**Howard Softball’s Triumph: Bison Carry MEAC Banner into NCAA Tournament Showdown with Duke**
_From conference dynasty to national stage, Howard poised to make history in Durham_
Washington, D.C. — When the final out was recorded last Saturday at NSU Softball Field, the Howard University Bison didn’t just win a championship. They reignited a tradition, reminded fans of the program’s resilience, and set the stage for their next challenge: the 2025 NCAA Softball Tournament. After a dominant 6-1 victory over South Carolina State in the MEAC Championship, Howard secured an automatic berth to the national tournament, earning the right to represent the MEAC and all HBCU softball programs as they open up against No. 14 seed Duke in the Durham Regional on May 16, 2025.
The story of Howard’s season so far is one of determination, growth, and undeniable passion. The Bison finished the regular season with a commanding 20-1 conference record, their only loss coming early in the year at the hands of South Carolina State. Winning the MEAC tournament wasn’t just about the trophy; it was about redemption. “We came into this season with a chip on our shoulder,” said graduate pitcher Ameenah Ballenger, who was named Tournament Most Outstanding Player after recording her 12th win of the season in the championship game. “Losing to them earlier made us hungrier. We wanted to prove we’re the best in the MEAC and give our fans something to really celebrate.”
Ballenger’s performance epitomized the Bison’s postseason campaign. But she wasn’t alone. Senior Kenna Higa set the tone in the championship game with a leadoff double and later added another RBI double in the sixth inning. MEAC Rookie of the Year Lauryn Jones, known for her speed and clutch play, scored key runs and kept pressure on South Carolina State’s defense. Head Coach Tori Tyson, honored as the tournament’s Most Outstanding Coach, praised the leadership of her upperclassmen: “This team has grown so much. They believe in each other, and that belief is pushing us to new heights.”
The MEAC Championship win was Howard’s third in program history and their first since 2022. For a program with deep roots in HBCU softball, the return to the top is a testament to the resilience of Black college athletics. Historically, HBCU sports have produced legendary moments and figures who have shaped both the game and the culture of college athletics. Howard’s softball program is now part of that legacy, and this year’s squad is determined to leave its own mark.
The road to the NCAA Tournament is never easy, especially for HBCU programs that often face resource challenges and less national exposure. But the Bison are thriving thanks to a blend of homegrown talent and smart recruiting. While programs at Power 5 schools benefit from larger budgets and media coverage, Howard and other HBCUs have learned to compete through grit, innovation, and a sense of community. “You can’t put a price on the pride we feel representing Howard,” said senior Mia Gonzales, who played a key role in the championship run. “When we step on that field, we know we’re playing for something bigger than ourselves.”
As the MEAC champion, Howard enters the Durham Regional as the No. 4 seed, facing a formidable Duke squad that earned the right to host the tournament. The regional will also feature Coastal Carolina and Georgia, both with strong records and championship aspirations. The double-elimination format means every pitch, every inning, and every game is critical. “We have to be ready from the first pitch,” said Coach Tyson. “This is what we’ve worked for all year. We’re excited for the challenge.”
For HBCU fans, this tournament run means more than just wins and losses. It’s a chance to showcase the excellence of Black college athletics on a national stage. Howard’s success this season has reignited alumni pride and drawn attention from recruits who want to be part of something special. The Bison’s home games have been electric, with fans packing the stands and the band providing the soundtrack to every victory. The culture of Howard—rooted in tradition, academic excellence, and community—is inseparable from its athletic achievements.
In addition to the on-field action, the broader landscape of college sports is impacting HBCU softball. The rise of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities, the transfer portal, and evolving media rights deals present both challenges and opportunities for HBCU programs. While some worry that these changes could widen the gap between HBCUs and larger programs, others see them as a chance for Black college athletes to build their brands and gain national exposure. “We’re focused on helping our players maximize their opportunities, both on and off the field,” said an athletic department spokesperson.
For Howard, the immediate focus is on the NCAA Tournament. The Bison will need strong pitching, timely hitting, and relentless defense to compete with Duke, Coastal Carolina, and Georgia. But regardless of the outcome, this season has already been a success. The MEAC Championship was just the beginning. The real story is about pride, perseverance, and the enduring legacy of HBCU sports.
As the Bison prepare for their NCAA Tournament opener, fans and alumni are rallying behind the team. Social media is buzzing with support, and watch parties are being organized from Washington, D.C., to Durham and beyond. The band, the cheerleaders, and the entire Howard community are ready to make their presence felt, both in the stands and online. In a sport often overshadowed by football and basketball, Howard softball is proving that HBCUs can compete and inspire at the highest level.
Looking ahead, the 2025 NCAA Tournament represents not just a chance to win games, but a platform to elevate the profile of HBCU softball. Success in Durham could open doors for recruiting, alumni engagement, and even future media partnerships. For Howard, it’s about more than softball—it’s about legacy, culture, and the next chapter in the story of Black college athletics.
As the first pitch in Durham approaches, one thing is certain: the Bison are ready to carry the MEAC banner with pride, passion, and purpose.
The Durham Regional begins on May 16, with Howard facing Duke at noon. Coverage of all 16 regional sites will be available on ESPN platforms, ensuring fans can follow every pitch and play as Howard seeks to make history. Whether the Bison advance or not, their journey is already inspiring a new generation of HBCU student-athletes—and reminding the world that the legacy of Black college sports is alive and well.