southern was plagued by five unforced turnovers (7% of possessions)
• The teams combined to hit 16 threes

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Jackson State takes on a confident Prairie View A&M squad at William Nicks Building, where the Lady Tigers will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Texas Southern will try to rebound when they take on SWAC foe Alcorn State at Health & P.E. Arena.

ALCORN STATE VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M

Alcorn State snapped Prairie View A&M’s two-game win streak in thrilling fashion on Saturday afternoon, handing it a 55-53 loss at William Nicks Building. The Lady Braves went into halftime with a seven-point lead, which was enough to survive the Lady Panthers’ second half push.

Zy’Nyia White scored 17 points to lead the way for Alcorn State. That performance included an impressive 14 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, Alcorn State shot 6-of-21 from the field in the second half, scoring 0.77 points per possession on average.

Amauri Williams scored 11 points, while Jada Roberson added another nine to lead the way for Prairie View A&M. As a team, the Lady Panthers had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.8 points per possession on 36% shooting from the field. Those numbers include 18-of-46 on two-pointers, 3-of-12 on three-pointers, and 8-of-13 on free throws.

• Alcorn State recorded assists on a season-low 35% of made field goals
• PVAMU’s bench outscored Alcorn’s bench 24 to 7
• The game had four lead changes and five ties

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Alcorn State heads to Health & P.E. Arena to take on Texas Southern, where the Lady Braves will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to turn its home stand around when they meet winning-streak riding Jackson State at William Nicks Building.

ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Arkansas-Pine Bluff were dominant in victory, powering past Mississippi Valley State University by a final score of 78-57 at H.O. Clemmons Arena on Saturday afternoon. The teams played a competitive first half, but the Lady Lions came out hot after the break, outscoring the Devilettes 56-39 over the final 20 minutes.

UAPB’s win was spearheaded by a balanced scoring effort. Coriah Beck led the scoring with 21 points, while Tia Morgan and Maya Peat added 11 points each. The Lady Lions’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 25 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 21 points (66% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.1 points scored per possession on 56% true shooting.

Mississippi Valley State University was led by Lizzie Walker, who scored 14 points while collecting eight boards. Collectively, the Devilettes were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 30% of field goal attempts and 25% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Mississippi Valley State University went 18-of-25.

• 92% of UAPB’s field goals were assisted
• Mississippi Valley State University scored below 60 points for the 17th time this season
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Lady Lions leading the entire game

Both teams have their next games on March 7. Arkansas-Pine Bluff faces Jackson State at the Williams Center, where the Lady Lions will hope their success follows them. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will hit the road once again when they head to Davey L. Whitney Health & Physical Education Complex for a battle with Alcorn State.

MEN’S

HOWARD VS MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE

Howard recorded its third straight win, handing UMES a 70-66 loss at the Hytche Center on Saturday evening. The Bison went into halftime with a 38-30 lead and were able to hold off the Hawks for the final 20 minutes.

Jordan Hairston scored 19 points in an incredibly efficient 6-of-9 shooting performance to lead the way for Howard. The Bison were relentless on the offensive boards, securing 16 extra possessions which they converted into 17 second chance points. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.14 points scored per possession on 55% true shooting.

The Hawks’ offensive efficiency was impressive despite the result. They averaged 1.09 points per possession on 57% true shooting. Kelechi Okworogwo led the way, putting up 20 points to go along with eight boards. Elijah Wilson also contributed, adding another 16 points.

• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 61.1 was a season-low for Howard
• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 61.1 was a season-low for UMES
• The game had zero lead changes and three ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Howard faces Delaware State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, UMES will hope for a better result on the road when they take on Norfolk State at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall.

DELAWARE STATE VS NORFOLK STATE

Delaware State snapped Norfolk State’s four-game win streak on Saturday evening, handing it an 85-71 loss at Memorial Hall. The Hornets went into halftime with a 23-point lead. Despite being outscored 46-37 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Spartans and hold on for the win.

Deywilk Tavarez was an efficient machine, contributing 31 points on 8-of-11 shooting from the field to lead the way for Delaware State. As a whole, the Hornets were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.14 points per possession on 54% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 10-of-22 attempts from deep.

Norfolk State was led by Allen Betrand, who put up 15 points. The Spartans shot 26-of-59 (44%) from the field in this one, including 7-of-26 (27%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.96 points per possession on 53% true shooting.

• Delaware State recorded assists on a season-high 80% of made field goals
• Norfolk’s bench outscored Del State’s bench 38 to 11
• The teams combined to hit 17 threes

Each team has its next game on March 4. Delaware State heads to Burr Gymnasium to take on Howard, where the Hornets will hope their success follows them. Meanwhile, Norfolk State will be thankful to return home when they face struggling UMES at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall.

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL VS COPPIN STATE

North Carolina Central recorded its third straight win in dominating fashion, handing Coppin State an 83-58 loss at Physical Education Complex on Saturday evening. The Eagles started by building up a 14-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Eagles 45-34 over the final 20 minutes.

Keishon Porter led the way for North Carolina Central, putting up a game-high 21 points. Porter was not the sole contributor though. The Eagles’ offense delivered from many fronts, pouring in 1.33 points per possession on 52% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 10-of-19 attempts from deep.

Malik Battle scored 16 points, while Justin Winston added another 13 to lead the way for Coppin State As a team, the Eagles had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.95 points per possession on 37% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 24% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• North Carolina Central recorded assists on a season-high 79% of made field goals
• Coppin State recorded assists on 58% of attempted field goals
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Eagles leading the entire game

Both teams take the floor again on March 4. North Carolina Central takes on struggling Morgan State at Hill Field House, where the Eagles will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Coppin St. will try to turn its home stand around when they meet winning-streak riding South Carolina State at Physical Education Complex.

BETHUNE-COOKMAN VS SOUTHERN

Bethune-Cookman recorded its third straight win in dramatic fashion on Saturday afternoon at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, defeating Southern 67-61. The Wildcats were down by two at the break and trailed by as many as 11 points in the second half, but they were still able to pull off the comeback.

Dhashon Dyson scored 23 points to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. Zion Harmon was pivotal as well, shooting 4-of-5 in the second half for 17 points to power the Wildcats forward after the break. As a team, Bethune-Cookman shot 9-of-22 from the field in the second half, scoring 1.11 points per possession on average.

Southern was led by Derrick Tezeno, who recorded 12 points and seven boards. The Jags shot 22-of-49 from the field and 3-of-15 from behind the arc. That contributed to their game average of 0.89 points per possession on 50% true shooting.

• Bethune-Cookman outran Southern, outscoring them in transition 23 to 5
• Southern outscored Bethune-Cookman 32 to 14 in the paint
• The attendance of the game at the F.G. Clark Activity Center was 4,289

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Bethune-Cookman heads to the FCH Assembly Center to take on Grambling State, where the Wildcats will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Southern will try to turn its home stand around when they host Florida A&M at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

ALABAMA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Alabama A&M broke its streak of two consecutive losses, defeating Alabama State in a 58-53 thriller on Saturday evening at the Event Center. The Hornets went into halftime with a one-point lead, but the Bulldogs would not go down without a fight. The sides exchanged the lead five times over the final 20 minutes, with Alabama A&M able to do just enough to come out on top.

Cameron Tucker scored 12 points to lead the way for Alabama A&M. As a whole, the Bulldogs were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.91 points per possession on 37% shooting from the field. The transition game was a bright spot though, as 11 of the team’s points came on the fast break.

Isaiah Range recorded 17 points and five rebounds, and Antonio “TJ” Madlock contributed another 14 points to pace Alabama State. Collectively, the Hornets were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 27% of field goal attempts and 37% of three-point attempts. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 19% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 64.5 was a season-low for Alabama A&M
• Alabama State hit a new season-high 10 threes
• 6,389 cheering fans showed up to the Event Center in attendance

Both sides have until March 7 to rest up and practice. Alabama A&M takes on conference rival Grambling State at the Event Center, where the Bulldogs will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Alabama State will be thankful to return home when they meet winning-streak riding Grambling State at Dunn-Oliver Acadome.

GRAMBLING STATE VS FLORIDA A&M

Grambling State recorded its fourth straight win, handing Florida A&M a 75-68 loss at the FCH Assembly Center on Saturday evening. The Tigers went into halftime with a 42-32 lead and were able to hold off the Rattlers for the final 20 minutes.

Antwan Burnett and Jourdan Smith led the scoring for Grambling State, each contributing 18 points. As a whole, the Tigers were elite on the offensive side of the ball, racking up 1.12 points per possession on 55% shooting from the field. They put a particular emphasis on generating easy looks close to the hoop, shooting 26-of-40 on two-pointers, including 20-of-29 in the paint.

Offense was not the issue for the Rattlers. They scored their 68 points on 45% shooting from the field. Keith Lamar led the way, putting up 24 points to go along with five boards. Shannon Grant also contributed, adding another 14 points.

• Grambling State recorded a new season-low one steal
• Florida A&M was plagued by nine unforced turnovers (14% of possessions)
• The game had four lead changes and three ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on March 4. Grambling State takes on Bethune-Cookman at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Tigers will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Florida A&M will hit the road once again when they face struggling Southern at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

TEXAS SOUTHERN VS JACKSON STATE

Texas Southern recorded its fourth straight win, handing Jackson State an 80-70 loss in a back-and-forth contest at Health & Physical Education Arena on Saturday evening. The Tigers went into halftime with a one-point lead, but the Tigers would not go down without a fight. The sides exchanged the lead 13 times over the final 20 minutes, with Texas Southern able to do just enough to come out on top.

PJ Henry scored 20 points to lead the way for Texas Southern. Henry was dangerous from three-point land, connecting on 4-of-8 attempts. Henry was not the sole contributor though. The Tigers’ offense delivered from many fronts, pouring in 1.13 points per possession on 48% shooting from the field. Three-point shooting was clearly a significant component of the offensive gameplan, as they knocked down 11-of-28 attempts from deep.

The Tigers’ offensive efficiency was impressive despite the result. They averaged 1.05 points per possession on 56% true shooting. Ken Evans led the way, putting up 19 points to go along with six boards. Rebounding was a different story entirely, as Jackson State was outrebounded 38-30 overall, and only 18% of the team’s missed shots resulted in second chances.

• Texas Southern outhustled Jackson State, outscoring them 14 to 4 on second chance points
• Jackson State recorded assists on 23% of attempted field goals
• The teams combined to hit 18 threes

Both teams take the floor again on March 4. Texas Southern faces Alcorn State at Health & Physical Education Arena, where the Tigers will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Jackson State will try to turn things around when they take on SWAC foe Prairie View A&M at William J. Nicks Building.

ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Arkansas-Pine Bluff defeated SWAC rival Mississippi Valley State University by a score of 78-69 on Saturday evening. The Golden Lions went into the break leading by one point, and then outscored the Delta Devils 44-36 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Rashad Williams scored 21 points to lead the way for Arkansas-Pine Bluff. That performance included an impressive 16 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. Arkansas-Pine Bluff’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 52% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.25 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 41% shooting and 1.04 points per possession in the first half.

Mississippi Valley State University was led by Rayquan Brown, who recorded 39 points and eight boards. The Delta Devils shot 26-of-62 (42%) from the field in this one, including 10-of-32 (31%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.94 points per possession on 52% true shooting.

• Arkansas-Pine Bluff recorded assists on a season-high 100% of made field goals
• Mississippi Valley State University hit a new season-high 10 threes
• The teams combined to hit 24 threes

Both teams have their next games on March 7. Arkansas-Pine Bluff takes on Jackson State at the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center, where the Golden Lions will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will hit the road once again when they take on Alcorn State at Davey L. Whitney Health & Physical Education Complex.

ALCORN STATE VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M

Alcorn State handed Prairie View A&M its fifth consecutive loss in a 73-65 contest at William J. Nicks Building on Saturday evening. The Panthers went into halftime with a 33-30 lead, but were unable to hang on, as they were outscored by 11 points in the second half.

Jeremiah Gambrell scored 21 points to lead the way for Alcorn State. Dekedran Thorn was pivotal as well, shooting 3-of-4 in the second half for 10 points to power the Braves forward after the break. Alcorn State’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 65% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.24 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 37% shooting and 0.89 points per possession in the first half.

Prairie View A&M was led by Brian Myles, who recorded 22 points and 13 boards. As a team, the Panthers shot 43% (23-of-54) from the field and 31% (4-of-13) from distance. That netted out to an average of 0.98 points per possession.

• Alcorn’s bench outscored PVAMU’s bench 24 to 1
• Prairie View A&M recorded a new season-high six blocks
• One lead change and zero ties were recorded in the game

Both teams have their next games on March 4. Alcorn State takes on a confident Texas Southern squad at Health & Physical Education Arena, where the Braves will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to turn its home stand around when they take on Jackson State at William J. Nicks Building.

NORTH CAROLINA A&T VS CAMPBELL

North Carolina A&T loss a nail-biter to Campbell on Saturday evening in a hard-fought 64-62 contest. The score was level after 20 minutes of play in a dynamic game that saw 14 different lead changes. The Fighting Camels had an edge in the second half, though, outscoring the Aggies 31-29.

Camian Shell scored 22 points while dishing out six assists to lead the way for North Carolina A&T. The Aggies shot 24-of-62 (39%) from the field in this one, including 9-of-27 (33%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 0.96 points per possession.

Jasin Sinani and Anthony Dell’Orso led the scoring for Campbell, each contributing 14 points. As a team, the Fighting Camels found a groove shooting from distance. They converted 11-of-30 three-pointers, with those 11 made threes establishing a new one-game season best. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.01 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

• Campbell recorded assists on a season-high 79% of made field goals
• North Carolina A&T was plagued by five unforced turnovers (8% of possessions)
• The teams combined to hit 20 threes

Campbell earned a good win against a tough CAA rival. The Fighting Camels’ next matchup is a March 9 game against Monmouth at D.C. Entertainment and Sports Arena. NC A&T’s recent struggles continued with its loss this evening. The Aggies’ next contest is a March 8 neutral court matchup with William & Mary in Washington.

HAMPTON VS WILLIAM & MARY

Hampton falls to William & Mary in an 85-73 contest on Saturday afternoon at Kaplan Arena. The Tribe got out to a 43-35 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Pirates again in the second half to come away with the victory.

The Pirates played well offensively in this one. They averaged 1.05 points per possession on 43% shooting from the field. Ja’Von Benson led the way, putting up 19 points to go along with nine boards. Despite shooting well overall, Hampton dug themselves an early hole. The team went down as much as 14 in the first half, and were ultimately unable to catch back up and push past William & Mary.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for William & Mary. Trey Moss led the scoring with 20 points. Gabe Dorsey added 19, while Sean Houpt also contributed 16 points. As a team, the Tribe went 29-of-64 from the field, while converting 12-of-18 at the free throw line. They relied on their deep shots, hitting 15-of-35 three-point attempts, including 14-of-33 from above the break.

• 69% of William & Mary’s field goals were assisted
• HU’s bench outscored William & Mary’s bench 41 to 10
• The teams combined to hit 21 threes

Both sides have until March 8 to rest up and practice. William & Mary takes on struggling North Carolina A&T at D.C. Entertainment and Sports Arena, where the Tribe will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Hampton will try to rebound when they take on Elon at D.C. Entertainment and Sports Arena.

TENNESSEE STATE VS UT MARTIN

Tennessee State loses to UT Martin in dramatic fashion on Saturday afternoon at the Kathleen and Tom Elam Center, defeating the Tigers 96-87. The Skyhawks trailed by as many as 12 points in the second half but made an improbable comeback to win the game.

Offense was not the issue for the Tigers. They scored their 87 points on 50% shooting from the field. Marcus Fitzgerald Jr. led the way, putting up 18 points and five assists. EJ Bellinger also contributed, adding another 15 points.

Jordan Sears scored 34 points to lead the way for UT Martin. That performance included an impressive 29 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, UT Martin shot 27-of-63 from the field and 32-of-34 from the line to put up an average of 1.29 points per possession.

• UT Martin outran Tennessee State, outscoring them in transition 31 to 17
• Tennessee State outscored UT Martin 34 to 20 in the paint
• The teams combined to hit 19 threes

UT Martin earned a good win against a tough OVC rival. The Skyhawks will face their next opponent, TBA, at the Ford Center on March 8. This afternoon’s defeat was another tough result for Tennessee State. It had lost in its last outing against Little Rock and was looking to rebound. The Tigers will look for redemption in their next game against Southern Ind., which has been struggling recently. That one is on March 6 at the Ford Center.

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WOMEN’S

MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE VS NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL

UMES took down North Carolina Central, one of the MEAC’s top teams, by a score of 71-64 on Saturday afternoon. The Hawks went into halftime with a 45-35 lead and were able to hold off the Eagles for the final 20 minutes.

Mya Thomas scored a game-high 15 points to lead the way for UMES. As a whole, the Hawks were less than impressive on the offensive side of the ball, scoring just 0.96 points per possession on 38% shooting from the field. Their cold shooting did not stop them from attacking, though. They drew 19 fouls on the defense, which ultimately led to 19 points on 76% shooting from the free throw line.

