By R.G. Mason

1/20/2024

BOX SCORE

https://nsuspartans.com/boxscore.aspx?path=mbball&id=6766

WASHINGTON D.C. – Norfolk State junior Jamarii Thomas buried a go-ahead 3-pointer in the final 30 seconds of the Spartans’ matchup at Howard on Saturday, completing a 15-point second half comeback by the road team. NSU defeated the Bison 65-61 at Burr Gymnasium, collecting head coach Robert Jones‘ 200th career victory in the process.

Jamarii Thomas and Allen Betrand led Norfolk State (12-8, 2-1 MEAC) with 14 points each, both shooting 5-of-11 from the field and both recording four rebounds as well. Christian Ings also scored in double figures.

The historic milestone came in a familiar location for Jones, who earned his 100^th career victory in a 24-point comeback effort against Howard at Burr Gymnasium on Feb. 2, 2019.

“For a guy that never really dreamed of coaching basketball growing up, to get 200 wins is amazing,” Jones said. “It’s a testament to everybody here, especially my staff. I thank Marty Miller all the time for giving me the opportunity, and of course AD Melody Webb and Dr. Javauane Adams-Gaston from there. Thank you.”

Checking The Box Score

• Jamarii Thomas and Allen Betrand led the Spartans with 14 points each
• Christian Ings added 11 points
• Norfolk State erased a 15-point second half deficit on Saturday
• Howard forward Bryce Harris led the Bison with 21 points and 11 rebounds
• Norfolk State’s bench outscored Howard’s 48-7
• Chris Fields Jr. contributed six points, five rebounds, and four steals off the bench
• NSU forced Howard to commit 19 turnovers, amassing 12 steals

News & Notes

• Norfolk State improved to 12-8 with the win, 2-1 in MEAC play
• Howard dropped to 8-12 on the season, 2-2 in conference action
• The win marked the 200^th victory of Norfolk State head coach Robert Jones‘ career
• The milestone came in the same venue where Jones recorded his 100^th career win, erasing a 22-point deficit to defeat the Bison 80-78 on Feb. 2, 2019
• Jamarii Thomas knocked down a go-ahead 3-pointer with under 30 seconds remaining in Saturday’s contest, giving NSU its first lead since the game’s opening minute
• Norfolk State now leads the all-time series between the programs 51-14, snapping a three-game losing streak against the Bison

UP NEXT

Norfolk State has a week to rest and prepare for its next matchup, facing Coppin State at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 27 at Echols Hall. The showdown against the Eagles marks the first leg of a three-game homestand for the Spartans.

For complete coverage of Norfolk State Athletics, please follow the Spartans on social media at @nsuspartans (Twitter), /NorfolkStateAthletics (Facebook), @NSUAthletics (Instagram), @nsuathletics (YouTube) or visit the official home of Norfolk State Athletics at nsuspartans.com.

COURTESY NORFOLK STATE ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS