Howard Men's Swim Team Defends Title, Wins Third NEC Championship In Four Years

The Bison captured their third NEC Championship in four years at the SPIRE Institute

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Howard University men's swimming & diving team defended its title and captured its third NEC Championship in four years on Saturday night at the SPIRE Institute. The Bison put together a composed and complete team performance across the four-day meet, with standout performances from swimmers like Jack Barr, Solomon Goins, Ameer Bashir, Taj Benton, and Mason Green.

Why it matters

Howard's continued dominance in the NEC swimming championships showcases the strength of the university's athletics program and its ability to attract and develop top-tier talent. The Bison's success also highlights the growth of HBCU sports programs and their ability to compete at the highest levels.

The details

Howard opened the night with distance points from Jack Barr and Solomon Goins in the 1650 Freestyle. In the championship final of the 200 Freestyle, Ameer Bashir placed fourth and Darien Williams finished in the top 15. The sprint final proved pivotal, with Taj Benton, Jalen Stewart, and Ibrahima Diouf all scoring points. Sophomore Mark Brown contributed 14 points in the 200 Breaststroke, and standout swimmer Mason Green earned silver in the 200 Fly. The Bison closed out the events with a bronze finish in the 400 Medley Relay.

  • The NEC championship title was defended by the Howard University men's swimming & diving team on Saturday night (February 22, 2026).
  • The four-day meet took place at the SPIRE Institute.

The players

Jack Barr

A swimmer from Nassau, Bahamas who placed 5th in the 1650 Freestyle, earning the Bison 14 points.

Solomon Goins

A swimmer from Dallas, Texas who placed 7th in the 1650 Freestyle, securing 12 additional points for the Bison.

Ameer Bashir

A swimmer from Hartly, Delaware who placed 4th in the 200 Freestyle championship final, earning 15 points.

Taj Benton

A swimmer from Baltimore, Maryland who placed 4th in the 50 Freestyle sprint final.

Mason Green

A standout swimmer who earned silver in the 200 Butterfly, scoring 17 points for the Bison.

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The takeaway

Howard University's men's swimming & diving team has cemented its status as one of the elite programs in the NEC, winning its third conference championship in four years. The Bison's depth, talent, and coaching have allowed them to consistently compete at the highest level and defend their title, showcasing the growth and competitiveness of HBCU sports programs.