Former Howard University men’s basketball forward Steve Settle III’s NBA journey has already taken an unexpected turn. The Miami Heat announced Settle’s signing on Oct. 14, marking his promotion from an Exhibit 10 contract to an NBA deal. However, just two days later, the team waived him to make room for guard Bez Mbeng.
In the NBA, being waived doesn’t mark the end of a player’s professional chances. Teams often waive players under Exhibit 10 or non-guaranteed contracts to secure their rights for their G-League affiliates, allowing the player to continue developing while staying connected to the franchise.
In Settle’s case, some fans and analysts think the move could pave the way for him to join the Sioux Falls Skyforce, Miami’s G-League team, where he can build on his preseason experience and remain on the organization’s radar.
Mbeng, a three-time Ivy League Defensive Player of the Year from Yale University, filled Settle’s preseason roster spot. Despite the quick roster change, Settle’s path from Howard to the NBA is part of a growing trend for HBCU basketball, which continues to earn national attention for developing pro-level talent.
For Howard head coach Kenneth Blakeney, Settle’s signing came as no surprise, given the forward’s steady growth, work ethic and pro-level potential that had been evident since his time at Howard.
“For me, it was expected,” Blakeney said. “Steve and I had conversations about this all the time. I always felt Steve was going to be an NBA player. There was no doubt in my mind.”
A native of Glenarden, Maryland, and a product of DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Settle joined Howard’s men’s basketball team in 2019 and became a key part of the program’s turnaround.
During his time with the Bison, Settle helped lead Howard to a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) championship and its first Men’s NCAA Tournament appearance since 1992.
Blakeney recalled how Settle’s hard work and patience led to his development. When he arrived at Howard, the 6-foot-8 forward was about 175 pounds, but Blakeney and his staff focused on building his strength and versatility.
“We redshirted him that first year,” Blakeney said. “We even had him play point guard on the second team to develop his basketball skills.”
Settle joins a growing list of historically Black college players earning professional opportunities, including Hampton University guard Noah Farrakhan, who joined the San Antonio Spurs’ 2025 NBA Summer League roster, and Alabama State University standout TJ Madlock, who played with the Detroit Pistons’ Summer League team.
During the 2024–25 season at Temple University, Settle posted 12.6 points per game, 6.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks, leading the Owls in rebounds and blocked shots. He reached double-digit scores in 24 games, logged four double-doubles, and closed his collegiate career with 12 straight games of 11 or more points.
After his senior season, Settle moved to Jonesboro, Arkansas, to prepare for the NBA Draft. He worked out with several teams, including the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers, while sharpening his skills and adjusting to the league’s intensity.
“Your life can change with any phone call,” Settle said to The Temple News before the draft. “I’ve done my part, and once that happens, the real work starts.”
Although Settle was not selected in the NBA Draft, he earned a contract with the Miami Heat, proving that determination, preparation and hard work can open doors even when the traditional path does not.
Over his NCAA career, Settle started in 126 of the 128 games he appeared in, finishing his collegiate career with 1,485 points, 706 rebounds, 177 assists, 162 steals and 118 blocks.
Thomas Weaver, a former teammate and now assistant coach at Howard, said seeing Settle reach the NBA is both exciting and validating for the program.
“It was a pleasure being his teammate for four years,” Weaver said. “He helped us win the first [MEAC] championship since 1992, and arguably, we were the best team in Howard basketball history. It’s great to see his journey and where he is now.”
Ayodele Taiwo, another former teammate at Howard University and an All-MEAC Defensive Team selection during the 2024-2025 season, echoed that excitement.
“It’s amazing to see that he signed with Miami,” Taiwo said. “He’s a really good player and a good guy. I’m very happy for him and know he’s going to do great things.”
Settle appeared in five NBA Summer League games with Miami, where he averaged 2.2 points, 2.4 rebounds, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks per game.
Copy edited by Daryl R. Thomas Jr.
