Butler Basketball: All-Decade Team for the Dawgs of the 2010s

Matt Howard (2008-2011)

Matt Howard was possibly the easiest selection for any spot in this All-Decade Team. A four-year star that was a major leader on both deep runs in the NCAA Tournament, the 6-foot-9 big man epitomized Butler Basketball. Even though only his final two seasons took place during this decade, he is the type of player that will find his way onto every All-Butler roster until essentially the end of time.

Howard started 132 of 141 career games with the team and averaged in double-figures as a scorer in every single season. Perhaps the most impressive part of development as a player was his 3-point shooting. After shooting 5-for-20 across his first three seasons with the program combined, Howard showcased the addition of a perimeter jumper during his senior campaign as he shot 53-for-133 (39.8%) in that season alone. He always strived to improve and was a reliable star for Coach Stevens.

Howard consistently put his body on the line for Butler and was the type of energy/hustle player that embodied the spirit of the program. By the time the final buzzer sounded on his career, Howard ranked among the top scorers in Butler history. Although Kelan Martin and Kellen Dunham passed him a few years later, Howard still holds the No. 5 spot on the all-time scoring list for the Bulldogs.

Howard ended his collegiate career as a two-time Horizon League Tournament MVP, a two-time Horizon All-Defensive Team selection, and a one-time Player of the Year for the conference. He was also awarded the 2011 Lou Henson Award as the nation’s best mid-major performer. In addition to his superb play on the court, Howard was a three-time Academic All-American as a star in the classroom as well.

It is impossible to argue Howard’s inclusion on this list as perhaps the most notable player in program history.