WASHINGTON (December 14, 2018) – Howard University Men's Basketball team dug themselves out of a double-digit deficit but were unable to complete the comeback as they fell on the road to crosstown rival George Washington, 70-64, inside the Charles E. Smith Center.
 
HU (6-4) got into hole after shooting only 24-percent (8-of-34) in the first half and trailed George Washington by 10 points, 32-22.
 
"We had a great pace to start the game," said Howard Men's Basketball head coach Kevin Nickelberry. "We want to score 40 [points] each half, but unable to hit shots."
 
After intermission, the Bison found their rhythm early and cut the margin to a single-possession game at the 12:58 mark, thanks to a layup from sophomore guard RJ Cole (Union, N.J.), 46-43.
 
"We were trying to establish sets rather than take the first shot in the first half," Nickelberry stated. "We did a better job in the second half and got back into the game."
 
Cole led the way with 15 points, seven dimes, and six boards. Junior guard Charles Williams (Richmond, Va.) added 12 points in the loss.
 
"We didn't have the miscellaneous plays go our way," Nickelberry continued. "With missed free throws and loose balls opportunities, the small things didn't go our way. When you're on the road, you have to make a couple plays and we didn't tonight."
 
HU reached the foul line 31 times and shot 68-percent (21-of-31) from the charity stripe.
 
"I knew eventually we would have a tough shooting night this year and tonight was it," Nickelberry concluded. "But the guys battled and gave themselves a chance to win. This is a resilient brunch of guys."
 
Newcomer Akuwovo Ogheneyole (Delta State, Nigeria) flirted with a double-double, finishing with nine boards and eight points. Sophomore forward Zion Cousins (Upper Marlboro, Md.) had a solid game on the glass, registering a season-high 12 rebounds in a losing effort.
 
Four Colonials (3-8) reached double-figures, led by DJ Williams a game-best 18 points.
 
Coach Nickelberry and the Bison have a quick turnaround as they head to New York where the Fordham Rams await (Dec. 16). Game-time is set for 2 p.m.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.