Virginia State Tops Bluefield State for the Victory in Tight Battle


Ettrick, VA- In a thrilling and highly competitive contest, Virginia State University (VSU) triumphed over Bluefield State College with a final score of 66-61 in a riveting matchup. This game was packed with intense moments, pivotal turnovers, and standout contributions from key players.

Virginia State came out strong early in the game, with Anii Harris leading the charge. Harris scored multiple layups in the paint, helping her team build an early lead in the first half. She was a constant threat around the basket, finishing plays and contributing to the team's momentum.

However, Bluefield State quickly responded with a balanced offensive attack. Jasmine Jenkins was particularly effective inside, contributing key layups, while Caiyiah Smith was deadly from beyond the arc. Smith's three-pointer at the 5:02 mark ignited a strong run for Bluefield State, bringing them within reach after Virginia State had established a slight advantage. Smith continued to shine with timely scoring in the latter stages of the game.

Defensively, both teams struggled with turnovers, but Bluefield State managed to capitalize on key steals from players like Azariah Binford and Tianna Rhodes, who made crucial stops throughout the game. These steals and defensive rebounds kept Bluefield State competitive, allowing them to take advantage of offensive opportunities.

Virginia State stayed strong, with Carmen Kweti and Amesha Miller contributing important points in the paint. At the 9:47 mark, Kweti made a free throw to give Virginia State a 16-13 lead, and Miller followed with a tip-in shortly thereafter, helping the team maintain control for much of the first half. The first half ended with both teams tied at 30-30.

The second half began with a pivotal tip-in from Virginia State's Amesha Miller, giving her team a narrow 32-30 lead. Bluefield State fought back, with several of their key players stepping up defensively, including Tiyanna Rhodes, who made some important steals to disrupt Virginia State's offense. As the game continued, Virginia State's Tiyanna James delivered a significant 3-pointer, pushing the lead to 38-34.

This was followed by a fast-break layup from Tanayja London, which extended Virginia State's advantage to 40-34. Nevertheless, Bluefield State showed resilience and determination to come back. Caiyiah Smith was instrumental for her team, scoring vital points, and her layup brought the score to 41-40 in the closing moments of the game. With the pressure mounting and only 4 seconds left on the clock, Virginia State's Anii Harris showcased her clutch performance by sinking a jumper, putting her team ahead 43-40.

Virginia State with quick points from Anii Harris and Tiyanna James quickly contributing baskets and maintaining a solid lead. Harris was on fire, scoring with layups and free throws, pushing the score to 47-40 at one point and extending their advantage. Bluefield State did not back down, responding with a fast-break layup and converting key free throws that allowed them to pull closer at 47-55.

Virginia State, however, continued to hold their ground, with James hitting a vital 3-pointer to increase their lead to 54-44, followed by more free throws from Miller and Harris. In the final minutes, both teams struggled with turnovers and missed opportunities. However, Virginia State's consistent free-throw shooting from Harris helped to secure their victory. Despite a couple of late 3-pointers from Angel Walker for Bluefield State, the game concluded with Virginia State coming out on top, finishing with a score of 66-61.


The Women's basketball team will play the Vikings of Elizabeth City State University on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 2 pm.