Howard University Bison Basketball Historic 2025–2026 Seasons Recognition Resolution of 2026

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Janeese Lewis George

Honors Howard University Bison basketball teams for historic 2025–2026 seasons, highlighting MEAC titles, NCAA bid, and district-wide inspiration.

Resolution ACR26-0151, Effective from May 05, 2026 Published in DC Register Vol 73 and Page 008636

Summary of CER 26-0154 | Howard University Bison Basketball Historic 2025–2026 Seasons Recognition Resolution of 2026

Purpose and intent

This is a ceremonial resolution by the Council of the District of Columbia to honor and recognize Howard University Bison men's and women's basketball teams for their historic 2025–2026 seasons.

The resolution aims to celebrate their achievements, contributions to the District of Columbia, and the broader impact on the Howard University community and local residents.

Key provisions and changes

Acknowledgment of Howard University as a prominent HBCU located in DC, emphasizing its academic, athletic, and cultural leadership.

Recognition of the Howard Bison men’s basketball team’s 2025–2026 season achievements:

Head Coach: Kenny Blakeney (seventh season)
Final record: 24–11 overall
MEAC conference record: 11–3
Secured the 2026 MEAC Regular Season Championship
Won the 2026 MEAC Tournament Championship
Earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament

Recognition of the Howard Bison women’s basketball team’s 2025–2026 season achievements:

Under Head Coach Ty Grace (eleventh season)
Noted for excellence, resilience, and national-caliber competitiveness

Acknowledgment of the coaching staffs for both teams:

Men’s staff: Kenny Blakeney (head), Rod Balanis (associate), Nate James (associate), Tramel Raggs (assistant), Thomas Weaver (assistant)
Women’s staff: Ty Grace (head), Brian Davis (associate), Montel Jones (assistant), Casey Monroe-Gaskin (assistant)

Emphasis on sportsmanship, academic excellence, and community engagement by both teams.

Recognition extends to players, coaches, staff, families, alumni, and supporters for their roles in the historic seasons.

The resolution states the intent to inspire future generations of athletes, scholars, and community leaders while highlighting equity in athletic opportunities for District youth.

Who is affected

Howard University student-athletes (men’s and women’s basketball teams) and coaching/medical/support staff.

Howard University community (students, faculty, alumni) and District of Columbia residents who follow or are impacted by the university’s athletic programs.

The broader DC community benefiting from the teams’ representation and community engagement.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Introduced: April 20, 2026 (CER26-0154) by Councilmember Janeese Lewis George.

Action history indicates:

April 20, 2026: Introduction
May 5, 2026: Retained by the Council; Final Reading, CC
May 5, 2026: Approved with Resolution Number ACR26-0151 (the resolution is filed as a ceremonial resolution; numbering indicates parallel adoption)

Effective date: Immediate upon adoption.

Additional notes

The document frames the 2025–2026 seasons as historic and nationally recognized, highlighting the district-wide inspiration generated by the teams.

As a ceremonial resolution, its primary function is formal recognition and commendation rather than policy change or funding authorization.