RICHMOND, VA (February 22, 2020)- The Virginia State University men's basketball team were not able to outlast the Virginia Union University Panthers, falling 83-78, to end the regular season. Despite the loss, the Trojans still clinched the CIAA Northern Division Title with a 19-8 overall record, 12-3 in the conference.
The Game
The Trojans had a slow first half as the Panther had an edge with their home court advantage. Numerous missed shots plagued VSU's game as they worked to close the scoring gap. William Vedder and Antwan Miles kept the Trojans in the game, each securing 8 points in the half.
VSU entered the locker room at halftime, trialing 46-34.
Returning to the court with a new found momentum, the Trojans outscored the VUU in the second half of the game, 44-37.
Gradually closing the scoring gap, a shot from behind the arc by Walter Williams left VSU trailing, 59-55. Ryan Jones and Vedder joined Williams in the efforts as the game tied 59-all and 61-all. A free throw by Armond Griebe gave the Trojans their first lead of the game. Although the lead was short lived, it was regained by additional free throws from Jones and Jamal Washington. A layup by Francis "BJ" Fitzgerald gave VSU a 72-69 advantage, but the Panthers would bounce back to take the game in the final seconds with a score of 83-78.
Leaders
The Trojans had four players to score in double-figures. William Vedder led the way with 16 points, followed by Walter Williams with 15. Antwan Miles and Ryan Jones were evenly matched, rounding out the Trojans top scoring with 10 points each. Francis "BJ" Fitzgerald made a defensive effort for VSU with 10 rebounds (8 defensive) to accompany his nine points. Lual Daniel Rahama stepped in to lead the team with 4 steals and 4 assists, while Vedder tallied 2 blocks.
Up Next
The VSU men's basketball team will travel to Charlotte, NC for the 2020 CIAA Basketball Tournament. The Trojans will tip off at 6:40pm on Wednesday, February 26 at the Bojangles Coliseum to face the winner of the Claflin verse Elizabeth City State contest.
Stay Connected
For the most up-to-date information on VSU men's basketball, please visit www.govsutrojans.com, follow Trojans Athletics on Twitter @VSUsports and on Instagram VSUtrojans_1882
