Virginia State Triumphs Over Shaw with a 90-76 Victory
Raleigh, NC-Â In an impressive display of offensive efficiency, Virginia State claimed a commanding 90-76 win over
Shaw. The game, filled with strong performances from multiple players, showcased Virginia State's remarkable shooting and solid defensive play, while Shaw struggled with shooting consistency throughout the match.
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Virginia State had a stellar shooting performance, converting 58.3% of their field goals (28-48) and 40% from beyond the arc (6-15). Their free-throw shooting was particularly impressive, making 28 of 30 attempts (93.3%). Jacob Cooper was a standout for the team, scoring 18 points, including a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line, along with 9 rebounds and 2 assists. His all-around play was crucial in securing the victory for Virginia State.
Clint Wright Jr. also delivered a strong performance with 17 points, including 3 three-pointers on 6-of-9 shooting, and added 4 rebounds and 3 assists. The team also benefited from Jayson Harris's efficient shooting, finishing with 10 points on 4-for-4 shooting, and Dajour Rucker, who also scored 10 points.
Virginia State's first-half shooting was particularly impressive, as they shot a scorching 68% from the field (17-25), with a near-perfect free-throw performance (9-10, 90%). Even in the second half, they maintained a solid 47.8% shooting percentage, including 19-of-20 from the free-throw line, a critical factor in closing out the game.
Shaw, despite a strong showing from several key players, faced challenges in their shooting, finishing the game with only 34.3% (23-67) from the field and 26.3% from three-point range (5-19). Trent McIntyre led Shaw with 17 points, making 11-of-12 free throws, but struggled from the field, shooting only 3-of-10.
Deveon Scott, one of Shaw's primary offensive weapons, was also inefficient, shooting 5-of-15 for 11 points. Meanwhile, Elijah Scranton added 7 points, including a key three-pointer, but the team as a whole could not find their rhythm from beyond the arc. Shaw improved slightly in the second half, shooting 41.18% (14-34), but it wasn't enough to overcome Virginia State's strong first-half lead.
Virginia State's dominant shooting performance, especially their proficiency at the free-throw line, proved too much for Shaw to overcome. Shaw's lack of consistency, particularly in the first half, allowed Virginia State to build an insurmountable lead. With balanced scoring, strong bench contributions, and excellent free-throw shooting, Virginia State cruised to a 90-76 victory, securing a comfortable win on the road.