FAYETTEVILLE, NC -- In their conference opener, the Fayetteville State men's basketball team secured a 75-65 victory over the Elizabeth City State Vikings at home on Tuesday. This win improved the Broncos' record to 7-3 overall and 1-0 in the conference, while the Vikings' record fell to 6-4 overall and 0-2 in the conference.
Caleb Simmons was the standout player for Fayetteville State, leading the team with 24 points, eight rebounds, and two steals. He was supported by Tairell Fletcher, who added 15 points and seven assists, and Ezekiel Cannedy, who contributed 11 points. The Broncos excelled in offensive rebounding, with Javon Floyd grabbing three offensive boards, helping the team to 17 overall and resulting in 10 second-chance points.
Elizabeth City State's key players included Xavier Tubbs-Matthews, who scored 23. Dericko Williams also made significant contributions with 19 points, nine rebounds, one block, and two steals.
The game saw Fayetteville State take control late in the first half. After trailing 35-34, the Broncos went on an 8-0 run, capped by a three-pointer from Cannedy, to take a 42-35 lead into halftime. Fayetteville State dominated the paint in the first half, scoring 24 of their 42 points close to the basket.
In the second half, Fayetteville State maintained their lead and extended it with a 10-0 run, finished by a layup from Simmons, to make it 54-42 with 11:22 remaining. Although the Vikings managed to narrow the margin, the Broncos held on for a comfortable 75-65 win. Fayetteville State capitalized on eight Elizabeth City State turnovers in the second half, converting them into nine points.
The Broncos' defense was effective throughout the game, holding the Vikings to 38.9 percent shooting from the field and forcing 14 turnovers. Fayetteville State never trailed in the second half, showcasing their dominance and securing a strong start to their conference play.
Coach Luke D'Alessio commented on Elizabeth City State's multi-level scoring, saying, "It was a tough one. We changed the way we handled the ball screen action, but we needed to get backside help. As long as the help is there when the big man dives, we're ok."
Myles Pierre, who contributed 10 points, also shared insights on his off-season preparation, stating, "I stayed in the gym. It's simple but it works. I kept working on my shots, stayed with my trainers, and kept believing in myself all summer."
Fayetteville State will host Virginia State on Thursday, December 19th at 7:30 PM for another free community game.