Tippy Robertson put up 13 points to lead North Carolina Central. The Eagles shot 23-of-55 from the field and 3-of-15 from behind the arc. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. North Carolina Central only mustered 0.86 points per possession on 47% true shooting.

• UMES committed 12 unforced turnovers (16% of possessions)
• North Carolina Central recorded assists on 57% of attempted field goals
• Mahogany Lester led all game players in plus-minus with a +18

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on Feb. 26. UMES takes on South Carolina State at the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center, where the Hawks will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, North Carolina Central will try to turn things around when they take on MEAC foe Delaware State at McDougald-McLendon Arena.

HOWARD VS MORGAN STATE

Howard claimed a commanding 70-47 victory over Morgan State on Saturday afternoon. The Bison started by building up a 10-point halftime lead, and sealed the game by outscoring the Lady Bears 35-22 over the final 20 minutes.

Tyana Walker scored 21 points to lead the way for Howard. Walker was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 5-of-12 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Bison’s success, as 18 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.07 points scored per possession on 53% true shooting.

Morgan’s offense was led by Joelle Johnson, who scored 20 points. As a team, the Lady Bears shot 41% (19-of-46) from the field and 14% (1-of-7) from distance. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.7 points per possession on 45% true shooting.

• HU’s bench outscored Morgan’s bench 29 to 12
• Morgan State scored below 50 points for the 10th time this season
• One lead change and one tie were recorded in the game

Both teams take the floor again on Feb. 26. Howard takes on Coppin State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Morgan State will try to rebound when they host Norfolk State at Hill Field House.

ALABAMA A&M VS BETHUNE-COOKMAN

Alabama A&M handed Bethune-Cookman its fourth consecutive loss in a 63-58 contest at Moore Gymnasium on Saturday afternoon. The Bulldogs went into halftime with a 26-19 lead and were able to hold off the Wildcats for the final 20 minutes.

Amiah Simmons led the way for Alabama A&M, putting up a game-high 26 points. The Bulldogs’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating their 63 points on 35% shooting from the field. Their shooting woes were alleviated by a relentless pursuit on the boards. Their 19 offensive rebounds led to 15 big second chance points.

Chanel Wilson scored 14 points, while Kayla Clark added another 12 to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. As a team, the Wildcats had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.78 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. It was a forgettable game from three-point range as the team collectively shot 3-of-16 from deep.

• 55% of AAMU’s field goals were assisted
• Bethune-Cookman outscored Alabama A&M 32 to 20 in the paint
• Amiah Simmons led all game players in plus-minus with a +9

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Alabama A&M meets Florida A&M at the Al Lawson Center, where the Bulldogs will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Bethune-Cookman will try to rebound when they face struggling Alabama State at Moore Gymnasium.

FLORIDA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Florida A&M ended its two-game losing skid, defeating Alabama State in a 70-66 contest on Saturday afternoon at the Al Lawson Center. The Lady Rattlers went into halftime with a 38-32 lead and were able to hold off the Lady Hornets for the final 20 minutes.

Sydney Hendrix secured their first 20-point scoring game of the season, putting up 22 points to lead Florida A&M. The Lady Rattlers’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 15 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 16 points (76% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.97 points scored per possession on 49% true shooting.

Alabama State was led by Cordasia Harris, who recorded 20 points and nine boards. The Lady Hornets shot 22-of-56 from the field and 3-of-12 from behind the arc. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.9 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

• Florida A&M recorded a new season-high five blocks
• Alabama State scored a season-high 32 first half points
• The game had three lead changes and four ties

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on Feb. 26. Florida A&M welcomes Alabama A&M to the Al Lawson Center, where the Lady Rattlers will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to rebound when they take on SWAC foe Bethune-Cookman at Moore Gymnasium.

GRAMBLING STATE VS SOUTHERN

Grambling State earned an impressive SWAC win on Saturday afternoon, taking down Southern by a score of 59-57. The Lady Tigers went into halftime trailing 33-27 but outscored the Lady Jaguars by eight points in the second half to come back and win.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for Grambling State. Zayla Tinner led the scoring with 13 points. Jordyn Carter added 12, while Kahia Warmsley also contributed 10 points. The Lady Tigers’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 21 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 14 points (58% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.88 points scored per possession on 52% true shooting.

Aleighyah Fontenot scored nine points, while Taylor Williams added another nine to lead the way for Southern. Collectively, the Lady Jaguars were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 37% of field goal attempts and 45% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Southern went 10-of-15.

• Grambling State committed 11 unforced turnovers (16% of possessions)
• SU’s bench outscored GSU’s bench 26 to 16
• 4,689 cheering fans showed up to the F.G. Clark Activity Center in attendance

Both teams have their next games on March 2. Grambling State takes on Florida A&M at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Lady Tigers will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Southern will try to rebound when they take on Bethune-Cookman at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

PRAIRIE VIEW A&M VS ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF

Prairie View A&M ended its five-game losing skid, defeating Arkansas-Pine Bluff in a 66-57 contest on Saturday afternoon at H.O. Clemmons Arena. The Lady Panthers got out to a 32-24 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Lady Lions again in the second half to come away with the victory.

Kayla Smith scored 20 points in an incredibly efficient 8-of-11 shooting performance to lead the way for Prairie View A&M. As a team, the Lady Panthers shot 52% from the field, 40% from behind the arc, and 45% from the free throw line. They were particularly effective at the rim, converting on 15-of-17 close range field goal attempts.

Arkansas-Pine Bluff was led by Maya Peat, who recorded 14 points and seven boards. As a team, the Lady Lions shot 39% (19-of-49) from the field and 25% (3-of-12) from distance. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Arkansas-Pine Bluff only mustered 0.85 points per possession on 46% true shooting.

• Prairie View A&M recorded assists on a season-high 72% of made field goals
• Arkansas-Pine Bluff was plagued by five unforced turnovers (7% of possessions)
• Eight lead changes and six ties were recorded in the game

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. Prairie View A&M takes on Mississippi Valley State University at Harrison HPER Complex, where the Lady Panthers will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Arkansas-Pine Bluff will try to turn things around when they face a Texas Southern team also coming off a loss. They will meet at H.O. Clemmons Arena.

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE VS TEXAS SOUTHERN

Mississippi Valley State University handed Texas Southern its third consecutive loss in a 71-65 contest at Harrison HPER Complex on Saturday evening. The Devilettes went into halftime with a 37-26 lead and were able to hold off the Lady Tigers for the final 20 minutes.

Sh’Diamond McKnight was electric in this one, scoring 31 points to lead the way for Mississippi Valley State University. Despite McKnight’s performance, the team collectively struggled shooting the ball. They shot 36% from the field while scoring just 0.86 points per possession. Their shooting woes were alleviated by a relentless pursuit on the boards. Their 19 offensive rebounds led to 17 big second chance points.

Jaida Belton recorded 14 points and 12 rebounds to lead the way for Texas Southern. As a team, the Lady Tigers shot 39% (24-of-61) from the field and 24% (4-of-17) from distance. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Texas Southern only mustered 0.78 points per possession on 45% true shooting.

• MVSU’s defense buoyed their offense, scoring 28 points off of 25 Texas Southern turnovers
• Texas Southern recorded assists on 29% of attempted field goals
• The Devilettes led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Mississippi Valley State University faces Prairie View A&M at Harrison HPER Complex, where the Devilettes will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Texas Southern will try to turn things around when they take on SWAC foe Arkansas-Pine Bluff at H.O. Clemmons Arena.

TENNESSEE STATE VS SIU EDWARDSVILLE

Tennessee State handed SIUE its third consecutive loss in a 75-65 contest at Gentry Center Complex on Saturday afternoon. The Lady Tigers went into the break leading by two points, and then outscored the Cougars 38-30 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Sanaa’ St. Andre scored 24 points while grabbing a season-high six boards to lead the way for Tennessee State. The Lady Tigers put a particular emphasis on generating easy looks close to the hoop, shooting 26-of-55 on two-pointers, including 40 points scored in the paint. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.98 points scored per possession on 50% true shooting.

Sofie Lowis recorded 14 points and five rebounds to lead the way for SIUE. As a team, the Cougars shot 38% (23-of-60) from the field and 39% (9-of-23) from distance. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. SIUE only mustered 0.84 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

• Tennessee State recorded a new season-high six blocks
• SIUE collected 11 steals, a season-best
• Lyric Cole led all game players in plus-minus with a +14

Tennessee State earned a good win against a tough OVC rival. The Lady Tigers will head to Little Rock for their next contest, a Feb. 29 matchup with Little Rock. SIUE’s recent struggles continued with its loss this afternoon. A Feb. 27 matchup with conference rival Eastern Ill. in Charleston is the Cougars’ next shot at a win.

MEN’S

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL VS MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE

North Carolina Central broke its streak of three consecutive losses, defeating UMES in an 88-55 rout on Saturday evening at McDougald-McLendon Arena. The Eagles started fast, accumulated a 14-point lead into the break. They didn’t let up in the second half either, increasing their lead to as large as 35 points.

Keishon Porter scored 22 points in an incredibly efficient 8-of-12 shooting performance to lead the way for North Carolina Central. The transition game was a big factor in the Eagles’ success, as 17 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.26 points scored per possession on 54% true shooting.

Troy Hupstead recorded 16 points and 10 rebounds, and Devon Ellis contributed another 14 points to pace UMES. Collectively, the Hawks were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 36% of field goal attempts and 14% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, UMES went 12-of-14.

• North Carolina Central outran UMES, outscoring them in transition 17 to 6
• UMES scored below 60 points for the eighth time this season
• The Eagles led from start to finish; there were zero lead changes or ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. North Carolina Central takes on conference rival Delaware State at McDougald-McLendon Arena, where the Eagles will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, UMES will try to rebound when they head to the Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center for a battle with South Carolina State.

NORFOLK STATE VS COPPIN STATE

Norfolk State recorded its third straight win, handing Coppin State a 68-66 loss at Physical Education Complex on Saturday evening. The Spartans’ lead was as large as 16 points in the first half, but they weren’t able to extend it any further. After a rough start, the Eagles played a competitive second half.

Tyrese Jenkins scored 21 points to lead the way for Norfolk State. Jenkins was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 7-of-10 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Spartans’ success, as 16 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.03 points scored per possession on 57% true shooting.

Malik Battle put up 27 points to lead Coppin State. The Eagles shot 16-of-49 (33%) from the field in this one, including 11-of-29 (38%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 1.02 points per possession.

• Norfolk State recorded assists on a season-high 65% of made field goals
• Coppin State hit a new season-high 11 threes
• The teams combined to hit 20 threes

Both teams take the floor again on Feb. 26. Norfolk State takes on conference rival Morgan State at Hill Field House, where the Spartans will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Coppin State will try to turn things around when they meet a Howard side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at Burr Gymnasium.

HOWARD VS MORGAN STATE

Howard defeated Morgan State by a score of 78-72 at Burr Gymnasium on Saturday evening. The Bison went into halftime trailing 37-35 but outscored the Bears by eight points in the second half to come back and win.

Shy Odom, Seth Towns, and Bryce Harris led the way for Howard, contributing 16, 15, and 12 points, respectively. The Bison’s ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 22 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 24 points (86% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.02 points scored per possession on 59% true shooting.

Morgan State was led by Kamron Hobbs, who put up 15 points. The Bears shot 26-of-57 (46%) from the field in this one, including 4-of-11 (36%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.94 points per possession on 54% true shooting.

• HU’s bench outscored Morgan’s bench 23 to 13
• Morgan State outscored Howard 26 to 16 on points off turnovers
• 2,064 cheering fans showed up to Burr Gymnasium in attendance

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. Howard takes on conference rival Coppin State at Burr Gymnasium, where the Bison will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Morgan State will be thankful to return home when they take on Norfolk State at Hill Field House.

FLORIDA A&M VS ALABAMA STATE

Florida A&M broke its streak of six consecutive losses, defeating Alabama State in a 73-65 thriller on Saturday evening at the Al Lawson Center. The Hornets went into halftime with a six-point lead, but the Rattlers would not go down without a fight. The sides exchanged the lead five times over the final 20 minutes, with Florida A&M able to do just enough to come out on top.

Keith Lamar scored 22 points to lead the way for Florida A&M. That performance included an impressive 18 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. Florida A&M’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 60% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.3 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 29% shooting and 0.71 points per possession in the first half.

Alabama State was led by Antonio “TJ” Madlock, who scored 20 points while collecting eight boards. As a team, the Hornets had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.93 points per possession on 32% shooting from the field. It was a forgettable game from three-point range as the team collectively shot 3-of-20 from deep.

• Florida A&M recorded a new season-high six blocks
• Alabama State outscored Florida A&M 15 to 5 on second chance points
• The game had six lead changes and five ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 26. Florida A&M takes on conference rival Alabama A&M at the Al Lawson Center, where the Rattlers will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Alabama State will try to rebound when they take on Bethune-Cookman at Moore Gymnasium.

BETHUNE-COOKMAN VS ALABAMA A&M

Bethune-Cookman snapped Alabama A&M’s three-game win streak in thrilling fashion on Saturday evening, handing it a 63-61 loss at Moore Gymnasium. The Wildcats went into halftime with an eight-point lead, which was enough to survive the Bulldogs’ second half push.

Zion Harmon scored 15 points to lead the way for Bethune-Cookman. The Wildcats’ offense was able to overcome shooting struggles in this one, accumulating their 63 points on 35% shooting from the field. However, they did maximize their opportunities, turning the ball over just 11 times (14% of possessions).

Jayland Randall led the way for Alabama A&M, scoring 17 points. The Bulldogs shot 21-of-42 (50%) from the field in this one, including 4-of-9 (44%) from the three-point line. That netted out to an average of 0.93 points per possession.

• 53% of BCU’s field goals were assisted
• Alabama A&M recorded assists on a season-high 90% of made field goals
• Zion Harmon recorded a game-high +7 plus-minus

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Bethune-Cookman takes on conference rival Alabama State at Moore Gymnasium, where the Wildcats will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Alabama A&M will try to rebound when they meet a Florida A&M side riding the momentum from a win in its last outing. That one will be played at the Al Lawson Center

ALCORN STATE VS JACKSON STATE

Alcorn State defeated Jackson State on Saturday afternoon in a dynamic 87-73 overtime affair. Alcorn State went into halftime with a 36-34 lead, but Jackson State fought back to tie things up at the end of regulation. The Tigers could not finish the job though, as they were outscored 22-8 in overtime.

Byron Joshua scored 21 points to lead the way for Alcorn State. That performance included an impressive 10 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, Alcorn State shot 30-of-59 from the field and 20-of-23 from the line to put up an average of 1.23 points per possession.

Keionte Cornelius put up 19 points to lead Jackson State. The Tigers shot 28-of-57 from the field and 8-of-21 from behind the arc. That netted out to an average of 0.97 points per possession.

• Alcorn State recorded a new season-high five blocks
• Jackson State struggled on the boards with just 23 total rebounds, a season-worst
• Jeremiah Kendall recorded a game-high +18 plus-minus

Both teams take the floor again on March 2. Alcorn State meets Prairie View A&M at William J. Nicks Building, where the Braves will hope their success follows them. Meanwhile, Jackson State will try to rebound when they head to Health & Physical Education Arena for a battle with Texas Southern.

TEXAS SOUTHERN VS MISSISSIPPI VALLEY STATE

Texas Southern claimed a commanding 73-52 victory over Mississippi Valley State University on Saturday evening. The Tigers started fast, accumulated a 12-point lead into the break. They didn’t let up in the second half either, increasing their lead to as large as 23 points.

PJ Henry scored 16 points to lead the way for Texas Southern. Henry was particularly effective from three-point land, knocking down 4-of-6 attempts. The transition game was a big factor in the Tigers’ success, as 17 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.05 points scored per possession on 60% true shooting.

Danny Washington put up 17 points to lead Mississippi Valley State University. The Delta Devils shot 17-of-45 (38%) from the field in this one, including 3-of-15 (20%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Mississippi Valley State University only mustered 0.78 points per possession on 46% true shooting.

• Texas Southern recorded a new season-high 12 steals
• Mississippi Valley State University was plagued by eight unforced turnovers (12% of possessions)
• Grayson Carter led all game players in plus-minus with a +19

Each team has its next game on Feb. 26. Texas Southern takes on conference rival Arkansas-Pine Bluff at H.O. Clemmons Arena, where the Tigers will look to continue their road success. Meanwhile, Mississippi Valley State University will try to turn its home stand around when they face struggling Prairie View A&M at Harrison HPER Complex.

GRAMBLING STATE VS SOUTHERN

Grambling State recorded its third straight win in dramatic fashion on Saturday evening at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, defeating Southern 63-57. The Tigers trailed by as many as 14 points in the second half but made an improbable comeback to win the game.

Terrence Lewis scored 16 points to lead the way for Grambling State. Tra’Michael Moton was pivotal as well, shooting 4-of-9 in the second half for 10 points to power the Tigers forward after the break. Grambling State’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 54% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.31 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 43% shooting and 0.73 points per possession in the first half.

