ETTRICK, VA – Virginia State women's basketball team dropped their second-straight game to Lincoln (Pa.), 67-45. The Trojans had one of their worst nights shooting as the squad ended with a 26% shot percentage and an 18% three-point percentage. The loss drops their conference record down to 5-5.
Natalia Leaks led the team in scoring yet again with 13 points. Leaks also posted five rebounds and a steal while knocking down all four of her free throws.
Shayla Sweeney scored nine points while bringing down four rebounds in the contest.
Valerie Samuel posted her ninth game with five or more assists as the guard scored seven points along with five rebounds and five assists.
Sommer Blakemore and
Kaaliya Williams each scored six points in the contest as Blakemore added six rebounds and two steals as well. VSU accounted for seven steals while forcing 14 turnovers on the night. The Trojans were outrebounded 35-22.
How It Happened
- The first five minutes of the game was action packed as the two teams traded baskets until Sommer Blakemore knocked down a three-pointer to put the Trojans in front, 10-9 with 4:21 left to go in the first quarter.
- The Lions would end the first quarter with an 8-2 run to go in front 17-11 heading into the second quarter.
- While Natalia Leaks was able to knock down a three-pointer to bring the game to within three, LU scored 10 unanswered points to extend their lead to double-digits for the first time in the game. Lincoln (Pa.) held a, 27-14, lead with 4:21 left in the half.
- The Lions extended their lead to, 36-16, heading into the locker room at halftime thanks to a huge second quarter outscoring the Trojans, 19-5.
- Natalia Leaks led the team with nine points along with three rebounds at the conclusion of the first half. Valerie Samuel led the game with four assists. The Trojans shot 83% from the foul line while accumulating four steals in just a half of play.
- The Trojans scratched and clawed to get themselves back in the game but Lincoln (Pa.) kept their foot on the pedal throughout the third quarter, 50-24 with 5:14 left in the third quarter.
- The Lions stretched their lead to as many as 28 points, as the squad was able to take a 57-31 lead into the fourth quarter.
- The Trojans mounted their best scoring run of the game as they went on a 10-1 run to bring the score to, 61-41, with 4:29 left in the game.
- The Lions put an end to the Trojans comeback attempt and went on to close out the game, 67-45.
Inside the Box Score
- The Trojans forced 14 turnovers while accumulating seven steals
- The Trojans were outscored 19-5 in the second half
- VSU shot 80 % from the free throw line
Up Next
The Trojans will head down the road to Richmond for a date with the Panthers of Virginia Union on Saturday, February 5. Tipoff is set for 2:00 p.m.
