Howard checked a major milestone off its program résumé Tuesday night, holding off a late surge from UMBC for an 86-83 victory in the First Four. The win marked the first NCAA tournament victory in Howard’s program history.
The Bison built enough of a cushion to survive a tense finish, as UMBC rallied late to cut into the margin and force Howard to execute down the stretch. Howard ultimately did enough to preserve the three-point win and secure the breakthrough result on the NCAA tournament stage.
In a game defined by momentum swings late, Howard’s ability to withstand UMBC’s closing push proved decisive. The final minutes tightened into a possession-by-possession finish, but Howard maintained its edge to seal the historic outcome.
A program first
For Howard, the result represents a landmark moment: the program’s first win in the NCAA tournament. The Bison’s First Four victory adds a significant chapter to the school’s postseason history, achieved by navigating a narrow margin and finishing the job under pressure.