Howard Basketball Star Blake Harper Navigates Transfer Portal Amid Potential Return to Bison Nation
Washington, D.C. – April 22, 2025
Blake Harper, the breakout freshman phenom for Howard University’s men’s basketball team, has entered the NCAA transfer portal, sparking widespread speculation about his collegiate future. Yet, despite interest from top-tier programs, Harper remains strongly connected to Howard and is seriously considering returning to the Bison for his sophomore season.
Harper’s sensational freshman campaign established him as one of the most impactful players in HBCU and college basketball nationwide. He started all 32 games for Howard during the 2024-25 season, averaging an impressive 19.5 points per game, which ranked him 26th nationally among all Division I players. His efficiency was notable, shooting 44.7 percent from the field and boasting a 40.4 percent three-point shooting clip. On the free-throw line, Harper was reliable, converting 82.5 percent of his attempts. Beyond scoring, he contributed 6.2 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 31 steals over the season, underscoring his all-around game and durability, having logged 1,104 minutes on the court.[1][5][8]
The Washington, D.C. native broke new ground at Howard by becoming the first player in MEAC history to earn both Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year honors in the same season, a testament to his immediate impact.[8] Harper’s standout performances included five 30-point games, highlighted by a career-high 35-point outing in an overtime battle against Hampton, where he scored 20 points from the free-throw line alone. His 82.5 percent accuracy from the stripe showed his clutch ability during tight moments.[1][8]
Despite his commitment to Howard, a school that gave him his first scholarship offer and a nurturing environment steeped in HBCU culture, Harper has attracted significant attention from power conferences. His presence on the transfer portal has narrowed to a final four schools: Creighton, LSU, Ohio State, and Howard itself, meaning a return to the Bison remains a viable and attractive option.[1][2] The cultural embrace of Howard, combined with Harper’s family’s appreciation for the HBCU experience, weighs heavily in this decision.[5]
Coach Kenneth Blakeney commented on Harper’s situation, reflecting the bittersweet reality for HBCU programs: “With the climate what it is and the numbers Blake put up, you start to think about the opportunities out there. But Howard has been home for Blake, and we’re doing everything to keep him here because he embodies the spirit of what we’re building.”[7]
The current college basketball transfer landscape, influenced by NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities and increased mobility, presents a unique challenge for HBCUs. While larger programs may offer more lucrative NIL deals, Harper’s ties to Howard and the desire to uplift HBCU basketball culture remain strong counterweights. Sports Illustrated labeled him among the “most tampered-with players in college basketball,” highlighting the pressure on the program to retain such a generational talent.[5][7]
Harper’s decision carries significance beyond just his individual career. Howard’s 2024-25 season concluded with a 12-20 overall record and a 7-7 MEAC mark, indicating room for growth. Retaining Harper could be a cornerstone for the Bison as they aim to rise within the MEAC hierarchy and attract future talent. His choice will also send a message to other HBCU players about the possibilities within their own programs, amid the broader shifts in college athletics.[1][5]
Looking ahead, Howard’s basketball program will closely monitor Harper’s decision while preparing for the 2025-26 season. The coaching staff and administration are focused on enhancing recruiting, facilities, and NIL engagements to provide a competitive and enriching atmosphere for current players and prospects.
Harper himself has expressed appreciation for the cultural and familial atmosphere at Howard but acknowledges the complex considerations ahead: “Howard gave me my start, and that means a lot. I want to keep growing both as a player and person, and I’m weighing all my options carefully.”[5]
The final decision may come in the coming weeks, but regardless, Blake Harper has already cemented his place as a pioneering figure in HBCU basketball history. His journey reflects the evolving landscape of college basketball transfers, the rising profile of HBCU athletics, and the enduring cultural pride that defines Howard University and its Bison basketball program.
Upcoming games and developments for Howard will depend greatly on roster decisions, but the Bison’s commitment to competitiveness within the MEAC and nurturing their star players remains steadfast as they look to build on recent momentum.
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