A Tale of Perseverance: Highlights from the Emotional CIAA Championship


Baltimore, MD – The stage was set for an exhilarating showdown on Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the women's basketball teams battled it out for glory in the 2024-2025 CIAA Basketball Tournament Championship at 1 PM. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as fans filled the arena, ready for fierce competition.

Fayetteville State quickly seized control, with Keayna McLaughlin delivering an electrifying layup to kick off the game and put her team ahead 4-0. Both teams displayed relentless defensive tenacity from the start, creating a high-stakes environment filled with rebounds, steals, and intense action. Talia Trotter emerged as a defensive stalwart for Fayetteville, showcasing her skills with key rebounds and blocks that stifled Virginia State's scoring efforts.

Despite the pressure, Virginia State's Mihjae Hayes and Carmen Kweti remained undeterred, pushing hard to make their mark. Yet, Fayetteville's defense continued to frustrate their attempts. Trotter and Ashara Hayes stepped up for Fayetteville, delivering crucial points that kept their momentum strong. Virginia State tried to rally back with a late layup from Anii Harris, but Fayetteville held firm, maintaining their lead.

As the first half progressed, Daziyahna Wilson and Keayna McLaughlin combined to drain pivotal 3-pointers, extending Fayetteville's advantage. Talia Trotter shone brighter and brighter, racking up rebounds and assists that orchestrated the game's flow. By halftime, the excitement reached a fever pitch, with Fayetteville State leading 32-17, leaving fans eager for the second half.

The second half ignited with Fayetteville State pushing ahead, fueled by the dynamic duo of McLaughlin and Trotter. They executed strategic free throws and electrifying layups, marking their dominance on the court. Virginia State, however, demonstrated resilience. Kendahl Spearman and Amesha Miller rallied with impressive free throws and layups, striving to close the gap but finding it to be a persistent hurdle.

The intensity ramped up as both teams showcased their defensive prowess. Mihjae Hayes and Carmen Kweti fought valiantly for Virginia State, making every shot count, but Fayetteville's Daziyahna Wilson and Ashara Hayes answered back with crucial points during critical moments, bolstering their team's lead.

In a defining fast break, Fayetteville's Kanyah O'Neal raced down the court to execute a stunning layup that pushed the lead to 53-39. Virginia State's Hayes and Kweti battled hard, but shots simply wouldn't fall when they needed them most. As the game neared its conclusion, the tension reached a boiling point, with Ashara Hayes and Nyah Wilkins making significant contributions to Fayetteville.

Despite late efforts from Virginia State, including points from Amesha Miller and Anii Harris, they couldn't close the gap. Ultimately, Fayetteville State clinched the championship with a final score of 64-56, securing their victory and etching their name in the history of the tournament. The thrilling contest showcased incredible talent, determination, and passion from both teams, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed it.