FAYETTEVILLE, NC -- In a closely fought game, Elizabeth City State emerged victorious over Fayetteville State with a final score of 52-49. This win brings Elizabeth City State's record to 4-6 overall and 1-1 in the CIAA. For Fayetteville State, this was their first conference game of the season, making them 5-5 overall and 0-1 in the conference.
Kayiona Willis was a standout player for Elizabeth City State, scoring 13 points. Willis also contributed 2 rebounds and 1 steal.
The game started evenly, with both teams tied at 5-5 early on. Fayetteville State then went on a 6-0 run to take an 11-5 lead, but Elizabeth City State managed to close the gap, ending the first quarter down by just two points, 12-10.
In the second quarter, Elizabeth City State took a brief lead at 15-14, but Fayetteville State responded with a 5-0 run, highlighted by a three-pointer from Talia Trotter, to regain the lead at 19-15. The Vikings fought back and went into halftime with a 24-21 lead.
The third quarter saw both teams exchanging leads. Elizabeth City State extended their lead to 25-21, but Fayetteville State answered with a 5-0 run to take a 26-25 lead. The Vikings then regained control, ending the third quarter ahead 35-33.
In the final quarter, Elizabeth City State managed to hold off Fayetteville State's efforts to close the gap, securing a 52-49 victory. Despite Fayetteville State's strong defense, which forced 28 turnovers, Elizabeth City State's resilience and key plays, particularly from Kayiona Willis, were enough to secure the win.
Fayetteville State's defense was formidable, holding the Vikings to 31.5% shooting from the field and forcing 28 turnovers. The Broncos shared the ball well, with assists on 61% of their made field goals, and their bench contributed 16 points. Fayetteville State also recorded eight blocks as a team, with Talia Trotter leading the Broncos with 13 points and Morgan Graham adding 10 points, eight rebounds, three steals, and six blocks.
The Broncos will return to their home court on Thursday, December 19th, to host Virginia State at 5:30 PM. Admission is free.
