PETERSBURG, VA -- In a non-conference match-up, the Fayetteville State men's basketball team fell to the Virginia State Trojans with a final score of 94-82 on the road Saturday in the Multipurpose Center.
Caleb Simmons reached a significant milestone by scoring his 1000th career point during the game. Despite his impressive performance, the Broncos (5-2) couldn't secure the win. Simmons and Tairell Fletcher both scored 21 points, leading the team. Simmons also contributed seven rebounds and four steals, while Fletcher added three assists. Myles Pierre chipped in with 12 points, adding depth to the team's scoring efforts.
Virginia State's leading scorer, Jacob Cooper, played a pivotal role in their victory, scoring 20 points, including an impressive 14-16 from the free-throw line. Despite Fayetteville State's strong start, they struggled to keep up with Virginia State's pace, trailing 52-39 at halftime.
After the break, Virginia State extended their lead to 75-51. Fayetteville State attempted a comeback with a 7-0 run, capped by a layup from Fletcher, narrowing the gap to 75-58 with 8:37 remaining. However, Virginia State managed to maintain their lead and secure the win, bringing their record to 3-3 for the season.
Fayetteville State's defense forced 13 turnovers, converting them into 14 points. They also dominated the offensive glass, grabbing 12 offensive rebounds and turning them into 11 second-chance points. Despite these efforts, Virginia State's consistent scoring and strong free-throw shooting proved too much for the Broncos to overcome.
The men will play Virginia Union in a non-conference match-up at home in Capel Arena on Saturday, December 7th at 4:00 PM.