DURHAM, N.C.- The Virginia State University Trojans men's basketball team made program history on October 28 after taking on the Duke University Blue Devils. The matchup marked the official start of the 2016-17 season for both teams. The Blue Devils took the win with a final score of the contest was 90-59.
The stands of the legendary Cameron Indoor Stadium were filled with a mix of Trojan and Blue Devil fans for the festive occasion.
Starting for the Trojans were returners junior
Waymond Wright, sophomore
Walter Williams, senior
Amiel Terry and All-CIAA Preseason picks seniors
Elijah Moore and
Kevin Williams.
Less than a minute into the game, VSU showed that they came to play, with the first bucket of the game made by
Kevin Williams. A short time later Wright secured the first 3 pointer of the game.
Duke controlled the pace of the game, keeping everything fast and high energy. To the Blue Devils surprise, VSU was able to work hard, keep up and play with precision.
Despite the Blue Devils height advantage, the Trojans did not hesitate jumping up for the rebounds.
In the first half
Kevin Williams led the team in scoring while returning junior
Tyler Peterson remained in place to snag 5 rebounds in the first half. VSU entered halftime with a score of 42-27.
The high powered first half gave Coach Blow insight on what to expect this season. "I'm very proud of our effort and how we performed at a high level in the first half," said Blow.
The second half moved slow as both teams worked to regain their spark. After several interesting shots, a questionable play, a numerous time outs, Duke extended the scoring gap.
Wrapping up the contest, sophomore
Walter Williams secured 11 points, leading the team in baskets. New to the Trojans roster was senior
Ken Woodard, leading the team with 7 rebounds.
Although out number on many areas, VSU was equally match with the Blue Devils with 28 shots in the paint.
Despite taking a 90-59 loss to Duke, the Trojans played hard.
"All in all, it is a game we can defiantly build on, we just have to get back to practice and look at our film and mistakes," said Coach Blow.
Duke's legendary Coach K had great things to say about the Trojans during post-game interviews. "VSU is a very well coached team and played extremely hard tonight," stated Coach K.
The stop to Cameron Indoor Stadium is the first of 3 major exhibition games. The Trojans will stop off in Norfolk, VA to take on the ODU Monarchs on Nov.2. Tip-off is set for 7pm.
For more information on VSU Trojans men's basketball, follow Trojans Athletics on Twitter @VSUsports, or call 804-524-5030.
