I still remember watching that NCAA tournament game last March, the one where Howard University finally broke through after decades of near-misses. As someone who's followed college basketball for over twenty years, I've seen countless teams chase that elusive tournament success, but Howard's journey struck me as particularly compelling. There's something special about witnessing a program transform itself, and Howard's recent achievements remind me of what makes college sports so captivating.
The parallels between Howard's rise and what we're seeing across college basketball are impossible to ignore. Just look at that recent game where Kyt Jimenez scored 12 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter to lead Sarangani past Muntinlupa, 72-68. That kind of clutch performance in critical moments is exactly what separates good teams from great ones. I've always believed that championship teams aren't built in the first three quarters – they're revealed in the fourth. When Howard made their tournament run last season, they demonstrated that same ability to elevate their game when it mattered most. Their point guard, Elijah Hawkins, showed remarkable poise down the stretch in their conference championship game, scoring 14 points in the final eight minutes. That's the sort of performance that makes me sit up and take notice – it's what I call "winning time" basketball.
What really impresses me about Howard's development is how they've built their program the right way. Too many schools try to shortcut the process with quick fixes, but Howard's coaching staff has focused on sustainable growth. They've recruited players who fit their system rather than just chasing star ratings. I've had the privilege of speaking with several college coaches over the years, and the consistent theme among successful programs is cultural foundation. Howard has clearly established that foundation, creating an environment where players can develop both athletically and personally. Their defensive efficiency improved from 112th nationally to 47th over the past two seasons, a statistic that speaks volumes about their commitment to fundamental basketball.
The mental aspect of Howard's success deserves more attention than it typically receives. Basketball isn't just about physical talent – it's about resilience and composure. Watching Howard navigate the pressure of their conference tournament reminded me why I fell in love with this sport. They faced multiple double-digit deficits throughout the tournament, yet never seemed rattled. That mental toughness comes from somewhere, probably from the countless hours of practice and preparation that most fans never see. I've always maintained that tournament basketball reveals character more than it builds it, and Howard's character shone through when they needed it most.
Their offensive system has evolved beautifully over the past three seasons. The coaching staff implemented a more modern spacing offense that emphasizes three-point shooting and driving lanes. Howard increased their three-point attempts from 18.2 per game to 24.7 this past season while improving their percentage from 32.1% to 36.4%. Those numbers might seem dry to casual fans, but to someone like me who studies the game, they represent a strategic shift that aligns with contemporary basketball trends. The way they move without the ball, the crispness of their passes, the quality of shots they create – it's basketball that's both effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Recruiting has been another area where Howard has excelled. They've managed to identify under-the-radar talent that fits their specific needs. Take their power forward Marcus Dockery – he wasn't heavily recruited out of high school, but Howard saw something in him that others missed. Now he's developed into one of the most efficient post players in their conference, averaging 14.3 points and 7.8 rebounds last season. That ability to identify and develop talent is what separates good programs from great ones. In my experience covering college basketball, the programs that consistently succeed are those that trust their evaluation process rather than simply chasing rankings.
The fan culture surrounding Howard basketball has transformed dramatically during this ascent. When I attended games at Burr Gymnasium five years ago, the atmosphere was noticeably different. Now there's genuine excitement and anticipation surrounding the program. Student attendance increased by 42% this past season, creating the kind of home-court advantage that can swing close games. That energy feeds back into the program, creating a virtuous cycle that helps recruiting and performance. I've always believed that great college basketball programs need that symbiotic relationship with their campus community, and Howard has clearly achieved that.
Looking ahead, the challenge for Howard will be sustaining this success. College basketball history is filled with teams that had one magical season before fading back into obscurity. What gives me confidence about Howard's future is their institutional commitment. The university has increased its basketball budget by approximately $850,000 over the past two years, demonstrating serious investment in the program's continued growth. They're also upgrading their practice facilities and expanding their recruiting reach. These might sound like administrative details, but in my two decades covering college sports, I've learned that sustained success requires this kind of foundational support.
The broader significance of Howard's achievement shouldn't be overlooked either. As an HBCU making noise on the national stage, they're inspiring a new generation of players and fans. Their success creates opportunities not just for their program but for similar institutions across the country. I've spoken with several high school recruits who mentioned Howard's tournament run as influencing their college decision – that's the kind of impact that extends beyond wins and losses.
Ultimately, Howard's journey to NCAA tournament success represents everything I love about college basketball. It's a story of gradual improvement, cultural building, and seizing opportunities when they arise. Their 22-11 record last season might not look extraordinary to casual observers, but for those of us who understand the context, it represents a monumental achievement. The program has positioned itself for continued relevance, and I genuinely believe we're witnessing the emergence of a new force in mid-major basketball. Having followed their progression closely, I'm excited to see how they build on this foundation in the coming seasons.