WASHINGTON, D.C. – North Carolina Central ends the first half of its two-week road trip at Howard on Saturday, Feb. 21. The Eagles and Bison are set to tip off at 12 p.m. inside Burr Gymnasium. NCCU is looking to get back into the win column after being tripped up mid-week at South Carolina State.
Game 26:
NC Central (10-15, 6-4 MEAC)
at Howard (17-10, 7-3 MEAC)
Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 – 12:00 p.m.
Burr Gymnasium – Washington, D.C.
ESPN+ | Live Stats
Series History: The Eagles dropped its first contest to the Bison in January, which was their first conference loss of the season after a 3-0 start. Within three points at the half, Howard put its foot on the gas in the second half, defeating the Eagles 83-69. NCCU hasn't won in Burr Gymnasium since 2019 and are 4-6 since versus the Bison. NC Central still leads the overall series 50-33.
Scouting Howard: Howard has won two straight games and five straight conference games. The duo of Bryce Harris and Cedric Taylor III lead the Bison, both averaging over 17 points per game. Howard is first in the MEAC in scoring defense (68.0 ppg), opponent field goal percentage (.420), free throw percentage (.729), rebounding (36.1 rpg), assists (15.54 apg) and steals (8.85 spg). The Bison are also top 10 in the nation in turnovers forced per game (15.41 – 10th).
Last Time Out: NC Central had a tough outing at South Carolina State on Wednesday, falling 85-72. The Eagles were down six at the break and fought back in the second half with an 8-0 run for their first lead since less than 15 minutes to go in the first half. SCSU came out strong afterwards to regain the lead, shooting 66.7 percent in the second half and ultimately defeated NCCU. Jae Slack led the way for the Eagles with 17 points, dominating on the drive and getting to the free throw line.
MEAC Standings Carousel: The MEAC standings are still unsettled. Howard remains in first place with a 7-3 conference record. Morgan State (6-3) sits in second place alone after NC Central's loss at South Carolina State. Norfolk State is tied at third with NCCU, both with 6-4 records. SCSU, Maryland Eastern Shore, Coppin State and Delaware State make up the remainder of the conference standings.
For more information on NCCU Athletics, visit NCCUEaglePride.com.