Brandon Davis led the way for Southern, scoring 12 points. The Jags shot 21-of-51 (41%) from the field in this one, including 8-of-21 (38%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Southern only mustered 0.94 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

• Grambling State recorded assists on a season-high 73% of made field goals
• Southern recorded a new season-low three steals
• 7,198 cheering fans showed up to the F.G. Clark Activity Center in attendance

Both teams take the floor again on March 2. Grambling State faces Florida A&M at the FCH Assembly Center, where the Tigers will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Southern will try to turn its home stand around when they take on Bethune-Cookman at the F.G. Clark Activity Center.

ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF VS PRAIRIE VIEW A&M

Arkansas-Pine Bluff handed Prairie View A&M its third consecutive loss in a 72-59 contest at H.O. Clemmons Arena on Saturday evening. The Golden Lions went into the break leading by 12 points, and then outscored the Panthers 33-32 over the final 20 minutes to secure the win.

Ismael Plet, Rashad Williams, and Lonnell Martin led the way for Arkansas-Pine Bluff, contributing 15, 13, and 12 points, respectively. The Golden Lions’ ability to generate opportunities at the charity stripe was crucial to their success. They drew 20 personal fouls on the defense, which led to 18 points (86% shooting) from the free throw line. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.97 points scored per possession on 58% true shooting.

Charles Lane Jr. led the way for Prairie View A&M, scoring 24 points. The Panthers shot 22-of-57 (39%) from the field in this one, including 5-of-23 (22%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. Prairie View A&M only mustered 0.84 points per possession on 46% true shooting.

• Arkansas-Pine Bluff outscored Prairie View A&M in the paint 28 to 18
• Prairie View A&M scored below 60 points for the sixth time this season
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Golden Lions leading the entire game

Neither side will have much time to rest before its next game, as both play next on Feb. 26. Arkansas-Pine Bluff welcomes Texas Southern to H.O. Clemmons Arena, where the Golden Lions will look to earn another win at home. Meanwhile, Prairie View A&M will try to rebound when they face a Mississippi Valley State University team also coming off a loss. They will meet at Harrison HPER Complex.

HAMPTON VS NORTHEASTERN

Hampton’s two-game win streak was snapped by Northeastern on Saturday afternoon, losing 70-62 loss at Matthews Arena. The Huskies went into halftime with an 18-point lead. Despite being outscored 40-30 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Pirates and hold on for the win.

Tedrick Wilcox Jr. scored 19 points, while Ja’Von Benson added another 18 to lead the way for Hampton. Collectively, the Pirates were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 32% of field goal attempts and 24% of three-point attempts. From the free throw line, Hampton went 15-of-18.

Chris Doherty scored 21 points in an incredibly efficient 8-of-12 shooting performance to lead the way for Northeastern. As a team, the Huskies shot 46% from the field, 22% from behind the arc, and 89% from the free throw line. They were particularly effective at the rim, converting on 16-of-22 close range field goal attempts.

• Northeastern outscored Hampton in the paint 36 to 24
• Hampton started slow, scoring a season-low 22 first half points
• The game had two lead changes and two ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 29. Northeastern meets Delaware at the Bob Carpenter Center, where the Huskies will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, Hampton will try to rebound when they take on CAA foe Monmouth at the Convocation Center.

NORTH CAROLINA A&T VS MONMOUTH

North Carolina A&T falls to Monmouth 83-67 on Saturday afternoon. It was even more one-sided than the score line indicates, as the Hawks led by as many as 22 points.

North Carolina A&T was led by Landon Glasper, who scored 27 points while collecting five boards. Collectively, the Aggies were inefficient on offense. They converted on just 28% of field goal attempts and 35% of three-point attempts. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 18% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

Xander Rice and Klemen Vuga led the scoring for Monmouth, each contributing 12 points. The transition game was a big factor in the Hawks’ success, as 24 of the team’s points came on the fast break. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 1.18 points scored per possession on 54% true shooting.

• Monmouth scored a season-high 45 points off the bench
• North Carolina A&T was plagued by four unforced turnovers (6% of possessions)
• The teams combined to hit 16 threes

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 29. Monmouth takes on conference rival Hampton at the Convocation Center, where the Hawks will look for a repeat of their success here this afternoon. Meanwhile, North Carolina A&T will be thankful to return home when they take on Towson at the Ellis Corbett Sports Center.

TENNESSEE STATE VS SIU EDWARDSVILLE

Tennessee State snapped SIUE’s three-game win streak on Saturday afternoon, handing it a 76-71 loss at Gentry Center Complex. The Tigers went into halftime with an 11-point lead. Despite being outscored 46-40 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Cougars and hold on for the win.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for Tennessee State. Michael Shanks led the scoring with 16 points. Marcus Fitzgerald Jr. added 15, while Kinyon Hodges also contributed 11 points. The Tigers made a concerted effort to absorb contact and convert it into points. They drew 25 fouls on the defense, which led to a season-high 29 points on 74% shooting from the charity stripe. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.99 points scored per possession on 60% true shooting.

SIUE was led by Damarco Minor, who scored 31 points while collecting 12 boards. As a team, the Cougars had some offensive struggles, scoring just 0.92 points per possession on 36% shooting from the field. They were heavily challenged on field goal attempts in the paint, scoring just 37% of their total points on those shot attempts near the hoop.

• Tennessee State outran SIUE, outscoring them in transition 29 to 19
• The game pace (possessions per 40 minutes) of 76.7 was a season-high for SIUE
• Kinyon Hodges recorded a game-high +9 plus-minus

Tennessee State earned a good win against a tough OVC rival. The Tigers’ next test is a matchup with Little Rock, which also won its last game, at the Jack Stephens Center on Feb. 29. This loss was a rare slip-up for SIUE, which had been playing well recently. The Cougars’ next game is against an Eastern Ill. side that is also recovering from a recent loss. They will square off on Feb. 27 at Lantz Arena.

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MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE VS NORFOLK STATE — MEN

Maryland Eastern Shore took down Norfolk State, one of the MEAC’s top teams, by a score of 69-60 on Monday evening. The Hawks got out to a 28-27 lead by halftime, and then came out and outscored the Spartans again in the second half to come away with the victory.

Devon Ellis scored 20 points in an incredibly efficient 8-of-10 shooting performance to lead the way for UMES. The Hawks made a concerted effort to absorb contact and convert it into points. They drew 22 fouls on the defense, which led to a season-high 22 points on 73% shooting from the charity stripe. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.97 points scored per possession on 53% true shooting.

Tyrel Bladen put up 16 points to lead Norfolk State. As a team, the Spartans shot 40% (24-of-60) from the field and 20% (4-of-20) from distance. A major factor in the loss was their subpar offensive efficiency. They scored just 0.86 points per possession on 44% true shooting.

• UMES’s bench outscored Norfolk’s bench 17 to 6
• Norfolk State recorded assists on 38% of attempted field goals
• Devon Ellis led all game players in plus-minus with a +15

UMES will face Bryn Athyn at home on Feb. 10, where the Hawks will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Norfolk State will try to rebound when they host South Carolina State on Feb. 17 at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall.

ALABAMA A&M VS BETHUNE-COOKMAN — MEN

Alabama A&M took down one of the SWAC’s top teams, Bethune-Cookman, in a back-and-forth 72-68 thriller on Monday evening. The Wildcats went into halftime with a one-point lead, but the Bulldogs would not go down without a fight. The sides exchanged the lead 11 times over the final 20 minutes, with Alabama A&M able to do just enough to come out on top.

Omari Peek scored 16 points to lead the way for Alabama A&M. That performance included an impressive 11 points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. Alabama A&M’s offense as a whole came out of the break with new energy. They shot 52% from the field in the second half, scoring 1.21 points per possession. This was a big improvement from their 40% shooting and 0.9 points per possession in the first half.

Jakobi Heady led the way for Bethune-Cookman, scoring 16 points. The Wildcats shot 22-of-53 (42%) from the field in this one, including 7-of-22 (32%) from the three-point line. That contributed to their game average of 0.97 points per possession on 54% true shooting.

• AAMU’s bench outscored BCU’s bench 44 to 16
• Bethune-Cookman struggled on the boards with just 24 total rebounds, a season-worst
• 2,019 cheering fans showed up to the Event Center in attendance

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 10. Alabama A&M takes on a confident Southern squad at the F.G. Clark Activity Center, where the Bulldogs will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, Bethune-Cookman will try to rebound when they take on Prairie View A&M at Moore Gymnasium.

NORFOLK STATE VS MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE — WOMEN

Norfolk State recorded its fifth straight win in dominating fashion, handing UMES an 80-59 loss at the Hytche Center on Monday evening. The Spartans started fast, accumulated a 22-point lead into the break. They didn’t let up in the second half either, increasing their lead to as large as 23 points.

Diamond Johnson scored 29 points to lead the way for Norfolk State. Johnson was dangerous from three-point land, connecting on 5-of-6 attempts. Johnson was not the sole contributor though. The Spartans’ offense delivered from many fronts, pouring in 1.16 points per possession on 58% shooting from the field. That offensive output included 6-of-14 shooting from beyond the arc and 14-of-17 shooting on free throws.

Zamara Haynes led the way for UMES, scoring 14 points. The Hawks shot 22-of-53 (42%) from the field in this one, including 6-of-19 (32%) from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. UMES only mustered 0.83 points per possession on 48% true shooting.

• Norfolk State set a season-best in field goal percentage at 58%
• UMES recorded a season-low zero blocks
• There were zero lead changes or ties, with the Spartans leading the entire game

Both teams take the floor again on Feb. 17. Norfolk State meets South Carolina State at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall, where the Spartans will look for a repeat of their success here this evening. Meanwhile, UMES will hope for a better result on the road when they head to Hill Field House for a battle with Morgan State.

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL VS MORGAN STATE — WOMEN

North Carolina Central recorded its third straight win, handing Morgan State a 66-65 loss at McDougald-McLendon Arena on Monday evening. The Eagles went into halftime with a nine-point lead. Despite being outscored 35-27 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Lady Bears and hold on for the win.

This win was led by a balanced scoring effort for North Carolina Central. Morgan Callahan led the scoring with 17 points. Aniya Finger added 15, while Kyla Bryant also contributed 12 points. The Eagles put a particular emphasis on generating easy looks close to the hoop, shooting 21-of-42 on two-pointers, including 38 points scored in the paint. Efficiency metrics evaluated the offense at an average of 0.96 points scored per possession on 51% true shooting.

Amari Smith recorded 15 points and six rebounds to lead the way for Morgan State. As a team, the Lady Bears shot 38% (25-of-65) from the field and 27% (4-of-15) from distance. That netted out to an average of 0.95 points per possession.

• North Carolina Central committed 11 unforced turnovers (16% of possessions)
• Morgan State was plagued by five unforced turnovers (7% of possessions)
• The game had five lead changes and three ties

Both teams have their next games on Feb. 17. North Carolina Central takes on a confident Howard squad at Burr Gymnasium, where the Eagles will look to extend their winning streak. Meanwhile, Morgan State will be thankful to return home when they face an UMES team also coming off a loss. They will meet at Hill Field House.

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Check out the stats, trends, and key metrics for the upcoming MEAC games on Saturday, January 27th, 2024.

MEAC WOMEN

Morgan State vs. Howard

Morgan State | OVR 5-12 | MEAC 1-2 (7th) | HOME 3-3

Second chances have become more frequent for Morgan State recently. The Lady Bears have averaged 15.8 offensive rebounds per game in their last five games, an increase from their season average of 13.9.

Defensive rebounding has been a challenge for the Lady Bears when playing at home this season. Morgan State is averaging only 22.8 defensive rebounds per game on its home court.

Howard | OVR 5-12 | MEAC 2-1 (3rd) | AWAY 2-6

Howard has maintained its focus shooting free throws in front of raucous opposing crowds. The Bison are making 74.8% of their free-throw attempts away from home.

Boxing out has been a recent focus for Howard. In their last five games, the Bison have managed an average of 27.0 defensive rebounds.

Key Metrics

• Look for Morgan State to get out quickly in this one. The Lady Bears average 35.5 first-half points per game, which ranks second in the MEAC (conference average is 31.4).
• Howard averages 0.82 points per possession for the season. This ranks fourth in the MEAC (conference average is 0.83).

Delaware State vs. South Carolina State

Memorial Hall will be the host for an exciting HBCU clash between Delaware State and South Carolina State on Saturday afternoon. The Hornets emerged victorious against the Lady Bulldogs in their last meeting at Memorial Hall in February 2023, with a final score of 50-49.

Delaware State | OVR 5-10 | MEAC 1-1 (5th) | HOME 3-3

Delaware State has demonstrated exceptional accuracy from beyond the arc at Memorial Hall, where it has successfully converted 35.3% of its three-point attempts.

The Hornets have a season average of 1.5 blocks per game. They are led by McKenzie Stewart, who has blocked five shots on the year (26th in the MEAC).

South Carolina State | OVR 1-17 | MEAC 0-3 (8th) | AWAY 0-11

Morgan Beacham has been a leader for the Lady Bulldogs thus far this year on the offensive side of the ball. Beacham comes in averaging 8.2 points per game and currently ranks 16th in the MEAC for total points.

The Lady Bulldogs’ defensive effort has yet to reach its full potential. South Carolina State has recorded a modest average of only 6.3 steals per road game.

Key Metrics

• Delaware State has a propensity to run and get out on the break. The Hornets play at the second-fastest pace in the MEAC, averaging 73.0 possessions per 40 minutes (MEAC average is 70.9).
• South Carolina State tends to start hot. The team averages 32.7 first-half points per game, third best in the MEAC (conference average is 31.8).

UMES vs. North Carolina Central

UMES | OVR 8-10 | MEAC 1-2 (6th) | HOME 6-2

The crowd at the Hytche Center has served as a catalyst for UMES’s offense. The Hawks net an impressive average of 15.0 second-chance points per home game.

Points have not come easy against UMES lately. In their last five contests, the Hawks have held opponents to 33.8% shooting from the floor.

North Carolina Central | OVR 8-10 | MEAC 2-1 (4th) | AWAY 3-9

Recently, North Carolina Central has notably boosted its scoring. While the team has averaged 69.0 over the season, its output has climbed to 76.6 points per game in its last five outings.

The Eagles’ rim protection has been impressive on the road this season. As the visiting team, they are averaging 3.5 blocks per game.

Key Metrics

• UMES is a great second-half team. The Hawks average 30.9 second-half points per game, which is third-best in the MEAC (conference average is 26.2).
• North Carolina Central tends to start hot. The team averages 35.8 first-half points per game, the best in the MEAC (conference average is 31.3).

Norfolk State vs. Coppin St.

Norfolk State | OVR 13-5 | MEAC 2-1 (2nd) | HOME 3-0

Dominating the offensive glass has been a hallmark of Norfolk State’s play at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall. In their home games, the Spartans are securing an average of 16.7 offensive rebounds per game.

The Spartans steal the ball from their opponents on average 12.6 times per game. That disruptive effort is led by Niya Fields, who has swiped 45 steals thus far this season (first in the MEAC).

Coppin St. | OVR 5-11 | MEAC 2-0 (1st) | AWAY 3-6

Faith Blackstone led Coppin St. in the team’s last matchup against Morgan State, scoring 16 points. Blackstone made a concerted effort to draw fouls, ultimately converting on 8-of-9 attempts at the free throw line. For the year, Blackstone’s season averages are at 12.3 points per game and 3.6 free throws made per game.

The Eagles have delivered a series of impressive defensive performances away from home this season. As the visitor, Coppin St. has held home teams to just 62.1 points per game.

Key Metrics

• Norfolk State prioritizes taking care of the ball. The Spartans average just 14.8 turnovers per game, which ranks as the fewest per game in the MEAC this season (conference average is 17.6 turnovers per game).
• Coppin St. runs a deliberate, slow-paced offense. The team averages just 68.2 possessions per 40 minutes, which ranks as the second-slowest in the MEAC. The Eagles score approximately 0.78 points per possession in their methodical offensive approach.

MEAC MEN

Delaware State vs. South Carolina State

Delaware State | OVR 9-9 | MEAC 3-0 (1st) | HOME 4-2

Delaware State’s recent shot distribution shows a limited emphasis on long-range shooting, with the Hornets attempting an average of just 15.0 three-pointers per game in their last five outings.

Defensive rebounding has been a challenge for the Hornets when playing at home this season. Delaware State is averaging only 23.5 defensive rebounds per game on its home court.

South Carolina State | OVR 5-14 | MEAC 1-2 (5th) | AWAY 0-11

In South Carolina State’s last matchup, Michael Teal scored 17 points and dished out six assists to orchestrate the offense. Teal now comes into this matchup averaging 6.9 points and 2.4 assists per game.

During the Bulldogs’ last five games, they have struggled with their defensive rebounding, securing an average of only 19.4 per game.

Key Metrics

• Delaware State plays at the third-fastest pace in the MEAC. The team averages 71.2 possessions per 40 minutes (MEAC average is 70.0) and scores approximately 0.94 points per possession.
• South Carolina State tends to finish games strong. The Bulldogs average 40.6 second-half points per game. This number is the highest in the MEAC (conference average is 36.5).

UMES vs. North Carolina Central

UMES | OVR 3-12 | MEAC 1-3 (8th) | HOME 3-1

Troy Hupstead led UMES with 27 points on 10-of-15 shooting in the team’s last matchup against Delaware State. Hupstead (first on UMES, 16th in MEAC in total points) will look to keep the scoring up against the Eagles’ defense.

