Box Score
NORFOLK, VA (March 7, 2019)- Despite a promising start, early foul trouble stifled the first half for Howard, allowing the Spartans to go on a run that set the pace for the game. The 74-59 loss, pushes Howard to 10-6 in the Mid-Eastern Atlantic Conference (MEAC). Tip-off was at 5:30 in Echols Memorial Hall at Norfolk.

The first quarter was a back and forth offensive display. The Bison began the game with six quick three point field goals, five of which came from Jayla Thornton, who finished with 20 points and three rebounds.

The Bison defense was strong with Imani Bryant's five blocks and nine rebounds; however, Norfolk State was able to gain the lead. The Spartans outscored Howard in the paint 16-2 at the end of the first. Throughout the game, the Bison had difficulty connecting their shots.  Norfolk took an eight point lead at the end of the second quarter, ending the first half, 41-33.

Points allowed in the paint was a constant vexation to Howard, as 54 of the Spartan's 74 points came from there, shooting 50 percent from the field.

"That was uncharacteristic of us to give up that many points inside," said head coach Ty Grace.  Norfolk did a great job of finishing layups. I'm disappointed we didn't do a better job at defending the paint. We will watch film and make the necessary adjustments. I believe in this team and I know we will be ready for next week."

In the third quarter, Howard shot only 19 percent from the field. They were 1-for-12 from behind the arc. The Bison needed a strong fourth quarter to balance out the second and third quarters. Although they outscored the Spartans, 15-14 in the final period, it was not enough to secure the win.

Norfolk had a very balanced game with three players scoring in the double digits, Le'Deja James being the most notable with 19 points, 7-11 from the field.

The loss tied up the season series 1-1, each team winning their respective home games. Howard falls to fifth in the conference, costing them a bye in next week's MEAC tournament. The No. 5 seed will face Florida A&M on Monday, March 11, in Norfolk Scope Arena. Game time is set for 1 p.m.

About Howard University Athletics
The Howard University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics sponsors 19 NCAA Division I men and women varsity sports. The programs represent six conferences: the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), Coastal Collegiate Swimming Association (CCSA), Sun Belt Conference, Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) and Atlantic Sun (ASUN) Conference. Visit www.hubison.com to learn more.