HBCU basketball followers witnessed a story of two halves as Norfolk State stormed again from an early deficit to overpower South Carolina State 83-37 in a dominant MEAC victory at Joseph G. Echols Memorial Corridor. The Spartans, one of many prime HBCU packages within the convention, turned a sluggish first quarter into an announcement win.
South Carolina State shocked the house crowd early, racing out to a 17-4 lead behind environment friendly taking pictures and aggressive protection. Norfolk State struggled to search out its rhythm, taking pictures simply 9.1% within the opening quarter. Nevertheless, the momentum shortly shifted because the Spartans leaned on their defensive id and depth to suffocate their HBCU rival.
Norfolk State erupted within the second quarter, outscoring SCSU 34-6 to take a commanding lead into halftime. Kierra Wheeler led the cost with a near-perfect efficiency, posting 19 factors, 16 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Her dominant presence within the paint set the tone for the Spartans, whereas Da’Brya Clark (15 factors) and Diamond Johnson (12 factors) supplied extra offensive firepower.
The second half was a showcase of Norfolk State’s defensive prowess, as they held South Carolina State to only 14 factors throughout the ultimate two quarters. The Spartans’ relentless stress pressured turnover after turnover, permitting them to attain in transition and bury their opponent.
With the win, Norfolk State strengthened its place as one of many premier HBCU groups within the MEAC. The Spartans’ capacity to bounce again from an early deficit and utterly management the sport after the primary quarter was a testomony to their championship pedigree. As they proceed their convention schedule, this efficiency serves as a reminder that Norfolk State is a drive to be reckoned with in HBCU basketball.
