Washington, DC - James "J-Byrd" Daniel poured in a season-high 35 points and backcourt mate James "JT" Miller added 21 to lead Howard University to a 106-64 win over Medgar Evers College in a non-conference men's basketball game at Burr Gymnasium. It was the first win of the season for the Bison (1-2) and their home opener.

Daniel, a 5-11 junior guard from Hampton, VA, came into the game averaging almost 26 points per game and it did not take the sharpshooter long to get going. Hitting on 7 of his first 11 shots, including 3 for 5 from beyond the arc and a perfect 9 for 9 from the free throw line en route to 26 first half points.

"It felt like weight was lifted off our shoulders," said Daniel. "We were able to get off to a fast start. We picked up on our defense and lockes in on their scorers. This is definitely a confidence builder for us."

Miller, his 6-5 junior backcourt mate, was equally effective as he hit on 7 of 10 from the field for 18 points.

"It is always good to get that first win," said Miller, who came into the game averaging over 20 points.

The duo was instrumental in a 22-9 run that helped Howard take a 57-36 lead at the half. The Cougars (0-2) got 14 first half points and Matthew Lee contributed 12, but it was not enough to offset the prolific scoring of Daniel and Miller.

"That team came into the game having scored 90 points in the first game," said Howard head coach Kevin Nickelberry. "There have been some Division 1 teams around the country who have lost to non Division 1 opponents. So we were aware of them. We just felt that our guards were better and that our defense and depth would be the difference."

With the game in hand, Nickelberry gave Daniel and Miller a chance to get a few minutes before he began to substitute. Reserve junior forward Solomon got into the scoring act, tallying 11 of his 13 in the second half. Tyler Stone (7 points) Damon Collins (8 points) and Kofi Andoh (6 points, 6 rebounds) all contributed.

"These guys have a lot of confidence," said Nickelberry. "To have Solomon shoot the ball like that (5 of 10) and Kofi and Oliver (Ellison) make contributions will go a long way toward our preparation moving forward."

Added Miller. "We are now beginning to get chemistry. We are learning to play each other."

The Bison will face Texas Southern on Monday in the Men Speak Up Event in Las Vegas.

"It is all about us," said Nickelberry. "We are very explosive. We can get points in transition and we can get points off turnovers. When we play like that, I feel that we can compete with anyone."

Howard shot 60 percent from the floor, outrebounded the Cougars, 49-32 and held a huge 46-18 advantage in the paint.

The Cougars were led Maurice Swaby, III who led his team with 17 and Matthew Lee who contributed 15.

GAME NOTES: The 35 points by Daniel was three points shy of his career mark.

NEXT UP: The Bison face Texas Southern on Monday at 12:30 pm.