NORFOLK, Va. (November 10, 2017) – Coach Ty Grace and the Howard University Women's Basketball team begin its new season Saturday when the William & Mary Tribes come to The Burr. Tipoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
 
SEASON IN REVIEW
 
A year ago, HU exceeded expectations after finishing second in the conference standings with a 12-4 mark and 16-13 overall. Howard fell in the conference quarterfinals against North Carolina A&T State, 68-58.
 
"We did more than what we were expected to do last year," Grace stated. "Going into this year, we're not as experienced, but I think we have a lot of talent. I expect our kids to compete."
 
On Oct. 25, the Bison were projected to finish fifth in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) after collecting 223 points.
 
SEASON PREVIEW
 
Despite losing MEAC Player of the Year Te'Shya Heslip and All-MEAC honoree Sydni Johnson to graduation, the young and talented Bison look to make a deep run in the conference tournament.
 
"I talk to my team about competing," Grace expressed. "I tell them the time is now, there's no reason to wait. I'm looking forward in developing these players, but I am expecting everyone to make a contribution."
 
This season, Howard returns 2016-17 MEAC All-Rookie selections Sarah Edmond and Jayla Myles. Both women are expected to fill voids left by the seniors.
 
"Both of them will fill gaps," Grace stated. "They got the experience last year and they're both talented in their respective positions. They know their roles and I am confident they will accept the challenge."
 
Another Bison to watch is sophomore forward Imani Bryant, who saw her season cut short due to a season-ending injury.
 
"She's missed a lot due to injury," said Grace. "She wants to emerge and get back on track before she got injured. I am definitely looking forward to it."
 
Before the setback, the California native played 13 contests (nine starts) and shot nearly 58-percent (38-of-66) from the floor.
 
MATCHUP PREVIEWS
 
Howard opens its 2017-18 with William & Mary at The Burr. This season, the Bison host 14 home games at The Mecca, including six non-conference matchups.
 
"It's an advantage, especially with a young team," Grace expressed. "For a young team to play in front of a home crowd gives them more confidence. Down the road, when these players gain more experience, playing away from home won't be as challenging."
 
WILLIAM & MARY
 
William & Mary was predicted to finish third in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) Preseason Poll. Senior center Abby Rendle was named Preseason All-CAA Second Team and the 2017 CAA All-Defensive Team. Last season, W&M won 20 games, which equaled a school record and advanced to the CAA Semifinals for the first-time since 2001. William & Mary finished fourth in the CAA in the regular season, which also tied for the best finish in school history.
 
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
 
HU starts a four-game road swing against crosstown foe Georgetown. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.