On the Scene: Howard University Bison vs.Harvard University's Crimson

I spent a wonderful afternoon at Howard University this past Saturday watching their men's basketball team take on the Harvard University Crimson. The crowd was a lively mix of current Howard students, Harvard and Howard alums, and local hoops fans. The Crimson men, lead by their coach, Tommy Amekar of Falls Church, Virginia, were well-matched in the Howard University Bison, with junior Marcel Boyd dazzling the crowd with his almost balletic physicality. And the action wasn't just on the court, as Howard's Showtime Marching Band had the crowd up dancing in their seats. They were assisted by the cheer squad and the Bison dance teams, including the Bisonettes and the Ooh La La dance team. The afternoon had special meaning for me since my parents met each other when they were attending Howard University. Here's the highlight reel!

Howard University's Showtime Marching Band

Howard University's Ooh La La Dance Team

Howard University junior Marcel Boyd gives the traditional salute during the singing of "Lift Every Voice and Sing", also known as the Black National Anthem 

Howard University sophomore Dalique Mingo warming up to take his free throw

One of the musicians of Howard University's Showtime Marching Band

The crowd stands for the National Anthem

Harvard University Crimson Head Coach Tommy Amekar played college hoops for Duke University before joining the Duke coaching staff and was raised in Falls Church, VA

Harvard University talks strategy during a timeout

Howard University's Marcel Boyd gets ready to take his shot

Howard University's Marcel Boyd goes airborne 

Founders Library at Howard University

Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, President of Howard University, showing his school spirit

Mr. and Miss Howard University along with the Howard University Royal Court

The Howard University Showtime Marching Band