Defensive rebounding has been a challenge for the Hawks when playing at home this season. UMES is averaging only 24.3 defensive rebounds per game on its home court.

North Carolina Central | OVR 10-8 | MEAC 2-1 (3rd) | AWAY 3-6

North Carolina Central will hope this contest marks the end of its poor three-point shooting away from home. Opposing crowds have frazzled the Eagles into shooting just 25.8% from distance.

The Eagles have a season average of 3.1 blocks per game. They are led by Emmanuel Izunabor, who has blocked 21 shots on the year (first in the MEAC).

Key Metrics

• UMES prioritizes taking care of the ball. The Hawks average just 13.5 turnovers per game, which ranks as the third-fewest per game in the MEAC this season (conference average is 14.5 turnovers per game).
• North Carolina Central tends to finish games strong. The Eagles average 39.4 second-half points per game. This number is the second highest in the MEAC (conference average is 36.7).

Norfolk State vs. Coppin St.

Norfolk State | OVR 11-8 | MEAC 2-1 (2nd) | HOME 5-0

Jamarii Thomas led Norfolk State in the team’s last matchup against Howard, scoring 14 points on 5-of-11 shooting. Thomas now comes into this matchup averaging 17.2 points per game on 43.8% shooting for the season.

The Spartans have proven to be a formidable defensive force at home this season, as they’ve held visiting teams at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall to an impressive 38.0% field goal accuracy.

Coppin St. | OVR 2-15 | MEAC 1-2 (7th) | AWAY 0-11

The crowd at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Hall may have an impact against Coppin St., which only averages 51.9 points per game on the road this season.

The Eagles come in with season averages of 3.1 blocks per game and 8.5 steals per game. Toto Fagbenle has been their individual blocks leader (1.3 per game) while Aa’reyon Munir-Jones has led them in steals (1.5 per game).

Key Metrics

• Norfolk State tends to start hot. The team averages 36.7 first-half points per game, the best in the MEAC (conference average is 31.1).
• Coppin St. runs a deliberate, slow-paced offense. The team averages just 67.9 possessions per 40 minutes, which ranks as the slowest in the MEAC. The Eagles score approximately 0.82 points per possession in their methodical offensive approach.

Morgan State vs. Howard

Morgan State | OVR 5-14 | MEAC 1-2 (5th) | HOME 4-3

Morgan State has been clinical from the field at home, boasting 50.0% accuracy on its field goal attempts at Hill Field House.

The Bears steal the ball from their opponents on average 6.3 times per game. That disruptive effort is led by Kamron Hobbs, who has swiped 23 steals thus far this season (10th in the MEAC).

Howard | OVR 8-12 | MEAC 2-2 (4th) | AWAY 3-7

Bryce Harris recorded a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds in Howard’s last game against Norfolk State. Harris has now recorded three double-doubles on the year (second in MEAC).

Howard will look to turn around its defensive struggles on the road. The Bison have let up 81.9 points per away game.

Key Metrics

• Morgan State has a propensity to run and get out on the break. The Bears play at the second-fastest pace in the MEAC, averaging 72.3 possessions per 40 minutes (MEAC average is 69.8).
• Howard tends to finish games strong. The Bison average 39.3 second-half points per game. This number is the third highest in the MEAC (conference average is 36.7).

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“This was an incredible moment for us and this may have been the biggest win I have been a part of here as the head coach,” Crafton said. “I am proud of our guys and everything they have fought through to get to this point. They deserve all the credit and I am so happy we were able to deliver a victory tonight.”

Penn led by as many as seven in the first half, but Eastern Shore battled back and led 32-31 at halftime. The game was nip-and-tuck for the entire second half, and a 3-pointer by MDES in the final seconds sent it into overtime. Elijah Wilson hit that 3-pointer and what would be the game-winner with .9 seconds remaining in overtime.

Maryland Eastern Shore made some noise last season when it went on the road and knocked off Temple. It would go on to finish the season with an 18-13 record, one of the best in Division I school history. Many of those players are no longer with the program, but Jason Crafton and his team continue to show that gone are the days of penciling in a win over Eastern Shore. 

“We continue to get better. To be able to get a win against a quality program shows what we are capable off and where we are as a team. We challenged each player to stay within their roles and doing what they do best,” Crafton said. “Guys like Troy and Chace did a great job tonight while Elijah stepped in and made the big shots when his number was called. As we move forward, we will look towards another tough game at Notre Dame and what we can do to compete and try to come out with another win.”

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With plans for a new men’s volleyball team to compete starting in 2025-2026 in the NEC (Northeast Conference), UMES becomes the first NCAA Div. I HBCU to add men’s volleyball and the 68^th school to sponsor the fast-growing sport at the NCAA DI-II level. Several HBCUs in the SIAC offer the sport as well.

In addition, it was announced that a $250,000 grant from First Point Volleyball Foundation was obtained to aide in the establishment of the UMES men’s volleyball program.  The $250,000 will be granted over a period of three years to assist with start-up costs and to provide funding to UMES Athletics as they provide scholarship support, facility improvements and other services to men’s and women’s volleyball athletes. 

“We’re trailblazers in many ways at UMES” said President Anderson, “and this is yet another example of us carving a new path by adding men’s volleyball to our robust athletic program. With volleyball’s popularity on the rise everywhere it made sense to launch men’s volleyball. I think our community will join me in getting behind this dynamic sport, just as we have been strong supporters of our outstanding women’s team.”

In her second year as the leader of Hawk athletics, Owens is excited to bring a sport she has overseen before to UMES.

“We successfully added men’s volleyball at my previous institution and went on to have great success as Central State won a conference championship. The sport has a great amount of popularity and is a growing sport. I think our community will be blown away by the athleticism of this sport and the talent on the court,” said Owens.  “It is especially exciting to have the opportunity to compete in the NEC.  I would like to thank NEC Commissioner Noreen Morris for the invitation to play men’s volleyball in the NEC.  We look forward to the growth of the sport on the college level and will encourage our fellow institutions in the MEAC to explore the possibility of adding men’s volleyball.”

Since 2016, First Point Volleyball Foundation has helped start 40 new college programs that are now funding 80 new scholarships in men’s volleyball that did not exist before.  UMES intends to fund 4.5 scholarships which is the maximum allowed by the NCAA for DI-II men’s volleyball. A nationwide search for a head coach will commence immediately. 

The Co-Founder & volunteer chairman of First Point Volleyball Foundation is John Speraw who is both the Head Coach of UCLA Men’s Volleyball and also Head Coach of the US Men’s National team.  “We started First Point to support NCAA DI programs launching men’s volleyball and to provide more opportunities for young people to mature and develop through the sport… I am proud that our 25 volunteer Board of Directors has supported efforts to expand diversity and start men’s volleyball at HBCUs,” said Speraw.   “I want to thank all the volleyball donors who have made this grant possible.  I cannot emphasize enough the importance of philanthropy to the future of college sports especially Olympic sports.”  

“We have been so impressed by the vision and leadership of President Anderson and Vice President Owens.  First Point is honored to partner with an institution building momentum through athletics,” said Wade Garard, CEO of First Point Volleyball.  “It is a pleasure working with Tara (Owens) again to provide opportunities for young men to have a student-athlete experience at an HBCU and to compete in men’s volleyball on a national stage.” 

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PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland — The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) has elevated Tara Owens to Vice President of Athletics & Recreation, as announced today by UMES President Heidi M. Anderson on Wednesday.

Tara Owens, who was hired as the University’s Director of Athletics last fall, will now have an expanded role which includes the overall oversight of all UMES NCAA Div. I sponsored sports as well as all campus recreational activities.

“Under the vision and leadership of President Anderson, we continue to deliver immediate and lasting results that further benefit the student body. In this expanded role, my goal is to continue to serve the University of Maryland Eastern Shore while ensuring that our mission and goals are met,” Owens said.

Tara Owens previously served as the Director of Athletics at UMES since September 2022. Before joining UMES, Owens spent four years as the Director of Athletics at Central State University (CSU), where she significantly increased student-athlete growth and secured substantial funding for athletic facility renovations. Owens implemented improvements in staffing, protocols, and student-athlete engagement, leading CSU athletics to thrive.

Prior to CSU, she held leadership positions at Baltimore City Community College, Norfolk State University, and Elizabeth City State University. Owens is an accomplished coach and has served on various national committees and associations related to women’s basketball and athletics. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Virginia State University and a master’s degree from Cheyney University.

In less than a year at UMES, Owens has led the restructuring of the department of athletics which includes the hiring of three head coaches and three administrative staff members. Placing focus and priority on student-athlete resources and services, Owens has been at the forefront of the University’s project management and planning for upcoming renovations to the UMES softball and baseball fields. She has also implemented sustainable and financially beneficial protocols in order to position UMES for future success.

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It will be the Bison’s first finals appearance since 2002 and the first for fourth-year head coach Kenny Blakeney.Players on the Howard bench stand up anticipating a basket from long range. The Bison canned 7 of 21 3-pointers in their win.

The teams played a competitive first half, but the Bison came out hot after the break, outscoring the Hawks 48-33 over the final 20 minutes.

Six-eleven redshirt junior forward Steve Settle led the way for Howard with 16 points to go along with five boards. Freshman Shy Odom matched Settles’ 16 points and paced the Bison (21-12) off the boards with 10 rebounds. Marcus Dockery added 10 points while point guard Elijah Hawkins had eight points and a team-high six assists.

As a team, the Bison shot 46% from the field 26 of 56), 33% from behind the arc (7 of 21)o, and 60% from the free throw line. Conversely, UMES canned just 18 of 60 shots (30%) including only 3 of 21 shots (14.3%) from behind the arc. Howard also had a decided 46-32 rebounding edge.

Kevon Voyles scored nine points while Chace Davis added another nine to lead the way for UMES. The Hawks (18-13) forced 20 Howard turnovers but could not capitalize.

Howard awaits the winner of the 8 p.m. contest between two-time tournament champion and third-seed Norfolk State and second-seed North Carolina Central. Before NSU’s consecutive tournament titles, NCCU won three straight titles from 2017-2019.

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That lack of a winning culture has been hard to overcome. But Crafton and his 2022-23 team are on the verge of turning that around. This season, his senior-laden team posted a 17-12 regular season record with a 9-5 mark in MEAC play. His Hawks tied with Norfolk State for third place in the regular season and entered Thursday’s quarterfinal tournament game seeded fourth.

Tha’s quite an improvement over last year’s 11-16 mark and 6-8 record in the MEAC. It’s a near complete turnaround from the 5-27, 4-20 mark during the 2019-20 season when Crafton took over. Between those seasons, the Hawks sat out the 2020-21 season because of the COVID-19 virus.

Seniors lead Maryland Eastern Shore as it faces top seed Howard

“It’s been a long road,” Crafton said after his Maryland Eastern Shore team posted an 80-64 win over fifth-seed Morgan State in Thursday’s first quarterfinal game to advance to Friday’s semifinal. They will meet top seed Howard (20-12, 11-3 MEAC) at 6 p.m. Friday. Graduate seniors Zion Styles with 19 points and Nathaniel Pollard Jr. with 13 points and a team-high nine rebounds led four Hawks that scored in double digits. The two vets accompanied Crafton in the postgame interview.

The Hawks will face a Howard team that they split games with this season. UMES won at home on Jan. 9, 82-73. The Bison won on their home floor 78-69 on Feb. 13.

“Since I took this thing over, these guys (Styles and Pollard) have been with me three years. Three others have been with me all four years. We’ve got a dynamic group of guys that have persevered, eight seniors (actually four grad seniors and four seniors).”

Pollard (2nd team) and Styles (3rd team) were all-MEAC selections.

“We’ve done it the old-fashioned way — retaining guys, get guys better and having unbelievable chemistry. We’re tight, we have veteran leadership and we’re united.”

The main thing in the turnaround

“The most difficult job in getting things turned around is that there was no winning tradition,” Crafton said, “not a lot of reference points. We’re on a mission to be the first team in the history of the Div. I program to go to the Div. I (NCAA) tournament. We’re creating everything as we go. So the most difficult thing has been just fighting the lack of culture that’s been here and trying to create a culture on the fly.  You do that by bringing in the right people.

“We had a season taken, couldn’t practice, couldn’t go five-on-five. But we came back with an edge. We did not just want to get here. We want win it and change the culture.”

The last time the Hawks made the MEAC finals was 1999 when they lost to Florida A&M. The only MEAC title for UMES was in 1974.

“It’s not an easy situation,” Crafton added. “It’s not easy to win at Maryland Eastern Shore. It hasn’t been for a lot of people that’s why there’s only been five winning seasons in the last 50 years.

“Our program has been rated dead last in the country in multiple years in multiple categories. Getting this program out of the first round is a huge accomplishment. But we’re not done yet.”

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Saturday evening was a battle between two of the top teams in the MEAC. Norfolk State came out on top, handing UMES a 76-73 loss. The Spartans went into halftime with a nine-point lead. Despite being outscored 41-35 in the second half, they were able to fend off the Hawks and hold on for the win.

Joe Bryant led the way for Norfolk, putting up 25 points to go along with five boards. Bryant was just a cog in a complete offensive performance for the Spartans. The team shot 47% from the field while scoring 1.08 points per possession. They clearly placed an emphasis on putting up deep shots, knocking down 10-of-23 three-point attempts.

The Hawks played well offensively in this one. They averaged 1.03 points per possession on 42% shooting from field. Da’Shawn Phillip led the way, putting up 20 points. It wasn’t enough though, as UMES was unable to gather the momentum to get past the Spartans.

Both teams face their next test on Feb. 14. Norfolk State takes on Delaware State in a conference clash, while UMES readies for battle against a Howard team who is playing great lately. The Spartans will look to continue their solid play in their return home. On the other side, the Hawks hope for a rebound performance on the road.

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“I got guys who are seniors that were here playing against Baylor, played against Oklahoma,” Crafton said. “So we’re never going to back down. I think the culture showed to close that game out. That’s culture right there and that’s what we’re building. You don’t win that game off just making shots because we didn’t make threes tonight. We won that game just off of culture –  grit – and staying true to our way to close the game out. We never gave in.”

The 59-51 win over NC Central gave Eastern Shore an 11-8 record – tying the win total from the 2021-22 season. More importantly, it put MDES in a three-way tie for first place in the MEAC along with Howard and Morgan State.

That’s no small feat for a program that was one of the handful of Division I programs that didn’t play during the 2020-2021 season and won just 45 games in the five seasons prior to that. A deeper look at MDES history reveals that the school has just one MEAC tournament title since helping form the league back in 1970. 

Maryland Eastern Shore opened some eyes in non-conference, knocking off Temple and Columbia in December. It is currently off to its best start in over a quarterer century.

MDES leads with defense, as they are holding opponents to 64.8 points per game in MEAC play – second behind NC Central. 

“We’re in a tough league, so all the teams in our league play a tough brand of basketball,” Crafton said. “We were fortunate to be a team that played a little bit tougher, that when it mattered down the stretch. It’s nothing special. It’s just holding kids accountable, trying to bring in the right kids. And when the right kids sometimes do the wrong things, hold them accountable. Then sometimes it’s not coming from the coach, sometimes it’s coming from the players.”

The Hawks came into the season predicted to finish sixth in the eight-team league. They are undersized even by MEAC standards, with 6’8 freshman Victor Naboya as the tallest member of the squad. What they lack in height they make up for in toughness and togetherness. The team can be seen locking arms as they stand on the sideline during timeouts, and that’s by design. 

“When we’re locking arms, that’s just not the brotherhood right there,” Crafton said. “These guys love each other. We have our ups and our downs. We’re a team, and that happens. And we’ve had moments in that game. But those guys found a way to stay together. So locking arms, that’s what we do regardless of the situation. Up, down, whatever, that’s just the standard and that’s our culture. And our culture won tonight against a team that’s got a lot of culture.”

MDES is set to take on Coppin State and Morgan State this weekend.

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UMES senior guard DaShawn Phillips stole a long pass into the NCCU backcourt and hit a twisting layup to tie the game at 58 as he was fouled with 22.4 seconds to play. He sank the free throw to give UMES its only lead of the game. Phillips’ points were the last of an 8-0 Hawks’ run to close out the game after trailing 58-51 with 1:22 left. 

NC Central leads and gets last chance

After an NCCU timeout, guard Justin Wright dribbled the clock down before trying a contested driving layup with just :01 second left. NCCU got its hands on the rebound as the clock expired. 

The matchup was between teams with identical 10-8 overall, and 3-1 MEAC marks. They were two of five conference teams tied at the top of the league with 3-1 records. 

NCCU (10-9, 3-2) led early 9-0, had a 33-20 halftime lead and maintained a double-digit lead halfway through the second half. UMES (11-8, 4-1) closed to within 46-41 on a Phillips 3-pointer at the 8:55 mark. But NCCU built the lead back to nine at 54-45, on an inside basket by 7-foot center Brenden Medley-Bacon. 

MDES closes in a flurry

Donchevell Nugent’s 3-pointer with 3:36 left cut the NCCU lead to 56-48. UMES closed to 56-51 on a two Nathaniel Pollard Jr. free throws. But Eric Boone then beat the shot clock to score on a runner in the lane to push the lead to 58-51. 

