WASHINGTON D.C. (October 28, 2021)- The Virginia State University Men's Basketball team started the season with an impressive outing, despite losing to the Bison of Howard University 84-80.

 
In the exhibition matchup against the Division One, MEAC members, the Trojans came out on fire scoring 50 points before the time expired in the first half. With the help of  Francis Fitzgerald's (Danville, VA) sharp shooting, the Trojans made a total of six three pointers in the first half creating a spark that was undeniable. VSU shot an efficient 46% from the field while accounting for eight steals on the defensive end. The Trojans dominated the first half as they took a lead into the locker room,50-37. 
 
The Trojans were led by Junior guard Francis Fitzgerald as he paved the way with a game-high 25 points. Junior guard Antwan Miles (Hampton, VA) gave a great boost of scoring and energy to the potent Trojan offense and defense connecting on six field goals, finishing with 16 points and six steals on the night. 
 
In the second half, the Bison found a way to mount a comeback with the help of second chance points off the offensive boards. The Bison were able to outrebound the Trojans in the second half by 15, leading to a more efficient half for the Bison inside Burr Gymnasium. The Bison outscored the Trojans 47-30 in the second half which lead to the 84-80 final score. 
 
Jonathan Norfleet (Virginia Beach, VA) aided the Trojan offense by scoring nine points, while leading the team with three assists. Junior transfer Terrence Hunter-Whitfield (Chesterfield, VA) was a big influence in the success of the VSU offense scoring 10 points and playing 30 minutes in his first appearance as a Trojan. Jordan Hernandez (Richmond, VA) came up with four rebounds along with three blocks while the seven-footer James Love, III (Miramar, FL) came up with three blocks on the bench. 
 
 
Next up for the Trojans, the young squad will face Virginia Commonwealth University November 1 at the Siegel Center with a 7:00 p.m. tip-off.