Elizabeth City, NC - The Elizabeth City State University women's basketball team secured a nail-biting victory against Winston-Salem State, 58-56, in a dramatic finish at the R.L. Vaughan Center. The Vikings were lifted by a clutch putback from Vannessa Schwarzman in the final seconds to seal the win.

ECSU (5-7) bounced back after a tough 42-57 road loss to Claflin University before the winter break. Against the Rams, the Vikings were powered by Rashauna Grant's team-high 11 points and 6 rebounds, supported by Tiana Amos, Shakira Perry, and Jada Nowlin, who each contributed 9 points. Londen Coleman made her presence felt off the bench, leading the team with 7 rebounds.

The Vikings shot 36.1% from the field and connected on six 3-pointers, while narrowly losing the rebounding battle, 35-36. Defensively, ECSU's relentless pressure forced 21 turnovers, a key factor in the close contest.

As ECSU looks to build on this momentum, they turn their focus to continuing CIAA conference play against Livingstone College on Saturday, January 6th, at 5:30 PM. Fans can catch the game live on the CIAA Sports Network and WRVS 89.9.

#OnTheRise