Zion Styles swished a 3-pointer with 40.5 seconds left to cut the lead to 58-54. Pollard then stole an NCCU pass at midcourt and drove for a basket to pull the Hawks within 58-56 with :28 ticks on the clock. 

NCCU called timeout and then threw the ball deep into the backcourt that Phillips intercepted for the game-winning play. 

NC Central’s downfall

NCCU was done in by 24 turnovers, none more costly than the final one that decided the game. Justin Wright had 19 points to lead the Eagles. Medley-Bacon had 11 points, seven of the Eagies first nine points to open the game. Eric Boone added nine points and a game-high 13 rebounds.

Styles and Nugent both had 13 points to lead MDES. Pollard had nine points and led the Hawks off the boards with nine rebounds. MDES has never won an MEAC title. The Hawks have now won four straight MEAC contests after losing its conference opener to Norfolk State. The Hawks had 12 steals in the game.

In another match of conference leaders in Baltimore Monday, Morgan State led wire to wire in knocking off two-time defending champion Norfolk State, 77-71. Howard won at Coppin State, 90-76. Howard, Morgan State and UMES are now tied at the top of the MEAC with 4-1 conference records. 

NCCU is at Howard Saturday. UMES will host Coppin State Saturday.

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Maryland Eastern Shore recorded its fourth straight win in dramatic fashion, handing North Carolina Central a 59-58 loss in a comeback effort at McDougald-McLendon Arena on Monday night. It looked out of reach for UMES, who were down by as many as 16 in the second half. However, its incredible late effort was enough to secure the win.

Donchevell Nugent scored 13 points to lead the way for Maryland Eastern Shore. That performance included an impressive nine points in the second half to ignite the team down the stretch. As a team, UMES shot 12-of-33 from the field in the second half, scoring 1.12 points per possession on average.

Justin Wright recorded 19 points and five rebounds to lead the way for NCCU against Maryland Eastern Shore. The Eagles went 23-of-52 from the field in this one, including 2-of-15 from the three-point line. Their shooting was part of larger offensive struggles that contributed to the loss. North Carolina Central only mustered 0.8 points per possession on 49% true shooting.

Both teams face their next test on Jan. 28. UMES takes on Coppin St., while North Carolina Central squares off with a Howard side riding high from a victory in its last outing. The Hawks will look to continue their solid play in their return home. On the other side, the Eagles hope for a rebound performance on the road.

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UMES gave Delaware State its 15th consecutive loss in a 68-66 barnburner at Hytche Center on Saturday evening. It was a thrilling game that saw 18 lead changes.

Zion Styles led the way for UMES, putting up 15 points. Styles was just a cog in a complete offensive performance for the Hawks. The team shot 47% from the field while scoring 1.1 points per possession. They clearly placed an emphasis on putting up deep shots, knocking down 13-of-28 three-point attempts.

The Hornets’ offensive efficiency was impressive despite the result. They averaged 1 point per possession on 52% true shooting. Martaz Robinson led the way, putting up 24 points to go along with eight boards. While shooting the ball wasn’t an issue, holding onto it often was. Delaware State racked up 18 turnovers (22% of possessions).

Both teams face their next test on Jan. 21. UMES visits South Carolina State, while Delaware State squares off with North Carolina Central. The Hawks will look to keep their momentum rolling and earn another win. On the other side, the Hornets will take another shot at their first win.

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Courtesy of UMES Athletics

PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland – A stellar shooting night helped the University of Maryland Eastern Shore men’s basketball team secure its first Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference win of the season, knocking off Howard University 82-73 at Hytche Athletic Center on Monday evening.

The win over the Bison moves Maryland Eastern Shore to 6-0 at home and an even 8-8 overall this season. It is also the Hawks first win over Howard since January 4, 2020 and the team’s second victory over the Bison since the 2015-16 season.

Howard opened the contest with a 7-2 lead in the first minute, which the Hawks quickly narrowed to a two-point margin. A made three saw the Bison again lead by five, but UMES responded with an 11-0 run to lead 16-10.

Six points proved to be a critical margin in the game. It was the closest the visitors could get as Maryland Eastern Shore controlled the remainder of the period, with Maryland Eastern Shore taking its biggest lead of the half just before the break and heading to the locker room leading 38-23.

The Bison came out swinging in the second half, slimming the margin to six once again with 15:01 to go, but Maryland Eastern Shoredid not give an inch. The team delivered another blow to Howard via a 13-4 run to take a commanding 60-43 lead.

Both teams found themselves in foul trouble late in the contest, resulting in an abundance of free throws down the stretch. Howard made several pushes to get back in the game, but Maryland Eastern Shore again prevented the Bison from clawing within six and secured the victory.

“We scrapped the way we needed to and we protected home court,” head coach Jason Crafton said.

The Hawks shot 55 percent (33 of 60) from the field against Howard, their best shooting clip of the season. The team also tied its season-high with 20 assists in the conference matchup.

Defensively, the Hawks recorded their third consecutive game with double-digit steals, swiping 11 Bison passes. UMES now has 10+ pickpockets in six of their last seven contests.

Maryland Eastern Shore ranks seventh in the nation in steals per game, averaging 10.4 per contest. UMES also sits in the top 25 in the country in turnovers forced per game (16.87).

Zion Styles flourished in his first start since December 2, leading all Hawk scorers with 15 points while adding five boards, three assists and three steals. Kevon Voyles scored 14 and swiped two Howard possessions.

Da’Shawn Phillip and Ahamadou Fofana led the Hawks with four assists each. Phillip finished with 12 points, five rebounds and a steal, while Fofana scored 10 on 4-for-4 shooting with three boards.

Nathaniel Pollard Jr. led the Hawks on the glass, collecting eight loose balls. Pollard also scored eight and added three assists, two blocks and a steal.

Troy Hupstead posted double-digits off the Hawk bench, dropping 13 and cleaning the glass three times. Tuka Nugent also played a significant role for the Hawks on the night adding seven points, five rebounds and trios of assists and steals.

“We got great bench play from Tuka Nugent and Troy Hupstead,” Crafton said. “They provided a major spark.”

Maryland Eastern Shore gets a breather after its first MEAC weekend of the season. The group will look to secure their seventh consecutive home victory on Saturday, January 14 when they host the Delaware State Hornets at the Hytche.

Tip for the contest is scheduled for 4 p.m., but as usual the game will be played 30 minutes following the conclusion of the women’s contest at 2 p.m.

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In a day and time of change, with women taking more prominent roles in the world of college athletics, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) has become a national leader and trendsetter. When Sonja O. Stills was appointed the first female commissioner of the MEAC, it was unprecedented.
 
But that was only the beginning.
 
“The MEAC is clearly showing that female leaders are the norm and that given the opportunity, we will rise to the occasion,” Stills said. “What an amazing way to show the progress of Title IX during its 50th anniversary.”
 
The conference, made up of eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), currently has five women serving as athletic directors: Tara A. Owens (Maryland Eastern Shore); Alecia Shields-Gadson (Delaware State); Melody Webb (Norfolk State); Dena Freeman-Patton (Morgan State) and Keshia Campbell (South Carolina State).
 
“There is no excuse why an organization or institution cannot find a diverse pool of talented and experienced women of color who can lead in a male-dominated field,” Stills said. “I am extremely proud to be surrounded by such wonderful women who share in the vision of the conference.”
 
The “Fabulous Five” have had similar journeys, but they also differ in the circumstances prompting their decisions.
 
In September 2022, Owens became Maryland Eastern Shore’s Director of Athletics after four years in the same role at Central State University.
 
“I served as a coach for 18 years and I decided I wanted to do something different,” Owens said. “I wanted to do something to change the perspective of women and the roles that they play in a profession that is traditionally male-dominated. I wanted to be in a position where women were not just someone at the table but in a position of decision making in the hiring and policy-making and to show young women that we can.”
 
In August 2021, Shields-Gadson was appointed by Delaware State President Dr. Tony Allen as the university’s Director of Intercollegiate Athletics. Previously, she served in an interim capacity, and she has more than 30 years of experience in intercollegiate athletics as a senior-level administrator and head coach.
 
“It is certainly something to celebrate,” Shields-Gadson said. “Not just because we are women in this position, but because we are Black women. It is important visually that we represent so that young women coming after us can see that it is possible. Through all my experiences in athletics, I finally decided that it is important to have a voice at the table, and there is nothing more powerful or effective than an athletic director. I made my decision to pursue this as a career when I attended Institute at NACWA, and it helped me make this decision.”
 
Webb was appointed to the position of Athletics Director at Norfolk State on July 1, 2020, after serving for six years at the institution as Senior Associate Athletics Director for Administration and Senior Woman Administrator. She became the ninth athletics director in Spartans history and the first woman to hold the role.
 
“It signifies a real opportunity to change the course of how women are viewed in athletics,” Webb said. “The invisible biases and barriers with women in leadership still exist, but we are slowly shifting the landscape in college athletics. It’s great to be part of history and exciting to be amongst powerful women.”
 
On May 3, 2022, Morgan State President David K. Wilson announced the appointment of Dena Freeman-Patton as the new Vice President and Director for Intercollegiate Athletics. With her selection, Freeman-Patton became the first woman in Morgan State’s 155-year history hired to lead its athletic operations. She assumed her new role on June 1, 2022.
 
As an administrator and executive in intercollegiate athletics, Freeman-Patton brings nearly 25 years of experience.
 
South Carolina State Hall of Famer Keshia Campbell has been named Acting Director of Athletics at her alma mater, the university announced on Aug. 9, 2022. Campbell, the second female athletics director in S.C. State history, brings a wealth of experience in athletics administration to the university.
 
“It’s a beautiful thing to see,” Campbell said. “To sit at the table with my fellow colleagues of bright, intelligent women is something to behold. I was attending a leadership institute, and as I listened in, I made a vow that I wanted to be either an athletic director or a president. When you think of pioneers who set the groundwork, you can’t forget Brenda McCoy or Sondra Norrell Thomas. To think that she had to sit in with being the only female in the room and must navigate her way through that to gain respect is nothing short of remarkable.”
 

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UMES found themselves trailing 16-7 with 14:10 on the first half clock. What followed was a 26-9 Hawk run spanning nearly seven minutes of clock to give the good guys a 33-25 advantage with just under eight minutes left in the first.

Temple narrowed the gap and took the lead going into the intermission, 45-43, but the Hawks took the punch and swung back with a 24-13 stretch to open the second half. Over that run, UMES sunk nine of their 13 shots from the floor (69.2 percent) and made four threes.

The Owls rallied to make a game of it late, but had to resort to the foul game. The Hawks logged a pair of successful trips to the stripe to secure the win.

“We are extremely pleased with this incredible team win,” head coach Jason Crafton said. “That’s a really good Temple team that beat Villanova this year. So many guys contributed, it was a 1WAY effort to make this happen.”

The Hawks played their best three-point shooting game of the season, knocking down nearly 46 percent (11 of 24) of their shots from beyond the arc. UMES also set a new season-high for assists, logging 20 in the game.

The Hawks outrebounded Temple 40-29 on the evening, their third 40+ rebound game of the year. They also topped 10 steals for the seventh time this season, nabbing 10 Owl passes.

“To outrebound a team of their size by 11, that speaks to how scrappy we played defensively,” Crafton said.

Da‘Shawn Phillip scored a career-high 18 points, leading all scorers in the win and shooting 7-of-10 from the field. Nathaniel Pollard Jr. tallied his second double-double in as many games, posting 14 points and 10 boards while tying his career-mark in assists (five).

“I was especially proud of Nate Pollard,” Crafton said. “He really made strides tonight with his decision-making and entire play.”

Tuka Nugent showed out off the bench, scoring 13 points with two threes and bringing in four rebounds in 16 minutes on the floor. Jojo Anderson did the very same, tying his career-high with six dimes in 14 minutes (the most in a single game for any Hawk this season).

Kevon Voyles and Chace Davis each scored 11, with Davis burying a game-high three three-pointers.

Ahamadou Fofana did a little bit of everything for UMES tonight, scoring 8 points while collecting four steals, three rebounds and a pair of assists. Kohen Thompson logged a trio of assists, tying his career-best in a single game.

“That’s likely the biggest win in school history and our guys earned it on both ends of the floor,” Crafton said.

The Hawks will take the victory into Winter Break before returning to face Columbia University on the road on December 28. Tip for the contest is slated for 7 p.m.

The post Maryland Eastern Shore knocks off Temple appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Delaware State (19-14) won its last five conference games to overtake Coppin State (17-13) for the top seed this year. DelState won its only MEAC baseball crown in 1998. Coppin State won its lone title in 1995. Maryland-Eastern Shore (15-18), who has never taken home an MEAC baseball crown, is seeded third with Norfolk State (12-18) fourth.

The home standing Spartans won their only title a year ago. Among the four teams, they’ve won three titles in the 42 years of MEAC baseball.

Most dominant programs have left

The most dominant baseball program over that span, Bethune-Cookman, won 17 of those titles (1999-2004, 2006-12, 2014, 2016, 2017). Florida A&M (2015, 2019) won two. Both left the MEAC for the SWAC after last season.

NC A&T, who won two titles (2005, 2018), bolted to the Big South this year. Savannah State, who dropped back to Div. II in 2017, took its sole title in 2013.

Player to Watch

The top player in the MEAC is easily DelState sophomore infielder, Trey Paige. He was the MEAC preseason player of the year and leads the league in just about every statistical category.

The left-handed hitting Paige (6-0, 215) tops the league in batting average (.412), hits (63), runs scored (46), RBI (43), doubles (15), home runs (13) and total bases (121). Nationally, he is seventh among al NCAA Division I players in slugging percentage (.791, best in MEAC), eighth in hitting and ninth in on-base percentage.

MEAC Baseball Tournament Schedule

THURS., MAY 19

G1 – 1 Delaware State vs. 4 Norfolk State – 12 pm

G2 – 2 Coppin State vs. Maryland-Eastern Shore – 3:30 pm 

FRI., MAY 20

G3 – G1 winner vs. G2 winner – 12 pm

G4 – G1 loser vs. G2 loser – 3:30 pm

G5 – G4 winner vs. G3 loser – 7 pm 

SAT., MAY 21

G3 winner vs. G5 winner – 12 pm

2nd Game (if necessary)

The MEAC Digital Network is carrying the games.

The post MEAC baseball new look likely to produce new champion appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

HANOVER, MD – We are going to take the lacrosse world by storm with a new attitude, purpose, and mission. Next Level Sports will innovate and revolutionize collegiate lacrosse by founding an Olympic-
style lacrosse league featuring Mid-Atlantic colleges and universities, including HBCU Lacrosse via several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

The Next Collegiate League (NCL) will showcase student athlete talent playing a new Olympic
Style Lacrosse that is an evolved faster-paced, higher-scoring version of the sport. It is called
Olympic Style Lacrosse because the International Olympic Committee is contemplating adding
this innovative format to the 2028 Olympic games in Los Angeles.
The NCL will entertain traditional lacrosse enthusiasts while attracting new fans to the sport
through a more engaging game flow. The inaugural HBCU Lacrosse members for the Collegiate League include:

• Bowie State University
• University of Maryland Eastern Shore
• Lincoln University
•  Coppin State University
• Delaware State University
• Morgan State University

“The Collegiate League is our way to establish a global audience, innovate and elevate the
sport of lacrosse to make it more prominent and more accessible on college campuses and
throughout the country,” said André Gudger, Next Level Owner/CEO. “We envision providing a
platform for Olympic-style lacrosse that has global reach and it will give athletes an opportunity
to rapidly expand the sport and compete at the Olympic level.”
The Collegiate League season will begin in April with the inaugural Crown Classic Tournament.
Next Level Sports will produce and broadcast a 10-game season from early April to mid-May.
To learn more about the Next Collegiate League Olympic Style Lacrosse, visit
https://nlse.com/ncl-lacrosse.

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NORFOLK, Va. – Zamara Haynes scored a career-high 25 points as Maryland Eastern Shore used a 17-8 fourth quarter run to defeat Coppin State 73-65 in the quarterfinal round of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Basketball Tournament at the Scope Arena.

The fifth-seeded Hawks (11-15) advanced to the semifinal round on Friday, where they will face Howard University, the No. 1 seed, at 12 noon.

The two teams battled back and forth with the Eagles (15-12), the No. 4 seed, controlling the flow until the Hawks made a late run to get to within 36-32 at intermission.

From there, it became a back-and-forth affair with neither team holding a comfortable lead.

Zamara Haynes continued her scoring output and led her team with 17 points at the end of three quarters. But the Eagles found something in graduate Jaia Alexander, who single handedly kept her team in it with 26 points at the end of three quarters.

In the fourth quarter, the two teams continued to battle until the Hawks made their decisive run as Haynes and teammates Bairesha Gills-Miles and reserves Brooklyn Bailey and Mya Thomas, who contributed 33 points between them.

Coppin State began to miss shots and turn the ball over. Their problems were compounded when Alexander, the MEAC Player of the Year, appeared to tire, missing four of her last five shots.

The 33-point effort was two points off Alexander’s career-high of 35 that she set earlier this season.

Colleen Bucknor added 10 off the bench for Coppin State.

