Hawks Mid-Season Review and Conference Preview
The Howard College Hawks have had an incredible season so far, boasting an impressive 14-5 record as they navigate the 2024 campaign. The Hawks have been dominant at home, remaining a perfect 8-0 at the Dorothy Garrett Coliseum in Big Spring heading into their Martin Luther King Day clash against their fierce rival, South Plains College. In fact, when playing at home or neutral sites, Howard has compiled a remarkable 13-1 record, showcasing their ability to thrive in comfortable settings.
This level of success is hardly unexpected, considering the intense competition within the Western Junior College Athletic Conference (WJCAC), widely regarded as one of the toughest in the nation. At the halfway point of the season, the Hawks are averaging just shy of 78 points per game on an efficient 50% shooting from the field. Their prowess extends beyond the arc, where they've hit 34.1% of their shots, and at the free-throw line, converting at a reliable 70.6% rate.
Howard's dominance isn't limited to scoring, as they've been winning battles across nearly every statistical category. The Hawks are out-rebounding opponents by more than seven boards per game and have averaged 15.7 assists compared to their opponents' 10.9. They've forced nearly 17 turnovers per game, while also leading in steals, blocks, and fouls drawn, all while holding opponents to a mere 62.5 points per game.
However, the road ahead will test the Hawks' resolve. As WJCAC conference play heats up, Howard faces its toughest stretch yet, with five other conference rivals ranked in the Top 10 for Region 5 and 14. Currently sitting in sixth place in the WJCAC standings, the Hawks will need a strong finish to secure one of the top four spots, which would earn them a berth in the Regional Tournament.
Fortunately, Howard has several stars ready to shine on the big stage. Forward Preist Ryan has been a force all season, leading the WJCAC in scoring at 18.9 points per game. Guard Keziah Ekissi also cracks the top 10 in scoring, contributing nearly 13 points per contest. Ryan has proven to be a versatile threat, ranking 10th in rebounding, 4th in field goal percentage (an impressive 59%), and 7th in free-throw percentage (over 80%). Ekissi has been lethal from beyond the arc, ranking 5th in three-point shooting at a stellar 42%, while also dishing out nearly four assists per game, good for 5th in the conference.
Defensively, the Hawks have been anchored by Guard Daniel Culberson, who ranks 2nd in the WJCAC with over two steals per game, and forward Jahki Gupton, who has been a formidable presence near the rim with nearly a block per game.
The Hawks' next challenge comes with a two-week road trip, culminating in their much-anticipated return to Big Spring on February 3rd for a clash against Frank Phillips College. With their strong home-court advantage and the talent to compete with the best in the WJCAC, the Hawks are poised to make a serious push for postseason glory.
Fans should stay tuned as Howard looks to solidify its place in the Regional Tournament and continue building on what has already been a stellar season. The journey promises to be thrilling, with the Hawks ready to rise to every challenge that lies ahead.