CHARLOTTE, NC --In a dominant performance, the Fayetteville State women's basketball team, boasting a record of 14-7 overall and 9-3 in the CIAA, triumphed over the Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls, who now stand at 6-15 overall and 3-10 in the CIAA, with a final score of 84-51 on Thursday.

Talia Trotter was the standout player for the Broncos, scoring 23 points, along with four assists and three steals. Ashara Hayes contributed significantly with 14 points, seven rebounds, and six assists, while Morgan Graham added 11 points, seven rebounds, and two steals. The Broncos excelled in ball handling, recording 18 assists and only nine turnovers, with Hayes leading the team in assists.

Fayetteville State's defense was formidable, forcing 16 turnovers from Johnson C. Smith and converting those into 22 points. Trotter's three steals were a highlight of the defensive effort.

The game began with Fayetteville State quickly establishing dominance, going on a 12-0 run early in the first quarter to lead 15-2. By the end of the first quarter, they were ahead 19-5, with a significant portion of their points coming from inside the paint.

In the second quarter, the Broncos continued to build on their lead, going on a 5-0 run to extend their advantage to 29-12. Despite some resistance from the Golden Bulls, Fayetteville State maintained a strong lead, entering halftime with a 45-30 score, largely due to their effective scoring in the paint.

After halftime, the Broncos continued to control the game, leading 57-45 at the end of the third quarter. They further extended their lead in the fourth quarter, finishing the game with an 11-0 run to secure the 84-51 victory. Fayetteville State's dominance in the paint was evident, as they scored 18 of their 27 fourth-quarter points from close range.

For Johnson C. Smith, Kyshonna Brown led the team with 16 points, shooting 5-12 from the field, including 2-8 from three-point range, and 4-7 from the free-throw line. She also contributed three rebounds, three assists, and one steal. Ashlei Kirven added 10 points, shooting 3-4 from the field and 4-6 from the free-throw line, along with four rebounds and five personal fouls.

Overall, Fayetteville State's efficient shooting, strong defense, and effective ball movement were key factors in their decisive win over Johnson C. Smith.

Next up, the Broncos will host Winston-Salem State on Thursday, February 13th in Capel Arena at 5:30 PM. Follow the action at fsubroncos.com/gameday.