Mobile, AL—The Howard University men's basketball will look to build on its recent performance when it takes on the University of South Alabama in the final round of the Gotham Classic at the Mitchell Center.  Tipoff is scheduled for 8 pm, Eastern time.
           
Although the Bison (6-7) dropped a 53-45 decision at Pepperdine on December 18, Howard head coach Kevin Nickelberry was strongly encouraged by the effort.  In the Waves, Howard faced a team that averages almost 75 points per game, features three starters who average in double figures and two others who average just under 10.
           
But the Howard defense, which has been solid most of the season, but stifling of late, frustrated Pepperdine into a 30 percent shooting performance.
           
"That game showed what our identity is," noted Nickelberry.  "That it's all about the collective effort of representing Howard with our defensive energy and effort, first and foremost."
           
The Bison (6-7) played without second leading scorer, James "JT" Miller.  The 6-4 sophomore guard who averages 13 points, was held out because of the flu.
           
But James "J-Byrd" Daniel, III and James "JC" Carlton who combined for 39 points between them and other members of the team made important contributions in Miller's absence.
           
"This is an example of what this team is becoming in its growth and maturity," said Nickelberry.  "The overall agenda is playing together for each other and not worry about individual agendas which allows us to put different people in when needed."
           
The formula for the Bison has been controlling the boards (plus 6), holding opponents to under 30 percent shooting from the field and forcing turnovers with its pressure defense (8 steals per game).
           
The Jaguars (2-7) have lost four in a row—including two in overtime---and have struggled on the offensive end.  Their most recent loss was a 75-71 setback at IUPUI, an opponent that the Bison defeated in the Classic.  A victory would give the Bison a 2-2 mark in the Classic while the Jaguars are winless.
           
"We need to take that same effort that we displayed at Pepperdine to South Alabama," he said.  "When this team plays together with the effort they have displayed, I can live with the outcome.  I believe in these young men."
 
NEXT UP: Howard returns to the hardwood on December 28 when it travels to the Bronx to take on Fordham University at 6 pm.