COACH HOWARD AND COUGAR BASKETBALL: ABOUT BUILDING "FAMILY"
As the 2026-27 men's basketball season is approaching, Coach Rafael Howard enters his 13th year as a coach with Cougar basketball and his fifth year at the helm of the program. He has 30 years of coaching experience, and his philosophy is simple. "We believe in holding ourselves to a high standard, believe in the process of success, competing with relentless toughness, and building relationships that last well beyond playing basketball at Cleveland State." Three simple words: Toughness, accountability, family. This is Coach Howard's recipe for the process.
When asked what drew him to coaching, Howard was quick to reply, "Basketball changed my life as a student-athlete and coach. It taught me discipline, accountability, and perseverance, and I wanted the opportunity to help young people experience that same growth. What motivates me today isn't just winning games—it's watching our players mature into responsible men, earn their degrees, and reach their dreams through basketball."
He was asked what it means to be able to coach at Cleveland State, "It's an honor and a blessing. Cleveland State has given me the opportunity to serve studentathletes and help build young men. I take great pride in representing this college, our community, and everyone who has invested in this program. Every day, we're working to build a program that those connected to Cleveland State can be proud of."
What type of student athlete best fits in your program, Coach Howard was exact in saying, "We chase dreamers, guys looking to play at the next level, guys who embrace the process of success. We look for athletes who are tough and willing to be coached. Young men who have a
team first mind set. Talent is very important, but character, work ethic, and the drive to get better every day is important to us."
When asked what were the standards and values important for his team to live by: "We expect our players to compete with maximum effort, treat others with respect, and take ownership of their actions. We tell our guys to control what they can control, emphasizing
energy, effort, and toughness every single day. Those are qualities that translate to life."
He was asked what one thing tht the average fan may not know about his program, he stated, "People often see the games, and practices but they don't always see the investment we make in our players off the court. We spend time developing young men academically and personally. Our goal is to help them leave Cleveland State better than when they arrived."
What should a student athlete expect that would make their experience special at Cleveland State: "We care about our guys. We create an environment where relationships matter, academics are valued, and every player is challenged to work toward their dream. When our student-athletes leave Cleveland State, we want them to feel they were part of a family that believed in them."
With the upcoming season approaching, what are you most excited about this team, "I'm excited about the character of this group. We have young men who are committed to work, who understand the process to success and eager to compete. This group is willing to embrace
the work it takes to build a championship culture. Our guys are passionate about the game and the work required within it."
In a Q & A session, Coach Howard touched on several parts of his coaching perspectives:
Engagement
Who had the biggest influence on you as a coach or athlete?
My mother and the coaches who invested in me over the years. They taught me to be a sponge, soaking up as much knowledge as possible. They also taught me that great coaching is about developing relationships and people. That's something I carry with me every day.
What does a great teammate look like in your program?
A great teammate is selfless, accountable, and encourages others. We want players who care about each other's success on and off the court.
Recruiting and Program
What do you look for when evaluating a potential recruit?
Toughness and high character come first. We want student-athletes who value the process, guys who believe in work and compete with toughness. We look for athletes who are excited to represent Cleveland State the right way.
How can a recruit stand out to you?
Be consistent in your effort, energy and toughness. The small details matter. Being a good teammate is huge. Talent gets noticed, but character and work ethic leave a lasting impression.
Season Update
What has been the biggest area of growth for your team this season?
With 8 returning players, this group has continued to grow in trust, communication, and playing for something bigger than themselves.
What has impressed you most about the incoming class?
Their willingness to learn and their excitement to be part of our culture. They understand that growth happens through hard work and serving the team
Community and Campus Connection
How do athletics help create campus energy and school spirit?
Athletics brings people together. They give our students, faculty, alumni, and community something to rally around while creating pride in Cleveland State.
What would you say to a student who has never attended a CSCC athletic event?
Come experience it for yourself. You'll see student-athletes who compete with passion, represent the college with pride, and appreciate the support of our campus and community.
