UPDATE: In a nail-biting showdown at CareFirst Arena in Washington, D.C., the Howard Bison edged out the Hampton Pirates with a score of 61-57 in the annual “Battle of the Real HU” on December 2, 2023. The thrilling finish unfolded in the final seconds, solidifying Howard’s victory in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
With just half a second left on the clock, Cam Gillus made a game-changing steal from Hampton’s Christian Watson, who was driving for a potential tying basket. Following the foul that ensued, Gillus confidently sank two free throws, sealing the win for the Bison and bringing their record to 8-5.
This victory was hard-fought, as Hampton had previously erased an eight-point deficit earlier in the half. Gillus had a standout performance, contributing 13 points and five steals, while teammate Bryce Harris led with 16 points. For Hampton, Jalyke Gaines-Wyatt shone with 20 points, but the team struggled with a dismal field-goal shooting percentage of just 26% (13-of-50).
The atmosphere in the arena was electric as fans witnessed a classic rivalry battle. Howard took the lead decisively with Gillus’ layup at the 7-minute mark, pushing ahead to 45-44. The tense moments that followed kept everyone on high alert as both teams battled for dominance.
As the season progresses, Howard’s resilience and performance in critical moments like these signal their determination for success. Fans and experts alike will be watching closely to see how the Bison build on this significant win.
What’s next for Howard? They will aim to maintain their momentum in the upcoming games, while Hampton seeks to recover from this setback. The season is far from over, and both teams have much to prove as they navigate through tough schedules.
This thrilling encounter not only highlights the competitive spirit of college basketball but also the importance of clutch performances in high-stakes scenarios. For those who missed the action, this game will be talked about for weeks to come—an unforgettable chapter in the storied rivalry between Howard and Hampton.
