Ettrick, VA- The Virginia State University women's basketball team fall short to the Lady Panthers of Virginia Union University, 60-51, on February 4.

The Trojans move to a 15-7 overall record 7-5 in the conference.

Taking charge of the Trojans scoring were senior Nandi Taylor with 14 points, junior Endia McKinney with 12 points and senior Domonique Hagins with 10 points. Senior Taylor Daniels led the VSU's recoveries with 10 rebounds.

VSU got off to a slow start offensively as the Lady Panthers went on an 11-0 run to start the game. A three pointer by junior Endia McKinney in the latter portion of the quarter made it a 15-9 game in favor of the Lady Panthers. With 50 seconds remaining in the quarter Taylor went coast to coast for a layup to bring the Trojans within four points (11-15). Despite a rough start the Trojans managed to end the first quarter only down by a six point margin.

Senior Joy Hickman opened the second quarter sinking a three pointer to bring the Trojans within striking distance. Early second quarter turnovers by Virginia Union allowed VSU a chance to close the scoring gap. At the 6:05 mark, McKinney knocked one down from behind the arc to give the Trojans their first lead of the contest (22-21). The Trojans 57.1 percent (4-7) shooting from behind the arc in the second quarter played a huge part in closing the scoring gap. However, VUU ended the quarter on a taking a 35-25 lead into the half.

The Trojans struggled in the third quarter, trailing the Lady Panthers by as many as 20 at the 2:52 mark. VSU continued to battle back and a three pointer by Taylor cut the Panthers lead in half to end the third quarter.

VSU outscored the Lady Panthers, 10-8, in the fourth quarter. At the 5:20 mark a pair of free throws by Daniels brought the Trojans within single-digits, cutting the Lady Panthers lead to 55-46. Moments later McKinney went two for two at the line to make it an eight point game, but the Lady Panthers would secure the 60-51 win.

VSU ended the night shooting 23.4% (15-64) from the field, 24.2% (8-33) from behind the arc, and 81.3% (13-16) at the line, while VUU ended the game shooting 49% (24-49) from the field, 18.2% (2-11) from behind the arc, and 50% (10-20) at the line.

As the final games of the season draw near, the Trojans will take on the Hawks of Chowan University on February 8. Tip-off is set for 5:30pm in Murfreesboro, NC

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.