SALEM, WV- The Virginia State University women's basketball team defeated the Marauders of Central State University on December 9 for Day 1 of the Joe Manchin Classic, hosted by Salem International University. The Trojans ended the day with a 67-50 win.

Holding a 5 game winning streak, the Trojans have a 6-1 overall record.

Taking control of the game was senior Nandi Taylor with 16 points. Junior Mia Fitts chipped in 11 points while senior Joy Hickman collected 11 points, a game high of 7 rebounds.

Dominating the court early in the contest, the Trojans grasped a large lead over Central State. Senior Alison Bragaw-Bulter secured a shot from behind the arc to give VSU a double-digit lead with 4:21 left in the first quarter. Relying on 3 pointers and jumpers, the Trojans took a 20 point lead (25-5) at the end of the first quarter.

The Marauders attempted to close the scoring gap, but were unsuccessful as the Trojans capitalized off of missed shots and turnovers. Going into halftime, VSU controlled the game with a 37-18 lead.

Returning to the court for the third quarter, both teams applied pressure in hopes of securing a win. Central State jumped back into the battle, getting within 9 points of a tied game. The Trojans held on to the lead to close the third quarter, 44-35.  

After a slow start to the fourth quarter, VSU gained momentum from a 3 pointer shot by junior Yolanda Danzler. The Trojans managed to steal the ball, giving Nandi Taylor a chance to chip in an additional 3-pointer for VSU. The Trojans stayed consistent for the remainder of the contest to take the 67-50 win.

Bench points (22-14) and points off of turnovers (8-6) help elevate the Trojans to their victory.

VSU ended the night shooting 35.7 percent (20-56) from the field, 45.8 percent (11-24) from behind the arc, and 69.6 percent (16-23) at the line, while the Marauders ended the night shooting 31.1percent (19-61) from the field, 33.3 percent (5-15) from behind the arc, and 63.6 percent (7-11) at the line.

The Trojans will return to the court on December 10 to face the Salem International University Tigers for Day 2 of the Joe Manchin Classic in Salem, WV. Tip-off is set for 5pm.

VSU is working hard to prepare for the 2017 CIAA Basketball Tournament on February 20-25 in Charlotte. NC.

For more information on VSU Trojans women's basketball, follow Trojans Athletics on Twitter @VSUsports, or call 804-524-5030.