WASHINGTON (March 30, 2026) — Bryce Harris, a graduate student from Brentwood, N.Y. and five-year starter for the men’s basketball team, has been named the recipient of the 2025–26 Nolan Richardson Award. The award is one of college basketball’s most prestigious honors recognizing the player who embodies leadership, toughness, and the spirit of their team. 

Presented annually by CollegeInsider.com, the award honors a Division I player who serves as the “heart and soul” of their program — both on and off the court. 

The Nolan Richardson Award is named for Hall of Fame coach Nolan Richardson, whose high-energy style and championship success left a lasting imprint on the sport. Harris now joins an elite group of players recognized for embodying those same qualities. 

“Given his impact on winning, Bryce Harris is without question the best player to ever suit up for Howard basketball,” said Angela Lento, vice president of College Insider, Inc. and member of the Nolan Richardson award voting panel. “You can’t watch a Howard game and not come away thinking he’s a difference-maker. It’s a short list of mid-major players that have been a part of three NCAA Tournaments in four years. Bryce Harris is a winner.” 

For Howard University, Harris’ selection represents a defining moment in the program’s continued ascent on the national stage. In addition to being a leader on the court, Harris has been a standout student on campus. He is a member of the Alpha Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and has founded his own business.  

A 6’4” guard, Harris was instrumental in leading the Bison to a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) championship this season and a return to the NCAA Tournament, delivering consistent performances while setting the tone as the team’s emotional and competitive leader. After being named MEAC Player of the Year earlier this month, Harris dominated the MEAC tournament, earning a double-double (14 points and 10 rebounds) in the championship game win over North Carolina Central (70-63) Mar. 14, en route to being named the tournament MVP.  

“Bryce Harris is everything this award represents,” said head coach Kenny Blakeney. “He is selfless, resilient, and unwavering in his commitment to this team. What he has done for this program — on the court, in the locker room, and in our community — has been transformational.” 

Harris’ impact extended beyond his play, capturing national attention following Howard’s NCAA Tournament matchup against Michigan Mar. 19. His post-game comments — centered on pride, perseverance, and representing The Mecca — quickly went viral across social media, resonating with audiences far beyond college basketball and reinforcing his role as a powerful voice for the program. 

“Bryce represents the very best of Howard University,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Kery Davis. “His leadership, character, and ability to rise in defining moments reflect the excellence we expect of our student athletes. This recognition is not only well-deserved — it is a testament to the culture we are building.” 

As Howard continues to build momentum nationally, Harris’ legacy stands as a cornerstone of that progress — proof that leadership, authenticity, and belief can elevate not only a team, but an entire institution.