Virginia State (6-0) used a quick start and tough defense to defeat visiting Salem International (1-1), 68-47, at Daniel Gymnasium. The Trojans jumped to a 22-4 lead in the game's first 9:04. The Trojans forced 19 turnovers by the Tigers in the first half and led, 35-25, at intermission.

Salem International closed the gap to seven, 36-29 on a basket by Whitney McCargo with 17:44 to go in the contest but could get no closer. The Trojans scored eight of the game's next nine points to lead 44-29 with 15:33 to go on a layup by Lamesha Deal.

For the game, the Trojan defense forced 31 turnovers and registered 16 steals while limiting the Tigers to 25.5 percent (14-55) shooting from the field.

Four players scored in double figures for the Trojans led by Deal's 14-point, 8-rebound performance. Tiffanie Adair added 13 points with seven rebounds, Da'Shae Jones scored 12 points and dished out six assists and Alexandria Massado scored 10 points with eight boards. Salem International's Porcha Davis led all scorers with 18 points and teammate Inkera Patterson scored 15 points.

Coach James Hill's team hosts Alderson Broaddus on Saturday, Nov. 23 at 4:00 p.m. at Daniel Gymnasium.