AB Williamson, the man who led Washington D.C.-based HBCU Howard University to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance has passed away.
Williamson is Howard’s all-time winningest coach, with a 108-62 MEAC record. His best season was in 1986-87, with a 25-5 overall record and a 13-1 conference record.
AB Williamson coached at Howard University from 1976 to 1990, achieving a 241-182 record. He led the team to back-to-back MEAC Tournament championships in 1980 and 1981 and an NCAA Tournament appearance in 1981. That 1981 Howard team won the MEAC Tournament championship and earned the first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance by a MEAC team, reflecting a strong postseason run.
Howard University struggled to find success following Williamson’s departure in 1990, winning just one MEAC title in the next 30 years. It has returned to prominence under head coach Kenneth Blakeney, who has led the team to back-to-back MEAC titles and NCAA Tournament appearances.
Blakeney released a statement reflecting on the impact of AB Williamson at Howard University.
“One of the great honors for me during my time at Howard has been the relationship I’ve formed with him. AB served as our “Captain of the Day” in 2022 and was on the floor alongside me as we accepted the 2023 MEAC Tournament Trophy, bridging the gap between so many eras of Bison greats.
We remember Coach Williamson as more than a coach; he was a builder of character and a pillar of our community. His legacy as the winningest coach in Howard’s history is reflected in the countless lives he touched and the enduring spirit of excellence he fostered.
Coach Williamson, thank you for your unwavering dedication, profound wisdom, and extraordinary legacy at “The Mecca”. You have left an indelible mark on all of us, and you will be deeply missed. Rest in peace.”
Williamson played his college basketball at another fellow HBCU North Carolina A&T under the tutelage of legendary men’s basketball coach Cal Irvin.