Date/Time: Saturday, November 8 – 2:00 p.m. EST
Location: Washington, D.C. | Burr Gymnasium
Broadcast: ESPN +
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Florida A&M enters its matchup against Howard looking to turn defensive grit and rebounding effort into their first signature win of the season. Despite early offensive struggles, the Rattlers have shown flashes of potential — especially on the boards and in rim protection.
FAMU ranks 2nd in the SWAC with 5.0 blocks per game, thanks to forward Za'Naria Robinson, who sits first in the league with 2.0 rejections per contest. That presence inside could be the key to slowing down Howard's interior scoring.
Offensively, FAMU will look to improve on its 43 rebounds per game (4th in the SWAC), and translate second-chance opportunities into points. The Rattlers' hustle on the glass, led by emerging post players and an improving frontcourt rotation, has kept them competitive against stronger opponents.
Expect the Rattlers to lean into a physical, defensive-minded approach — forcing a slower tempo, protecting the paint, and working to control the boards. If they can convert more efficiently at the line and beyond the arc, this could be a breakout night for FAMU.
Key Player to Watch: Za'Naria Robinson – Her shot-blocking and presence in the paint could set the tone for the Rattlers' defensive success.
X-Factor: Rebounding intensity — FAMU averages 17 offensive rebounds per game, one of the better marks in the league, and that could help offset shooting woes.
The Path to Victory: Dominate the glass, protect the rim, and find rhythm in transition before Howard's half-court defense can set up.
Howard Preview
Howard comes into the matchup with strong early-season form and one of the MEAC's most balanced rosters. The Bison have established themselves as a defensive power, ranking 1st in the MEAC with 6.0 blocks per game, while allowing just 56 points per game — a top-three mark in the league. Offensively, Howard is shooting an efficient 37.3% from the field and an elite 85.7% from the free-throw line, both areas where they hold a clear advantage over Florida A&M.
Forward Zennia Thomas has been a force inside, averaging 3.0 blocks per game, while April Edwards provides perimeter punch, connecting on 75% of her threes so far. The Bison also protect the ball well, ranking 1st in the MEAC in fewest turnovers (12 per game).
Howard's combination of interior defense, balanced scoring, and experience makes them a formidable opponent — but they'll need to weather FAMU's physicality and energy.
