HU doesn't get it done in front of Family One

Ron Bailey, Publisher

Obama's see Howard fall to Beavers.

November 30, 2010 - Saturday evening the Howard Bison (1-5) took on Oregon State (4-2) in Washington, DC, believing they could beat that PAC Ten squad, as occurred in Burr Gymnasium two years ago. Adding to their desire for victory were a group of special observers - President Barack Obama and his family (his wife, Michelle's brother, Craig Robinson, coaches the Beavers), and a larger than normal Thanksgiving holiday crowd. Unfortunately Kevin Nickleberry's crew couldn't get it done, falling 84-74.

Dadrian Collins did some of everything in his team's loss.

The loss wasn't for a lack of trying, as Howard owned a half time lead of 33-32, erasing an eight point deficit in that stanza. The performance was made more impressive given the lack of two key returning pieces - guards Calvin Thompson and Kyle Riley, a sophomore and senior respectively - and newcomer center Theodore Boyomo. Boyomo and Thompson are likely done for the year, while Riley is rumored to return in several weeks. People close to the program label these three players Howard's best.

Their absence was acute in the second half, where after leading 46-45 with 12:58 in regulation Howard was outscored 15-2 over the next three minutes and 16 seconds. During this period Oregon State sophomores Joe Burton (15 points, six rebounds) and Jared Cunningham (15 points, three rebounds, four dimes) were central, with Burton triggering much of the offensive action. Senior Omari Johnson paced the Beavers with 17 points.

Mike Phillips put in work.

Howard got a game and career high 24 points plus six rebounds from sophomore Anton Dickerson, while Gary Lawrence, himself a second year player, also notched career bests of 11 points and 11 caroms. Their classmate, Dadrian Collins, dropped 15 points, four boards and game leading seven dimes.

To hear Nickleberry discuss his team's challenges and the game, click here.

Robinson opines on the game, his team's development and strategy here.

Hear Collins discuss Howard's defensive alignments against Oregon State and going forward via this link.

Howard next meets Hampton in New York City's Big Apple Classic Saturday, while Oregon State hosts Utah Valley tomorrow.

The Obama family taking in game action.