Orangeburg, SC- Virginia State University secured a 63-56 victory over Claflin University in an intense basketball game that showcased impressive individual performances and strategic team play.

Amesha Miller led Virginia State with a standout performance, scoring 15 points on 7-of-10 shooting. She also contributed 6 rebounds and 2 assists in 30 minutes of action. Her efficient scoring helped anchor the team, especially as they navigated through periods of tight competition. Anii Harris also played a pivotal role, finishing with 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. Harris was effective from the free-throw line, hitting 5 of her 7 attempts, which helped maintain Virginia State's lead in critical moments.

Other contributors included Alexis Blake, who had 4 points and 5 rebounds, and Kendahl Spearman, who added 11 points off the bench, including a strong 3-for-5 shooting effort from beyond the arc. Tiyanna James provided valuable minutes with 9 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 assists, further spreading the wealth for Virginia State's offense.

For Claflin, it was Nya Morris who carried the team with an impressive 23-point performance. Morris shot 8-of-21 from the field, including 2-of-8 from three-point range, and added 4 rebounds and 3 assists in a game-high 38 minutes. Despite her scoring efforts, Claflin's shooting struggles were evident, particularly from long range, where they only managed to hit 6-of-21 three-pointers.

Ashari Lewis provided a spark off the bench for Claflin, contributing 14 points on 5-of-10 shooting, while Myla Lee had 6 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists in 28 minutes. Jasmyn Jefferies also played a key role, chipping in 3 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists.

Virginia State's ability to capitalize on fast-break opportunities and turnovers marked the game's flow. The team scored 26 points off turnovers, which was a key factor in its success. Virginia State's offensive efficiency was also notable, with 46.8% from the field and 33.3% from three-point range. They also shot a respectable 68.2% from the free-throw line, contributing to their control of the game.

In contrast, Claflin struggled with shooting throughout the game, finishing at 33.9% from the field and 28.6% from beyond the arc. Despite their best efforts, including a perfect 100% from the free-throw line in the third quarter, Claflin couldn't overcome their cold shooting stretches.