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ENROLLED ORIGINAL
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A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
26-154
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
May 5, 2026
To honor and recognize Howard University Bison men’s and women’s basketball teams for their
historic 2025–2026 seasons, outstanding achievements, and contributions to the District of
Columbia.
WHEREAS, Howard University, located in the heart of the District of Columbia, stands as
one of the nation’s most storied Historically Black Colleges and Universities, with a proud legacy
of academic excellence, athletic achievement, and cultural leadership;
WHEREAS, the Howard University Bison men’s and women’s basketball programs have
long served as pillars of pride for the University community, the District, and HBCU athletics
nationwide;
WHEREAS, during the 2025–2026 season, both the men’s and women’s basketball teams
delivered historic, nationally recognized performances that elevated the profile of Howard
University and inspired residents across all 8 wards;
WHEREAS, the Howard University Bison men’s basketball team, under the leadership of
Head Coach Kenny Blakeney in his seventh season, completed a 24–11 overall record and an 11–3
Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference record, earning the 2026 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
Regular Season Championship;
WHEREAS, the Bison went on to win the 2026 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference
Tournament Championship, securing an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament and representing
the District of Columbia on the national stage;
WHEREAS, the men’s coaching staff provided exceptional leadership and development
throughout the season, including Head Coach Kenny Blakeney, Associate Head Coaches Rod
Balanis and Nate James, and Assistant Coaches Tramel Raggs and Thomas Weaver;
ENROLLED ORIGINAL
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WHEREAS, the Howard University Bison women’s basketball team completed a
trailblazing 2025–2026 campaign, demonstrating excellence, resilience, and national-caliber
competitiveness;
WHEREAS, the women’s coaching staff provided outstanding leadership and mentorship,
including Head Coach Ty Grace in her 11th season, Associate Head Coach Brian Davis, and
Assistant Coaches Dr. Montel Jones and Casey Monroe-Gaskin;
WHEREAS, the women’s basketball team featured a dynamic and diverse group of student-
athletes whose talent, teamwork, and academic commitment exemplify the mission and values of
Howard University;
WHEREAS, both teams exemplified the highest standards of sportsmanship, academic
excellence, and community engagement, uplifting the University and the District through service,
leadership, and representation;
WHEREAS, the players, coaches, staff, families, alumni, and supporters contributed
immeasurably to these historic seasons, demonstrating the power of collective effort and the
importance of investing in equitable athletic opportunities for District youth; and
WHEREAS, the achievements of the 2025–2026 Bison men’s and women’s basketball
teams continue Howard University’s legacy of excellence and inspire future generations of athletes,
scholars, and community leaders.
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the “Howard University Bison Basketball Historic 2025–2026 Seasons
Recognition Resolution of 2026”.
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia honors and recognizes the Howard
University Bison men’s and women’s basketball teams for their historic achievements and
contributions to the District.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately.