Senior forward Desmond Williams was the top scorer against Howard
with a total of 33 points and 13 rebounds | Photo credit: Ahmon Lott
The Rattlers played an intense game on Saturday evening, but the Howard Bison defeated Florida A&M 83-80 in overtime.
FAMU started the game strong with minimal offensive errors and a focused defensive, ending- the first half with a three point lead.
In the second half, Howard went on a run to regain control with three point shots by sophomore guard Charles Williams and freshman guard RJ Cole. With the score at 56-49 in Howard’s favor, FAMU fought back and outscored the Bison in the final 5:25, forcing the game into overtime.
Missed baskets on behalf of Howard in the last 18 seconds of the game also contributed to the game going into overtime.
According to FAMU senior guard Elijah Mayes, the young men began to lose momentum and failed to communicate with other players.
“We made some defensive errors late in the game down the stretch,” Mayes said. “We just need to get back to communicating with each other on the defensive next game and executing our defensive game plans better.”
FAMU’s Desmond Williams was the top scorer against Howard, leading the Rattlers with a total of 33 points and 13 rebounds.
Howard lead overtime with a layup and two free throws, which took the score to 80-74, but Williams cut it to 82-80 with two free throws with 29 seconds to go. Despite their effort, junior guard Justin Ravenel missed a 3-pointer in the final seconds of the game and the Rattlers failed to get the win.
Although the Rattlers were defeated, they acknowledge the major improvements they have made since the start of the 2018 basketball season.
“We just need to stay engaged,” Ravenel said. “On the defensive end and have more energy going into this game.”
The Rattlers face off against Maryland Eastern Shore on Monday night on the road.