The post Zamara Haynes Leads UMES to Quarterfinal Win Over Coppin State appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Only the SWAC men and women on Monday (Jan. 10) were able to get in a full slate of games without a postponement or cancellation.

The MEAC has had the most cancellations or postponements with 17 of the last 19 men’s games not hitting the court. MEAC women’s programs have almost been hit as hard as 13 cancellations or postponements have occurred since just before the new year. 

That means it’s hard to get a bead on the top prospects or teams in the young season.  

HBCU Basketball – SWAC

Southern posted the best non-conference mark in the SWAC at 5-7. Sean Woods’ Jaguars (4-0 SWAC) have won their first four SWAC games to jump to the early lead in conference play. NC A&T transfer forward Tyrone Lyons (13.7 ppg.), 6-4 Murray State transfer Brion Whitley (12.5 ppg.)and 6-1 senior guard Jayden Saddler (11.6 ppg.) are leading the Jaguars. 

Southern plays at Grambling State Saturday (5:30 p.m.).

Alcorn State (4-12, 3-0) won just one of 13 non-conference games but head coach Landon Bussie has the Braves off to a 3-0 start in league action behind the play of Prairie View transfer Lenell Henry (13.0 ppg.). Alcorn has a key date with preseason favorite Texas Southern (5-8, 3-1) Saturday at 3 p.m.

The Braves then host Prairie View (1-11, 1-3) on Monday. 

HBCU Basketball – MEAC

On the Div. I level — men’s teams in the MEAC or SWAC — only the 10-4 MEAC defending champion Norfolk State Spartans under Robert Jones entered the new year and conference play with an above .500 record.

The Spartans have been led by 6-1 senior guard Joe Bryant’s 14.2 points per game. Six-nine redshirt senior forward Kris Bankston (11.2 ppg.) and 6-2 junior guard Christian Ings (10.5 ppg.) are other double-figure scorers. Bryant tallied a game-high 29 points as the Spartans knocked off Delaware State Wednesday, 80-51 for in their first conference tilt.

They hope to add to that record Saturday (4 p.m.) at  Howard (6-6), who had the second-best non-conference slate. It will be the first conference game for Howard and an early indicator of just how good the Bison are.

Head coach Kenny Blakeney’s squad has six players scoring in double-digits led by 6-10 sophomore forward Steve Settles’ 13.1 points per game and senior sharpshooter Kyle Foster’s 14.6 ppg. off the bench. Foster has made 42 of 82 3-pointers to lead the conference at .512 shooting from behind the arc. His 3.5 3s per game is also tops in the conference. 

Norfolk State plays at Maryland-Eastern Shore on Monday (4 p.m.).

MLK Special on FOX

After the Norfolk State game, the Bison are set to host Notre Dame Monday (Jan. 17) at 2:30 p.m. in a special game on FOX Sports honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the day of his national holiday. The coverage will include special messages from prominent figures sharing stories of Dr. King and what his legacy means to them. 

The matchup marks the first time in its history that Notre Dame will visit and play at an HBCU campus.

Brey / Blakeney connection

The coaches, Notre Dame head coach Mike Brey and Howard’s Blakeney, have a lot in common. Both began their hoop careers playing under late legendary head coach Morgan Wooten at local DeMatha High School, one of the top prep programs in the nation. Brey also became an assistant on the bench with Wooten before he launched his college coaching career.

Blakeney played under Mike Kryzyzewski collegiately at Duke. Both Brey and Blakeney also worked as assistants under Coach K. Blakeney was also on Brey’s staff at Delaware before he became head coach at Notre Dame.

Two of Howard’s best players – Settles and freshman point guard Elijah Hawkins (12.6 ppg., league-best 7.0 assists per game) are DeMatha products. 

Howard alumnus to call the game

The game was originally scheduled for MLK Day in 2021 but was cancelled as the teams battled COVID-19 issues.

Howard alum Gus Johnson, now a play-by-play announcer for FOX College Hoops, will call the game with NBA vet and College Hall of Famer Jim Jackson providing analysis.

Host Mike Hill and analysts Steve Lavin and Donny Marshall will provide pregame, halftime and postgame coverage on-site from Howard’s Burr Gymnasium. FOX COLLEGE HOOPS TIP-OFF begins at 2:00 p.m. on FOX.

HBCU Basketball – CIAA

A traditional MLK weekend game in the CIAA will pit Virginia Union and Virginia State Saturday in Ettrick, Va. (4 p.m.). Jay Butler’s  VUU squad (10-3) is undefeated in league play at 3-0. Lonnie Blow’s Trojans of VSU are 5-7 overall, 2-3 in the CIAA.

VUU has a date Monday at Saint Augustine’s and Wednesday at Bowie State. 

Fayetteville State (8-5, 3-0 S) and Lincoln (10-4, 4-0 N) are the early CIAA division leaders. FSU is at J. C. Smith Monday (4 p.m.) and at Livingstone Wednesday (7:30 p.m.). Lincoln is at BSU Saturday (4 p.m.) and hosts Elizabeth City State Wednesday (8:30 p.m.). 

HBCU Basketball – SIAC

Benedict (11-3, 7-0 N) and Miles (9-3, 4-1 S) are the leaders in the SIAC North and South respectively. Benedict is on the road at Morehouse Saturday (2 p.m.) and at Albany State Monday (7 p.m.). Miles hosts Central State Saturday (3 p.m.) and Kentucky State Monday (7:30 p.m.).  

HOOPS GAMES THIS WEEK

SAT., JAN. 15

CIAA

Fayetteville State @ JC Smith 4

Lincoln @ Bowie State 4

Virginia Union @ Virginia State 4

W-Salem State @ St. Augustine’s TBA
Elizabeth City State @ Shaw 5

Livingstone @ Claflin 7:30

MEAC

NC Central @ SC State 4

Norfolk State @ Howard 4

Coppin State @ Morgan State 4

SIAC

Allen @ Albany State TBA

Savannah State @ Ft. Valley State TBA

Benedict @ Morehouse 2

Central State @ Miles 3

LeMoyne-Owen @ Kentucky State 4

Spring Hill @ Lane 5

Clark Atlanta @ Edward Waters 6

SWAC

Texas Southern @ Alcorn State 3

Florida A&M @ Arkansas-Pine Bluff 5:30

Bethune-Cookman @ Miss. Valley St. 4

Alabama A&M @ Alabama State 4:30

Prairie View A&M @ Jackson State 5:30

Southern @ Grambling State 5:30

BIG SOUTH

Presbyterian @ Hampton 5:30

NC A&T @ High Point 7

OVC

Morehead State @ Tennessee State 4

OTHERS
Central Oklahoma @ Lincoln (MO)` 3

W. Va. State @ Alderson Broaddus 4

Langston @ Mid-America Christian 4 

MON., JAN. 17

CIAA

Virginia Union @ St. Augustine’s 4

MEAC

Notre Dame @ Howard 2:30

Norfolk State @ Md.-E. Shore 4

SIAC

Benedict @ Albany State 7

Allen @ Morehouse TBA

Central State @ LeMoyne Owen 7

Clark Atlanta @ Savannah State 7:30

Kentucky State @ Miles 7:30

Tuskegee @ Lane 8:30

SWAC

Prairie View A&M @ Alcorn State TBA

Texas Southern @ Jackson State 7:30

B-Cookman @ Arkansas-Pine Bluff 7:30

Florida A&M @ Miss. Valley State 7:30

OVC

Tennessee Tech @ Tennessee State 2

TUES., JAN. 18

Spring Hill @ Fort Valley State 8:30

WED., JAN. 19

CIAA

JC Smith @ St. Augustine’s 

Claflin @ Winston-Salem State 7:30

Shaw @ Virginia State 7:30

Fayetteville State @ Livingstone 7:30

Virginia Union @ Bowie State 7:30

Elizabeth City State @ Lincoln 8:30

SIAC

Albany State @ Allen 4

BIG SOUTH

Hampton @ Radford 6:30

NC A&T @ UNC-Asheville 6:30

OTHERS

W. Va.State @ Glenville State 7:30

The post HBCU Basketball Rundown: Jan. 15 – 19, 2022 appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Alvin “Shine” Wyatt was a standout defensive back and kick returner at Bethune-Cookman College, and the Raiders selected him in the sixth round of the 1970 NFL Draft. Wyatt only spent a year with the Raiders, but left a permanent impression on a coach who would go on to impact many lives at Bethune-Cookman and Edward Waters. 

“Coach John Madden was a great coach and an even better human being!” Wyatt told HBCU Gameday via text. “He was the best of all seven of my professional football coaches! In 1970 I was the only defensive corner drafted by the Oakland Raiders when he took me in the sixth round. Coach Madden was so softly and clearly spoken during my rookie camp and gave me so much attention because the veterans were on strike. Currently, I truly believe that strike was my best friend! So today, December 28th, 2021, I am saddened, in mourning, and full of disbelief to hear the news of the passing of a man that I respected immensely. Coach John Madden, my first NFL coach, was definitely one of many of God’s most precious gifts to me!”

HBCU standouts drafted by John Madden

Other HBCU standouts drafted by the Oakland Raiders under Madden’s watch include:

Eldridge Dickey was a generational talent at quarterback while at Tennessee State University. Madden’s Raiders drafted him in the first round of his first draft as an NFL head coach, making him the first black quarterback drafted in the modern era. However, Dickey would not play quarterback for the Raiders as he was switched to wide receiver while Ken Stabler, drafted in the second round, ended up becoming Oakland’s franchise quarterback.

Art Shell was a star offensive lineman in the CIAA with Maryland State (now Maryland-Eastern Shore) when the Raiders picked him in the third round. He would go on to a Hall of Fame career as an offensive tackle and later go on to become the first African-American head coach of the modern era when he took the reins of the franchise in 1989. 

Raymond Chester played in a successful program at Morgan State under head coach Earl Banks in the 1970s before Madden and the Raiders selected him in the first round of the 1970 NFL Draft. The tight end was promptly named the NFL’s Rookie of The Year that season, going to three straight Pro Bowls while playing for the Raiders. He would ultimately be traded in 1973 before going on to a stellar career. He’s currently in the Black College Football Hall of Fame and should be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. 

Henry Lawrence was so dominant at Florida A&M that Madden and the Raiders picked him in the first round of the 1974 NFL Draft. The two-time Pro Bowler would go on to win three Super Bowls in his extensive career.

Raymond Chester played in a successful program at Morgan State under head coach Earl Banks in the 1970s before Madden and the Raiders selected him in the first round of the 1970 NFL Draft. The tight end was promptly named the NFL’s Rookie of The Year that season, going to three straight Pro Bowls while playing for the Raiders. He would ultimately be traded in 1973 before going on to a stellar career. He’s currently in the Black College Football Hall of Fame and should be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

The Raiders drafted also drafted Charles Philyaw from Texas Southern and Gerald Irons of Maryland-Eastern Shore as well as others under John Madden. It should be noted that Grambling State’s Willie Brown started his career with the Houston Oilers and Denver Broncos before landing with the Raiders just before Maddden took over as head football coach.

John Madden was 85 years old at the time of his passing.

The post John Madden drafted HBCU stars, and they helped him succeed appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Nothing.

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised its ugly head again. How and whether the teams will get through this most recent spike is anyone’s guess. That’s all it would be.

MEAC basketball: A troubling sign

Over the past week, all seven scheduled games involving MEAC teams have either been postponed or canceled. Half of the teams in the league have either had games canceled or have suspended all activities. In some cases it involves both men’s and women’s teams. Following CDC and institution protocols, these teams and accompanying personnel are in quarantine. Activities will resume only when they are cleared.

Two of five games involving MEAC teams scheduled for this Wednesday, Jan. 29 will not be played (Coppin State at Indiana State  – canceled, Morgan State at Kansas State — postponed). Howard’s date at Hampton on Thursday (Dec. 30) has also been canceled.

MEAC basketball not the only sport being hit

The same realities are being faced by other college and professional teams and leagues. Brace yourself for what comes next. It could be a return to gyms without fans if or when play resumes at all.

While we wait, let’s at least see how the eight MEAC men’s teams have done so far. We’ll preview and review them based on their standings. Conference play is scheduled to begin in earnest in the second week of January (1/8/22).

Norfolk State (9-4)

Having a winning record (9-4) headed into the new year is a rarity in the MEAC. Robert Jones’s defending MEAC basketball champion Spartans have done it. Three wins have been over non-NCAA Div. I programs but the Spartans have also been an impressive 6-4 vs. Div. I competition, 3-1 against HBCU Div. I comp.

The Spartans’ leader has been 6-1 senior guard Joe Bryant Jr. The Norfolk, Va. native is perhaps the best returning player in the league. Bryant is averaging a team-leading 14.2 points per game while shooting a deadeye .944 (51 of 54) from the line. The aggressive 220-pounder gets to the line often.

Transfers Kris Bankston (6-9, F, Ark.-Little Rock) and Christian Ings (6-2, G, Rider) have stepped into key spots. Ings (10.5 ppg.) has joined Bryant to form a lethal combo guard tandem in the backcourt. Bankston (11.2 ppg., team-best 6.8 rebounds per game) leads the league in field goal percentage (.753). He has provided a presence in the frontcourt with ten blocks. Key contributors off the bench are 6-7 transfer (Siena) forward Dana Tate Jr., (9.7 ppg.) and last year’s postseason hero Jalen Hawkins (8.9 ppg.).

The Spartans lead the MEAC giving up just 63.5 points per game.

HOWARD (6-6)

Head coach Kenny Blakeney has deftly assembled a talented squad at Howard. Howard appears primed to challenge for league honors in just his second full-season on the job. It leads the league in scoring (79.6 ppg.). Howard is also the top shooting team from the field (.477), the line (.728) and behind the arc (.391).

Six-four, senior sharpshooting swingman Kyle Foster plays off the bench but leads the Bison in scoring (14.7 ppg.). He also tops the league in 3-point shooting (.512) and threes made (2.9 pg.) while canning over 50% of his shots from the field (.504). Four of the starters have also excelled. Six-ten redshirt sophomore Steve Settle is also a sniper, scoring 13.6 points per game on .549 shooting from the floor and .462 from behind the arc. Talented, versatile 5-11 freshman point guard Elijah Hawkins scores 12.6 points and leads the league handing out 6.7 assists per game.  

Tai Bibbs (10.6 ppg.) and Randy Brumant (9.1 ppg., team bests 6.2 rpg., .667 FG%) have been solid contributors on both ends.

SOUTH CAROLINA STATE (7-8)

First-year head coach Tony Madlock is authoring a turnaround at South Carolina State. After losing five straight games to open the season and seven of their first eight, the Bulldogs have stormed back to win six of their last seven. He has assembled a deep and talented team.

Freshman off-guard TJ Madlock, the coach’s son, and soph Cameron Jones have been at the center of the turnaround. The 6-3 Madlock (11.3 ppg., 3.4 apg.) and the 6-6 Jones (11.7 ppg., 2.6 apg.) are the primary scorers and playmakers. Six-nine freshman Jemal Davis (7.7 ppg., 4.7 rpg.) and 6-8 graduates Dequan Williams (7.6 ppg., 6.0 rpg.) and Edward Oliver-Hampton 8.1 ppg., 6.3 rpg.) provide toughness and length down low.

Sub 6-foot guards Rahsaan Edwards (6.1 ppg.) and Rakeim Gary (8.1 ppg.) and 6-6 soph Omar Crosskey (7.3 ppg.), all sophomores, are key parts of a rotation that goes ten-deep and includes Latavian Lawrence and Rashamel Bulter.

MARYLAND-EASTERN SHORE (5-6)

The Hawks of Maryland-Eastern Shore have been another surprising team under second-year head coach Jason Crafton. They have big wins over Fordham (75-73, 2 OT) and Lehigh (81-75). What the Hawks lack in size they make up in hustle and tenacity.

Six-three senior Zion Styles (11.5 ppg.) and 6-1 sophomore Dom London (11.0 ppg.) join 2020-21 all freshman selection (6-5) De’Shawn Phillips (9.3 ppg.) as the scoring leaders. Six-five senior Nathaniel Pollard Jr. is the most versatile, scoring 8.4 points per game while leading Hawk rebounders (6.7 rpg.) and shooting .556 from the field. Six-three junior Kevon Voyles (7.4 ppg.) is the other starter. Six-three freshman guard Chase Davis (7.5 ppg.) is the first player off the bench.

NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL (6-9)

Head coach LeVelle Moton has the tough task of blending a new array of players into a cohesive, winning unit. One familiar face is Randy Miller Jr., who left for Indiana State and returns to NCCU where he was an all-MEAC guard and double-figure scorer in the 2018-19 and 2019-20 seasons. He’s back and leading the Eagles at 12.5 ppg.

Six-eight senior Kris Monroe (9.7 ppg.) transferred in from Providence, 6-7 forward Dontavius King (9.5 ppg., 5.1 rpg.) toiled for College of Charleston, Marquee Maultsby was a key contributor at New Hampshire (6.1 ppg.). Eric Boone started 21 games for Georgia Southern (11 ppg.) and is getting 7.8 points per game for the Eagles early in the season.

Give them time, the Eagles will be ready to contend once conference play begins.

