FAYETTEVILLE, NC –
Ezekiel Cannedy delivered the knockout blow with a clutch three-pointer in the final minute, sealing Fayetteville State's 75-62 victory over Virginia Union on Thursday night at Capel Arena. The Broncos (7-6, 2-2 CIAA) used a dominant second half and standout performances from their leaders to hand the Panthers (11-2, 3-1 CIAA) just their second loss of the season.
Larry Howell powered Fayetteville State with a game-high 23 points and eight rebounds, showcasing his ability to finish inside and convert at the free-throw line. Terrell Williams filled the stat sheet with 13 points, six rebounds, seven assists, and two steals, while Cannedy came off the bench to score 12 points, including the dagger three that put the game out of reach.
The Broncos were relentless on the defensive end, swatting nine shots as a team. Romeo Aquino anchored the paint with four blocks and seven rebounds, helping Fayetteville State hold Virginia Union to just 31.9 percent shooting from the field. The Broncos also dominated the glass, pulling down 10 offensive rebounds that led to 10 second-chance points.
After a back-and-forth first half, Fayetteville State entered the break with a slim 31-29 lead. Virginia Union briefly surged ahead early in the second half, but the Broncos responded with a decisive 7-0 run capped by a Howell layup to reclaim control. From there, Fayetteville State's bench provided a spark, contributing 28 points as the Broncos pulled away for the win.
Virginia Union was led by Bobby Gardner, who scored 16 points and grabbed six rebounds, while Tahj Harding added 17 points off the bench. Despite their efforts, the Panthers struggled from beyond the arc, hitting just three of 13 attempts.
Fayetteville State shot an impressive 45.5 percent from the floor and 44.4 percent from three-point range, while converting 81.8 percent of its free throws. The Broncos also shared the ball effectively, recording assists on 75 percent of their made baskets.
Next up, Fayetteville State hosts Bowie State on Saturday, January 10 at 3:30 PM, with the game broadcast live on HBCU Go TV.
