[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 100 (Monday, June 15, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E579]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING HOWARD UNIVERSITY MEN'S BASKETBALL PROGRAM AND THEIR HISTORIC 
                            2025-2026 SEASON

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GREGORY W. MEEKS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 15, 2026

  Mr. MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable 
achievements, leadership, and enduring impact of the Howard University 
(HU) Men's Basketball program. Led by Head Coach Kenneth Blakeney and 
his entire coaching staff, HU's historic 2025 to 2026 season brought 
immense pride to the University, the Washington, D.C. community, and 
Historically Black Colleges and Universities nationwide.
  During the 2025 to 2026 season, HU recorded the second-most regular 
season wins in program history and later won the Mid-Eastern Athletic 
Conference Championship (MEAC), securing another National Collegiate 
Athletic Association (NCAA) Tournament appearance and continuing the 
program's rise on the national stage. Most notably, the HU Bisons 
earned their first-ever NCAA Tournament victory, a milestone 
achievement that cemented this team's place in Howard University 
history and inspired countless students, alumni, and supporters across 
the Nation.
  The Howard University Men's Basketball program has shown that success 
is measured not only by historic victories and championships, but by 
the lives impacted along the way. Beyond their historic accomplishments 
on the hardwood this season, Coach Blakeney, his staff, and the student 
athletes have remained deeply committed to serving the Washington, D.C. 
community. Through mentorship initiatives, youth engagement, community 
outreach, and service efforts throughout the District, these young men 
have continuously demonstrated what it means to lead with purpose and 
represent their university with honor.
  As a proud Howard University Law alumnus, extending this honor will 
always hold a special meaning to me. I know firsthand the 
transformative impact that Howard University has on its students and 
the broader community. The legacy of this historic basketball program 
will shape lives, develop the next generation of leaders, and uplift 
communities for years to come.

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