MORGAN STATE (4-7)

After a run to the MEAC finals in March, the Bears under Kevin Broadus have struggled to regain that footing. De’Torrian Ware, who averaged 26.6 points per game in three games during the tournament run, is off to a slow start averaging just 8.4 points per game. Heralded grad transfer Seventh Woods (7.6 ppg.), who had stints at UNC and South Carolina, has shown some flashes of his talent but has played in just five games.   

Six-four senior Malik Miller (10.8 ppg., team-leading 8.3 rpg.), a 2020-21 starter, and 6-3 New Mexico transfer Keith McGee (11.1 ppg.) have been the most consistent players. Six-eight senior Lagio Grantsaan (9.1 ppg., 4.3 rpg.) and Isaiah Burke (8.4 ppg.), two other starters from a season ago, are contributing as is starting point guard Sherwyn Devonish (6.6 ppg., 3.8 apg.).

DELAWARE STATE (2-11)

It has been tough sledding for new Hornets’ coach Stan Waterman who is leading DSU after a storied career in the high school ranks in the state.

Six-three graduate Myles Carter (14.7 ppg., 3^rd) and 6-foot senior guard Dominik Fragala (13.9 ppg., 5th) are among the league’s scoring leaders. Six-seven senior forward Fahim Jenneto is contributing 9.5 ppg. Six-eight sophomore Christoper Smith scores just 3.8 points per game but tops the league in blocks (22, 2.2 bpg.) while pulling down 6.4 rebounds per game.

Shooting and scoring (61.7 ppg., 8th) are the Hornets greatest challenges. They are seventh of the eight conference teams in field goal (.390) and 3-point percentage (.282).

COPPIN STATE (1-14)

Juan Dixon’s Eagles were a contender in the 2020-21 season but have also struggled. Despite their record, Dixon says he’s not worried and the team is on track to challenge again. We’ll see as conference play begins.

The record doesn’t indicate that Coppin has been in many of the games it has lost. CSU has four single-digit losses and another eight by less than 20 points. They have played 13 of their 15 games on the road.

Six-three redshirt sophomore Jesse Zarzuela is leading the league in scoring at 15.7 points per game and has handed out 43 assists (3.3 apg.). Athletic 6-7 forward Tyree Corbett is contributing 13.6 points and a team-high 7.9 rebounds per game. Hard-nosed 6-4 sophomore guard Nendah Tarke is the third double-digit scorer at 11.5 points who pulls down 6.1 boards per game and leads the league in steals (2.9 spg.).

Kyle Cardaci (4.9 ppg.) and Daniel Titus (3.3 ppg.) are solid complimentary players.

The post MEAC basketball: Sizing up the teams and the players appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

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Maryland Eastern Shore is the second MEAC school to completely opt out of the Spring joining Bethune-Cookman University. Hawk Athletics had previously announced the cancellation of all athletic competition until at least Jan. 1. Florida A&M University also announced recently the cancellation of six of their sports, including football and women’s volleyball.
 
“With the long-term effects of the virus still largely unknown, the current health and safety of our student athletes and staff as well as their future well-being must always be our top priority when making this decision,” Director of Athletics Keith Davidson said. “The university moves forward with the mindset that we will use this time to better position and strengthen our programs to be able to better complete the 2021-22 athletic year.”
 
Safety has been at the forefront for the athletic department during the Fall. While the athletes were cleared physically and acclimated for a safe return to practice, measures were put into place utilizing NCAA safety recommendations and Center for Disease Control guidelines, but athletic competition at its core is not socially distant.
 
“While our athletic training staff has worked tirelessly to make sure that our teams were properly acclimated to a return to practice and our coaches and student athletes have worked to follow strict safety guidelines, the same factors that drove us to push back competition to the beginning of January still exist today.” Davidson said. “The situation is worse than it was when we shuttered things eight months ago during the MEAC Tournament.”
 
When student athletes return to campus for the Spring semester, they will return to practice and team activity if current state and local guidelines permit.

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PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland – The University of Maryland Eastern Shore will suspend the women’s tennis program beginning with the 2020-21 academic year. Eastern Shore will still field the required 14 Division I sports to meet sports sponsorship.

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“We will take the next three years to perform an assessment of the program’s needs,” Hawk Athletic Director Keith Davidson said. “During this suspension, a number of areas will be reviewed and evaluated. Current practice and match facilities, scholarships, equipment, coaching staff and other expenses that continue to impact our ability to offer a quality program for our young women will all be looked at.”
 
In addition, the university will initiate a fundraising campaign that will be dedicated to supporting the tennis program and returning our ladies to the court as well as reinstating the men’s program, which was suspended beginning with the 2017-18 academic year.

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The no. 8 seed UMES took down the defending tournament champions behind 21 points from Adrienne Jones. Neither team shot the ball very well with the Lady Hawks shooting 29 percent in the first half compared to BCU’s 24 percent.

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UMES shot 44 percent in the second half while BCU struggled to just 27 percent shooting over the last two quarters.

Maryland Eastern Shore led the game from wire to wire to BCU did make it close late in the game. Bethune Cookman trailed 46-49 after a Camary Harris three-pointer at the 2:55 mark of the fourth quarter. Over the next 2:25 UMES went on an 8-1 run to make it a 57-47 game with 30 seconds remaining.

Maryland Eastern Shore advances to the semifinals on Friday. They will face the winner of Thursday’s North Carolina A&T versus North Carolina Central matchup.

Ashanti Hunt led Bethune-Cookman with 19 points and 12 rebounds in the loss. Bethune-Cookman won’t make the NCAA Tournament field this year but will earn the women’s NIT automatic berth as regular-season champions.

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NORFOLK, Va., March 10, 2020–Mya Thomas scored a game-high 21 points and Brooklyn Bailey tallied nine of her 11 points in the fourth quarter as Maryland Eastern Shore pulled away to 62-50 victory over Coppin State in the opening round of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Basketball Tournament at the Scope Arena on Tuesday.

The Hawks (9-21), the No. 8 seed, advanced to the quarterfinal against top seed Bethune Cookman on Wednesday at 12 p.m.

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The game was a close contest between the two teams until the Eagles (3-26), the No. 9 seed, opened the game’s biggest lead at the 5:48 mark of the second quarter. The charge was led by Jalynda Salley’s 15 points on 6-for-10 shooting from the floor.

But the Hawks closed out with a strong run to trail 32-26 at intermission.

UMES began the third period with aa mini 10-7 spurt to take 38-35 lead at the 6:26 mark. But the Eagles countered and there were four lead changes and two ties until the Hawks took control to take a 49-44 lead on some 3-point shooting.

The momentum carried over into the fourth period, as the Hawks went on a 21-12 run, featuring three of their four baskets from beyond the arc to open a 54-44 lead at the 7:54 mark.

Coppin State was able to reduce the deficit to 54-50 on a Chance Graham free throw. But the Eagles failed to score the rest of the way, turning the ball over on five of its six possessions at one point and failing to convert on some close-in shots.

UMES closed it out with five different players contributing to the last eight points.

Bailey contributed 11 points to the win while Amanda Carney scored 10 off the bench.

Coppin State was led by Salley with 17 points, while First Team All-MEAC selection Chance Graham finished with a double-double of 12 points and 12 rebounds.

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NORFOLK, Va., March 6, 2020–The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) has announced its women’s pairings for the 2020 MEAC Basketball Tournament, March 10-14 at the Scope Arena in Norfolk, Va. Bethune-Cookman will be the top seed after concluding the regular season with a 15-1 mark in MEAC play.

Norfolk State went 12-4 in conference play this season and will be the No. 2 seed after winning a tiebreaker over Morgan State (the two teams split the regular-season head-to-head, but the Spartans went 1-1 against league-leading B-CU to Morgan State’s 0-1 mark).

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Both the Wildcats and the Spartans have earned first-round byes and will not play until the quarterfinal round on Wednesday. In all, the top six teams in the regular-season standings earned first-round byes.

Bethune-Cookman, the defending tournament champion, will play the 12 p.m. quarterfinal that day against the winner of Tuesday’s first-round contest between No. 8 Maryland Eastern Shore and No. 9 Coppin State.

Norfolk State will play in the 2 p.m. quarterfinal on Wednesday, taking on the winner of Tuesday’s first-round game between No. 7 Howard and No. 10 South Carolina State.

Morgan State earned the No. 3 seed, and the Lady Bears will play the 2 p.m. quarterfinal on Thursday against No. 6 seed Delaware State. North Carolina A&T State, as the No. 4 seed, also claimed a first-round bye; the Aggies’ Thursday quarterfinal will be against No. 5 seed North Carolina Central at 12 p.m.

The 2019-20 regular-season champions, first team honorees and award winners including Player, Rookie, Defensive Player and Coach of the Year, will be recognized in pre-game presentations prior to the honorees’ first games in tournament play.

The 2020 MEAC Basketball Tournament tips off Tuesday, March 10, and will conclude on Saturday, March 14 with the men’s and women’s championship games. The women’s game will begin one hour after the end of the men’s game and will be rebroadcast on ESPNU. It will air the following day, Sunday, March 15, at 10 a.m.

The men’s finale will begin at 1 p.m. and will broadcast live on ESPN2.

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Here’s your MEAC Tournament Projections before the last week of MEAC play begins. 

Seedings

1. North Carolina A&T, 11-3 in MEAC Play
2. NC Central, 10-3 in MEAC Play
3. Norfolk State, 9-4 in MEAC Play
4. Bethune-Cookman, 9-5 in MEAC Play
5. Morgan State, 9-5 in MEAC Play
6. SC State, 6-8 in MEAC Play
7. Coppin State, 5-9 in MEAC Play
8. MD Eastern Shore, 4-9 in MEAC Play
9. Delaware State, 2-11 in MEAC Play
10. Howard, 0-13 in MEAC Play

Florida A&M is ineligible

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Bracket Breakdown

First Round | Tuesday, March 10

Game 3: MD Eastern Shore vs. Delaware State, 6 p.m.

Game 4: Coppin State vs. Howard, 8 p.m.* 

Quarterfinals | Wednesday, March 11 

Game 7: North Carolina A&T vs. Winner of UMES vs DSU, 6 p.m. 

Game 8: NC Central vs. Winner of CSU vs HU, 8 p.m.* 

Quarterfinals | Thursday, March 12

Game 11: Bethune-Cookman vs. Morgan State, 6 p.m. 

Game 12: Norfolk State vs. SC State, 8 p.m.* 

Semifinals | Friday, March 13

Game 15: NCAT, UMES, or DSU vs. Winner of BCU vs MSU, 6 p.m. 

Game 16: NCCU, CSU, or HU vs. Winner of NSU vs SCSU, 8 p.m.* 

Championship | Saturday, March 14

Game 17: NCAT, UMES, DSU, BCU, or MSU vs. NCCU, CSU, HU, NSU, or SCSU, 1 p.m.

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The Road To The Title Game, Who Teams Will Have to Go Through

Bracket Side One: North Carolina A&T Side

North Carolina A&T, Maryland Eastern Shore, Delaware State, Bethune-Cookman, Morgan State

Bracket Side Two: NC Central Side

NC Central, Coppin State, Howard, Norfolk State, SC State

We have a potential MEAC title rematch from last year in the semifinals. NC Central and Norfolk State can meet during the primetime slot on Thursday Night. We can also have an Aggie-Eagle title game, which is always a tense matchup. The upper tier of the schedule will most likely open up with the Northern MEAC schools starting things off. And with those teams having some close games and even bad blood; it adds some early entertainment in the tourney. Bethune-Cookman and Morgan State can win one game and land easily on the Friday slot. That will be the latest that Morgan State has played in the tourney in recent seasons. 

Everything Is Not Set…Yet

But unlike the women’s bracket, there’s still much more movement that can occur within the seeding. This Saturday, NC Central faces SC State on the road. A loss there can help Norfolk State move up as they have a last-place Howard team coming into Norfolk. This Monday, NCCU and BCU clash as NCAT and SC State will be facing off as well. And on the last night of the regular season, we have NCCU and NCAT, NSU vs MSU, and FAMU vs BCU. Mathematically, a few top projected seeds you see now will have to lose within the next week before the MEAC Tournament begins. 

Take this projection with a grain of salt because the end of the season will be madness, MEAC madness. 

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The post MEAC Men’s Tournament Projections appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

Here’s your MEAC Tournament Projections before the last week of MEAC play begins. 

Seedings

1. Bethune-Cookman, 13-1 in MEAC play, clinched share of MEAC Regular Season Title
2. Norfolk State, 10-3 in MEAC play
3. North Carolina A&T, 10-4 in MEAC play
4. Morgan State, 10-4 in MEAC play
5. Delaware State, 8-5 in MEAC play
6. N.C. Central, 7-6 in MEAC play
7. Howard, 6-7 in MEAC play
8. Coppin State, 3-11 in MEAC play
9. Maryland E. Shore, 2-11 in MEAC play
10. South Carolina State 2-12 in MEAC play

Florida A&M is not eligible for the MEAC tournament due to NCAA Violations 

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Bracket Breakdown

First Round | Tuesday, March 10 

Game 1: Coppin State vs. Maryland Eastern-Shore, 12 p.m. 

Game 2: Howard vs. SC State, 2 p.m.* 

Quarterfinals | Wednesday, March 11 

Game 5: Bethune-Cookman vs. Winner of CSU vs UMES, 12 p.m. 

Game 6: Norfolk State vs. HU or SC State 2, 2 p.m.

Quarterfinals | Thursday, March 12 

Game 9: Morgan State vs. Delaware State, 12 p.m. 

Game 10: NC A&T vs. NC Central, 2 p.m.* 

Semifinals | Friday, March 13 

Game 13: BCU, CSU or UMES vs. Winner of MSU vs DSU, 12 p.m. 

Game 14: NSU, HU, or SC State vs. Winner of NCAT vs NCCU, 2 p.m.*

Championship | Saturday, March 14 

Game 18: BCU, CSU, UMES, MSU, or DSU vs. NSU, HU, SC State, NCAT, or NCCU

The Road To The Title Game, Who Teams Will Have to Go Through

Bracket Side One: Bethune-Cookman Side

Bethune-Cookman (top seed), Coppin State, Maryland-Eastern Shore, Morgan State, Delaware State

Bracket Side Two: Norfolk State Side

Norfolk State (second seed), Howard, SC State, NC A&T, NC Central

The Women’s tournament develops into an interesting bracket. Keep up with the tournament on FloHoops. The Women’s title game will be live on ESPNU.

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NORFOLK, Va. — Tyrese Jenkins went for a career-high 19 points in leading the Norfolk State men’s basketball team to a 62-52 win over Maryland Eastern Shore in a MEAC contest on Saturday evening at Joseph Echols Hall.
 
The Spartans took sole possession of first place in the MEAC as the only undefeated team left in the league at 4-0. The freshman Jenkins played a big part in that, more than tripling his previous career-high of six points. He was one of just two players for NSU in double figures.
 
In the end, Norfolk State won despite shooting just 29 percent from the floor in the second half. A 16-of-20 effort from the free-throw line — 20-of-26 for the game — made the difference.

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The Spartans won their fourth in a row, running their overall record to 8-11. In addition to Jenkins, senior Jermaine Bishop scored 17 points on 5-of-12 shooting, 4-of-8 from deep.

 
The Hawks fell to 2-17 overall, 1-3 in the league.
 
The Spartans finally took the lead for good late in the first half. They led by as much as 15 in the second half, but the Hawks did not go away.
 
Up by six at the half, the Spartans scored nine of the first 11 points coming out of the locker room. Four free throws from junior Devante Carter later made it 42-27 five and a half minutes in. The Hawks, however, scored the next eight points to cut the deficit to seven.
 
NSU went nearly eight minutes without a field goal, and MDES got as close as six with less than six minutes to go. Jenkins’ 3-pointer with 2:56 in the game basically sealed the deal for NSU, which led by 11 at that point and by as much as nine the rest of the way.
 
Jenkins finished 5-of-8 from the floor, 3-of-4 from deep. He made all six of his free-throw attempts as well. He came into the night with just three 3-pointers on the season.
 
The Hawks shot 40 percent for the evening, 46 percent in the second half. NSU made just 35 percent overall but had eight 3-pointers as a team compared to just two for Maryland Eastern Shore.
 
After a slow start to the game, the Spartans scored seven in a row, taking a 10-6 lead seven and a half minutes into the contest. The Hawks fought back, taking a four-point lead with six minutes to go in the half.
 
Jenkins, however, knocked down a pair from deep to kick start the Spartans to end the half. They scored 10 in a row to eventually go into the break ahead 29-23.
 
AJ Cheeseman totaled 15 points to lead the Hawks. They outscored NSU 34-10 in points in the paint and 10-0 in fastbreak points. The Spartans held a 19-7 edge in second-chance points thanks to 14 offensive boards.
 
They finished with 14 more attempts from the free-throw line than Maryland Eastern Shore, which was 10-of-12.
 
NSU will host South Carolina State next Saturday at 6:30 p.m.”

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Last Week’s Notes

North Carolina Central’s Jibri Blount and Florida A&M’s Rod Melton Jr. were named MEAC Co-Players of the Week. North Carolina A&T’s Ronald Jackson was named MEAC Defensive Player of the Week. Bethune-Cookman’s Joe French was named MEAC Rookie of the Week for the third time this season.

