In a groundbreaking development, Howard University won its first-ever NCAA tournament game against UMBC on March 19, 2026. This victory marks a significant achievement for the historically Black university, which has made three trips to the NCAA tournament in the past four years.
The win comes during Black Press Week 2026, celebrated from March 16-20, under the theme “Truth, Trust, and Technology: Approaching 200 Years of the Black Press in a Transforming Information Age.” The event underscores Howard’s commitment to preserving Black media history through initiatives like the Black Press Archive Digitization Project.
Howard University, founded in 1867 and located less than a 15-minute drive from Capitol Hill, has a rich history of advancing Black media and education. The university’s men’s basketball team secured its spot in the NCAA tournament by winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship, a significant feat that adds to the excitement surrounding the tournament.
Historically, Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) were not included in the NCAA tournament when it began in 1939. The first HBCU to win an NCAA tournament game was Alcorn State University in 1980. Howard’s recent victory positions them to potentially become the first HBCU to reach the third round of the NCAA tournament if they win their next game.
Brandon Nightingale, a representative of the university, stated, “The event was a tremendous success.” This sentiment reflects the enthusiasm surrounding both the basketball team’s performance and the ongoing Black Press Week activities.
As Howard University continues to make strides in collegiate athletics, the implications of this victory extend beyond the court. The financial benefits of NCAA tournament participation are significant, with each tournament unit earning approximately two million dollars, a crucial resource for HBCUs.
Kameron Hayes, a student-athlete, remarked, “It’s history-making to say the least,” emphasizing the importance of this moment for the university and its community. Liam Allen, another student, added, “I think the money that they win should go to them,” highlighting the need for equitable distribution of resources within collegiate sports.
As the tournament progresses, the excitement builds around Howard University and its basketball team, which is poised to make history in the coming days. The university’s commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics continues to shine brightly on the national stage.
