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Ohio State Women's Basketball Takes on Howard in NCAA Showdown

3/17/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ohio State women's basketball will face Howard in the NCAA Tournament Round of 64 on March 21 in Columbus, with Ohio State favored by 30 points.
Howard is making its first NCAA appearance since 2022 after winning Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship.
In the men's First Four, UMBC is favored by 2.5 points over Howard on March 17, and the over/under is 140.5.
Both games will be broadcast on ESPN2.

History

Historical Context

The NCAA Tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985, enhancing competition and allowing schools like Howard University to gain national visibility. This change followed a trend of increasing inclusivity in collegiate athletics, particularly for historically black colleges and universities. As Howard returns to the tournament after its 2022 appearance, it underscores the lasting impact of this expansion on college basketball's landscape.

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Story summary

Ohio State women's basketball will face Howard in the NCAA Tournament Round of 64 on March 21 in Columbus, with Ohio State favored by 30 points.
Howard is making its first NCAA appearance since 2022 after winning Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship.
In the men's First Four, UMBC is favored by 2.5 points over Howard on March 17, and the over/under is 140.5.
Both games will be broadcast on ESPN2.

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