Box Score
By: Reshawn Garnett, VSU Sports Information Intern

James Vann put the nail in the coffin with a ferocious slam dunk as Virginia State University snapped a 23 game losing streak to rival Virginia Union University 70-65, on January 20th at the Freedom Classic in Richmond, VA. With this win the Trojans hop back to an even 8-8 overall record and a 3-4 record in CIAA conference play.   

The first half was a back and forth affair. The lead was tied over five times before a 36-36 stalemate at the end of one half of play. VSU's Mike Bynum scored six of his 18 points in the first half of play against the Panthers. James Vann gave the Trojans the lead twice thanks to his superb marksmanship. He scored 10 of his 12 points in the first half while Kenny Mitchell finished the first half with nine points.

Kenny Mitchell had 14 points on the night. Mitchell made most of his money from the foul line. Kenny Mitchell was 7 of 8 from the free-throw line at the end of regulation. That helped the Trojans stay within striking distance. The Trojans were taking and making good shots. VSU shot 10-21 from the field (48%) after the first 20 minutes of play.

The Trojans got off to an early 39-36 lead following a Mike Bynum three-pointer at the beginning of the second half. VSU would maintain a decent lead for a majority of the second half as Bynum poured in 12 second half points with five assists.  The Panthers shot a miserable 9-20 from the field in the second half due to the Trojans defensive pressure.  VSU's lead would only expand as the Trojans added to the Panther's woes with a 70-65 win. 

Mike Bynum scored a game-high 18 points, while Kenny Mitchell recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds. James Vann sparked the Trojans bench with 12 points and four assists. Virginia State University's men's basketball team last defeated Virginia Union in 2002. The 2012-13 Trojans put an end to a 23 game win streak held by VUU.

VSU dominated the paint putting VUU on a one shot per possession diet. The Trojans had a 20-14 advantage on the defensive boards and a 13-7 lead on the offensive glass.  The Trojans were on point from beyond the three-point arc shooing 60%. 

The Trojans will tangle with Chowan University on Wednesday, Jan. 23^rd in Petersburg, VA. They will look to even their conference record out at 4-4.