WASHINGTON (February 26, 2022) – Howard University men's basketball team powered through North Carolina Central University (NCCU), 77-67, inside Burr Gymnasium.
 
With the win, HU moved to 15-11 (8-4 MEAC) overall while sweeping NCCU for the first time since the 1977-78 campaign.
 
All nine Bison scored for HU, led by star freshman Elijah Hawkins (Washington) with 17 points before fouling out.
 
Defensively, the Bison clamped down and completely dominated the first half, holding the Eagles to only 35-percent shooting (9-of-26). Graduate big man Randall Brumant (Houston) anchored the defensive end, altering shots while grabbing five boards.
 
Throughout the first half, the Bison held a double-digit advantage. Hawkins led the quick start with 11 first half points. Overall, HU shot over 65-percent (17-of-26) from the field before intermission.
 
Howard led at the break, 44-28.
 
After halftime, HU continued to dominate with Hawkins starting the period with a steal and a swift euro step layup, 57-40.
 
The Bison kept the pressure on throughout, including a three-pointer from junior Khalil Robinson (Columbia, S.C.) that erupted the crowd inside Burr.
 
NCCU began to chip away at the double-digit deficit late, but the Bison defense refused another Eagles' comeback.
 
In the waning moments, Brumant sealed the deal with a slam dunk to put the cherry on top.
 
Graduate sharpshooter Kyle Foster (Hampton, Va.) recorded 15 points and six rebounds (team-high) while Brumant added 11 points.
 
HU contributed 20 points off the bench, led by Robinson with a season-best 11 points, including a perfect 6-of-6 from the foul line.
 
Before the contest, Brumant, Foster and fellow graduates Tai Bibbs (Chicago) and Sam Green (Bowie, Md.) were recognized during the senior day festivities for their hard work and dedication to the men's basketball program.
 
For NCCU (14-13, 7-4 MEAC), Eric Boone registered a game-high 29 points on 57-percent shooting (8-of-14) in the loss.
 
Monday (Feb. 28), HU continues league play against South Carolina State inside Burr Gymnasium. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.