Morgan State and Norfolk State are tied for first place after two games, with NCAT and NCCU perfect in conference play as well. The Bears picked up wins against Delaware State and SC State. The Spartans made a statement against Bethune-Cookman and quieted Coppin State.

Coppin State at Bethune-Cookman

The Wildcats had a rough start last weekend after being dominated by Norfolk State on the road. They responded with 102-73 a win agaisnt Howard in DC.

Coppin State did not capture a win during the first weekend of conference play. Just like the BCU, NSU dominated CSU. After four impressive non-conference wins, CSU hasn not won a game since December 3rd.

The Wildcats are facing a team that’s hungry for a win. Cletrell Pope was clearly hungry as he scored 28 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in his last contest. That’s the key for the Wildcats, especially through their bench play. With Isiah Bailey, Joe French, and Malik Maitland; the Wildcats can be one of the deepest teams in the conference. But it all starts with Mr.Pope.

N.C. Central at Delaware State

NCCU is the king of the MEAC and it was shown last weekend. It held Florida A&M scoreless for a long stretch of the 2nd half; leading to a 61-45 win.

On the flip end, Coach Eric Skeeters is only in his second year in the conference. His Hornets kept up with Morgan State but lost momentum in the second half.

That’s the key to the game. The Eagles ended their last contest on a 16-0 run. But the Hornets were outscored 46-33 in the second half against the Bears. The Hornets will have to finish strong to pull off the upset. John Crosby will be up to the task, he’s the MEAC’s leading scorer with 22 points per game.

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Morgan State at Florida A&M

FAMU has seen mixed results as of late. It defeated Iowa State on New Year’s Eve in an upset for the ages. But their next two contests were losses. A meltdown against NCCU and one on the losing side of an overtime thriller against NC A&T. Rod Melton has been a bright spot for the Rattlers, scoring in double figures during those games.

Morgan State has the same score of players from last year but with some new additions. Florida Gulf Coast transfer, Troy Baxter scored 16 points in the Bears’ win against SC State. The Tallahassee native will be looking to make another statement in front of his hometown guests.

That goes to the bigger picture for the Bears, first-year head coach Kevin Broadus wants to make a statement. His team plays an aggressive full-court defense that slows opponents down as the game goes on. And unlike recent Bears teams, his team is best during the 2nd half of games.

N.C. A&T State at UMES

Maryland-Eastern Shore is coming off its first D1 win of the season. This proves that no road game is to be taken lightly within conference play. The Hawks have the Aggies and Eagles, the NC MEAC duo coming through their house for their next two games.

For the unexpected to happen again, AJ Cheeseman must repeat his performance that he delivered in his last contest. He put up 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the process. Overall, it will be a team effort. It was shown as the Hawks gained 42 points from the bench.

The Aggies let the Rattlers score 52 second-half points, this forced overtime and a win for the Aggies. Their last win was earned but if the Aggies want to get a nice win on the road, it comes down to three-point shooting. The Aggies shot only 25% from the three-point line in their last game. On the good side of things, they had four players in double figures. Most notably, Tyler Maye who is coming off a 24 point performance.

Norfolk St. at Howard

Although having mostly a new team, the Spartans are 2-0 in MEAC play. Great coaching and a hard nonconference schedule have prepared them for this moment. Joe Bryant Jr and Jermaine Bishop are both averaging 13ppg and the duo is moving waves for the Spartans. He scored 17 and 21 points in his last two contests. Bryant has been in double figures in 15 contests this season.

Meanwhile, for Howard, they have not won a home game against a D1 opponent since January 28th of last season. Kenneth Blakeney has a hard task on his hand. But it’s conference play so you’ll never know many points CJ Williams can score or how crazy Burr gym could get. Don’t count out the Bison.

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It is the first professional basketball stint for the 2019 graduate.

“I’m excited for her and her family,” Hawks coach Fred Batchelor said. “Her family has made a huge sacrifice and commitment to her basketball career and it’s nice to see all of them being rewarded with this opportunity. It is going to be tough for them because her family is very close and that’s a long way away from home. I’ll be praying for her mother as much as I’ll be praying for Keke and we’ll be trying to support them as much as we can, but it’s great for all her hard work that she is able to have this experience.”

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Eaton finished her career in Maroon and Gray with as No. 9 all-time in career 3-point field goals made (108) and No. 10 in 3-point field goals attempted (371). She also finished tied with teammate Ciani Byrom at No. 6 all-time with 55 3-pointers made in a single season.

She picked up first career double-double in overtime victory at UMBC (Dec. 31, 2018) with 15 points and 10 rebounds in 38 minutes to go with five steals and a 12-for-13 performance from the free-throw line. She reached double digits in 13 games as a senior and had a career-high 28 points in a win at Mount St. Mary’s (Dec. 20, 2018).

Eaton finished the year with a career-high 46 steals and made the MEAC Commissioners’ All-Academic Team.

She is the only American player on the Jedinstvo roster. The team is 2-7 so far this season and in ninth place in the league, according to eurobasket.com.

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PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland – In their first action of 2020, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore men’s basketball team grabbed a 78-66 conference win on Saturday night (Jan. 4) over the Howard University Bison inside the William P. Hytche Athletic Center.

Saturday’s victory was the first win for head coach Jason Crafton over a Division I opponent. The Hawks first win of the season was against Division III Clarks Summit.

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“This game was a testament to the guys sticking together after a tough stretch to start the season,” Crafton said. “They found a way to put 40 minutes together of playing with toughness and executing our game plan.”

Howard jumped out to a 15-4 lead seven minutes into the first half. The Hawks responded with an 11-0 over the next three minutes that was capped by a pair of free throws from redshirt sophomore Walter Prevost (Houston, Texas) to tie the game.

The Bison held a 21-15 lead with 6:55 remaining in the half. Eastern Shore came back with a 16-0 run to take a 31-21 advantage. The Shore would use that run to help them go into halftime up 36-28.

HU opened the second half with new energy as they outscored the Hawks 15-4 in the first six minutes of the frame. The lead would change hands a few times over the next few minutes until senior AJ Cheeseman (Snellville, Georgia) hit a pair of free throws at the 12:14 mark to give the team a 49-48 lead that they would not surrender for the remainder of the game.

“AJ is a veteran guy that has experienced MEAC play before and regardless of his ups and down this season, I believe in him,” Crafton said. “He did a good job of fighting tonight and he had a big night for us.”

Junior Ty Gibson (Brooklyn, New York) also was in double figures for the Hawks as he had 14 points. The Hawks had a season high 17 assists as a team as redshirt senior Ahmad Frost (Cincinnati, Ohio) led the team with four dimes and no turnovers.

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“NORFOLK, Va., Sept. 3, 2019–Morgan State sophomore Zoe McBride was named Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Volleyball Player of the Week, the conference office announced today. Delaware State’s Anadys Valentin was named Rookie of the Week, while Coppin State freshman Ashley Roman earned Defensive Specialist of the Week honors and Morgan State senior Roi Wallace was named Setter of the Week.

McBride (6-0, So., OH/RS, Ridgefield, Wash.) led the Lady Bears to a 2-1 weekend to open the season — which included five-set wins over Seton Hall and William & Mary. She hit .268 for the weekend, recorded two double-doubles in three matches, and averaged 4.62 kills and 2.4 digs per set. Against Seton Hall, she had 30 kills, 13 digs and three blocked shots, hitting .383, and she followed that up with an 18-kill, 10-dig performance against William & Mary.

Valentin (5-11, Fr., OH, Vega Baja, Puerto Rico) hit .284 in four matches in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge this past weekend, averaging 3.8 kills and 2.9 digs per set. She recorded double-doubles in three of her four matches, including a 20-kill, 14-dig performance against Jackson State. She hit .349 in that match, and she hit a weekend-best .462 against Alabama A&M, a match in which she had 14 kills. She also had 15 kills and 14 digs against Texas Southern.

Roman (5-5, Fr., L, Isabela, Puerto Rico) averaged over five digs per set (5.21, to be exact) as the Eagles opened the season with a 2-2 weekend, notching wins over Binghamton and Siena. She recorded double-digit digs in all four matches, including a high of 30 on Sunday against Siena. Named All-Tournament at the Delaware Classic, Roman recorded 18 digs against Binghamton and another 15 against Delaware.

Wallace (5-9, Sr., S, San Dimas, Calif.) averaged 9.85 assists per set as Morgan State won its season opener for the first time since 2011, going 2-1 on the weekend. She opened with 58 assists — two shy of her career high — against Seton Hall, before recording her first double-double of the season with 49 assists and 14 digs against William & Mary. She also averaged 2.00 digs per set for the weekend.

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Other Top Performers

Alleah Dallas (B-CU) had four kills each against Houston Baptist and Texas Rio Grande Valley.

Jordan Jefferson (B-CU) recorded nine kills against Radford and 15 digs against Texas Rio Grande Valley.

Miajavon Coleman (CSU) had 23 kills and 12 digs in Sunday’s win over Siena.

Brianna Lang (CSU) had 48 assists and 11 digs against Siena.

Jelena Dukic (DSU) averaged 8.8 assists per set in four matches, including 46 assists against Jackson State.

Kayla Diaz (HOW) had 18 assists and 14 digs against George Washington and was named All-Tournament in the D.C. Challenge.

Fola Wilson (HOW) was named All-Tournament in the D.C. Challenge, recording 15 digs against American and 14 against Hartford.

Jennevy Santos (MSU) had 22 digs against William & Mary.

Edie Brewer (NCAT) recorded 16 assists, eight kills, seven digs and three blocks against Davidson.

Andrea Laboy-Rivera (NCAT) had 17 digs against West Virginia and 10 against both Morehead State and Davidson.

Addy Warfield (NCAT) had 16 assists and seven digs against Davidson.

Myleah Carter (NSU) had seven kills each in two matches against Hampton.

Anna Rupertova (NSU) notched 11 total kills in two matches against Hampton.

Ivana Blazevic (UMES) had 45 assists in a win over NJIT and averaged 8.5 assists per set in four matches.”

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The list will be updated as games are confirmed.

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CIAA

• November 1st: Winston Salem State vs UNC (Exhibition)

MEAC

SWAC

Hampton

No games confirmed.

Tennessee State

• December 29th: Tennessee State vs Ole Miss

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Maryland-Eastern Shore has hired former NBA G-League Assistant Jason Crafton as its next head coach, according to Stadium.

Crafton spent last season with the Delaware Blue Coats in the NBA’s developmental league. He came to the G-League after coaching at his alma mater, Nyack College, from 2012 through 2016. He also worked as an assistant at Navy and before that, at Villanova.

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He will take over a Maryland-Eastern Shore squad that went 6-25 overall last season and 2-14 in MEAC play under interim head coach Cliff Reed. Reed spent the season in charge after former head coach Bobby Collins was let go following the 2017-18 season.

Howard and Morgan State remain the two lone MEAC coaching vacancies.

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Courtesy: MEAC Sports

MILLSBORO, Del. — Maryland Eastern Shore defeated Bowie State 2-0 on Saturday in the opening round of the 2019 NCAA Women’s Bowling National Championship at Millsboro Lanes, sweeping the first two legs of the Mega Match format.

The Hawks advance to the national tournament on Thursday through Saturday, April 11-13, in Wickcliffe, Ohio. They will face No. 2 seed McKendree on Thursday. The match will be streamed live on NCAA.com.

Maryland Eastern Shore opened by taking the traditional team game 865-750.

Bowie State, the champion out of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), were game in the second round, which was Baker team pinfall format. The Bulldogs won the first, fourth and fifth games, but the Hawks — behind a strong third game — held a higher pinfall and clinched the win.

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Burr Gymnasium in Washington, DC hosted very important games. In the first game, the Howard women defeated Bethune-Cookman by a score of 60-41. It marks their first win against the team since 2013. BCU have been rather dominant in the conference over the past few seasons so this win is a major boost for HU.

The BCU men got back on track by beating the HU, 71-63. The Bison’s nine bench points compared to the Wildcats 26 points from the bench proved to be the difference. RJ Cole scored 20 points but he couldn’t get enough help from Charles Williams. Mark Gordon scored a game-high 22 points for BCU as Cletrell Pope scored another double-double in the process.

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Both Bethune-Cookman squads will face Norfolk State next. Both Spartan teams are currently 3-0 and in first place in the MEAC.

Women’s Scores & Top Performers

Norfolk State: 68
Coppin State: 63

NC Central: 49
MD Eastern Shore: 59

SC State: 51
Morgan State: 62

Bethune-Cookman: 60
Howard: 41

NC A&T: 67
Delaware State: 47

Savannah State: 54
Florida A&M: 50

Ra’Jean Martin (UMES): 16 points & four rebounds
McCray (NCAT): 23 points & two steals
Alexys Long (NSU): 19 points & five assists
Kendrea Dawkins (NSU): 18 points & seven rebounds
Adre’onia Coleman (MSU): 17 points & eight rebounds
Taylor Brown (SCSU): 20 points and 10 rebounds

Men’s Scores & Top Performers

Bethune-Cookman: 71
Howard: 63

Norfolk State: 80
Coppin State: 66

NC Central: 61
MD Eastern Shore: 48

SC State: 72
Morgan State: 68

North Carolina A&T: 93
Delaware State: 70

Dejuan Clayton (CSU): 23 points & two assists
Zacarry Douglas (NCCU): 14 points, nine rebounds
Terry Harris (NCAT): 25 points, four rebounds
Johquin Wiley (DSU): 18 points, six assists

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The post Southern MEAC teams find success in DC, Maryland and Delaware appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

The Howard University sophomore guard was named the MEAC Men’s Basketball Preseason Player of the Year on Thursday.

Last year’s MEAC Freshman of the Year, Cole ranked seventh nationally and led the MEAC with 23.7 points per game. Cole led the MEAC in three-pointers made with 109 led the league in minutes played. He scored 30-plus points on five occasions while scoring 20-plus points 25 times. Cole was also named MEAC Rookie of the Week on 13 occasions.
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He’s a part of a stellar preseason All-MEAC team that includes Charles Williams from Howard, Shawnrez Davis and Soufiyane Diakite from Bethune-Cookman, and Raasean Davis NC Central.

The full list of All-MEAC preseason selections is listed below.

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The post RJ Cole named MEAC Preseason Player of the Year, leads pre-season All-MEAC selections appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

MDES has decided not to renew Collins contract according to ESPN.
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Collins spent four seasons at MDES, going 49-82 during his tenure. His best season was his first as he led UMES to an 18-15 season after arriving from Winston-Salem State prior to the 2014-15 season. That early promise was followed by continual disappointment, as he lost at least 20 games in each of his final three seasons, including a 7-25 record this past season.

Prior to arriving in Princess Anne, Collins had won conference titles in both the MEAC (Hampton 2006) and the CIAA (WSSU 2012), however, he failed to advance past the semifinals at MDES.

Collins’ became the second coach in the MEAC let go as DSU dismissed Keith Walker just prior to the end of the regular season.

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The post Maryland-Eastern Shore parts ways with Bobby Collins, per report appeared first on HBCU Gameday.

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Tuesday results

In women’s hoops, 9th seed South Carolina State and 7th seed University of Maryland Eastern Shore fought to continue their seasons into the quarterfinal round. SC State upset 8th seed North Carolina Central, 76-67, and will play 1st seed North Carolina A&T Wednesday at noon. University of Maryland Eastern Shore came back from trailing at the half and won 77-60 over Delaware State, moving them ahead to face 2nd seed Bethune-Cookman Wednesday at 2PM, or 30 minutes following the conclusion of the SC State and NC A&T matchup.

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In men’s hoops, 9th seed Florida A&M sent 8th seed Howard back to Washington D.C early, winning in a back-and-forth scoring game 88-78. After the upset, FAMU will advance to face 1st seed Hampton on Wednesday evening at 6 pm.

6th seed North Carolina Central was victorious over 11th seed Coppin State, and moves on to face 3rd seed Savannah State on Thursday night on the second day of quarterfinal play. 7th seed Morgan State defeated 10th seed South Carolina State 83-80, advancing to play 2nd seed Bethune-Cookman on Wednesday night at 8 PM, or 30 minutes following the conclusion of Hampton against FAMU.

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Wednesday layout

Wednesday is the beginning of quarterfinal play, with it continuing into Thursday with four games slated for each day.

Women’s hoops will kick off the day at noon with NC A&T against SC State. A&T won over State in the regular season matchup. The winner of this game moves on to play the winner of FAMU and Savannah State on Friday at noon in the semifinals.
Following after will be UMES and Bethune-Cookman around 2 PM. Cookman won both regular season match-ups over Eastern Shore. The winner advances to play the winner of Hampton and Morgan State in semifinal play on Friday at 2 PM.

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Men’s hoops will start with Hampton and FAMU at 6 PM. FAMU was victorious over Hampton during the regular season. The winner of this game will meet the winner of NC A&T and Norfolk State on Friday in the semifinals at 6 PM.
The day will conclude with Bethune-Cookman and Morgan at 8 PM. Cookman won their sole regular season matchup. The winner continues on to play Savannah State or North Carolina Central in the semifinals on Friday night at 8 PM.

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