WILSON, N.C. --  Elizabeth City State battled hard on the road but came up just short in a 68–66 loss to Barton on December 6 at Wilson Gymnasium. After falling behind 41–27 at halftime, the Vikings mounted an impressive second-half surge, shooting over 51 percent from the field and tightening the game possession by possession.

Trevor Smith was electric offensively, pouring in a game-high 26 points on 10-of-20 shooting while adding five rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Braylon Wheeler provided strong support in the backcourt with 14 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and four steals as ECSU pushed the pace and scored 15 fast-break points. Kenneth Miller and Joseph Thompson added steady interior production, while Jawan Browder gave the Vikings a spark off the bench with five quick points.

Despite ECSU's improved efficiency, Barton's depth proved decisive. The Bulldogs received 39 points from their bench alone, led by Christian Taylor's 18 points and Jaylen Faber's 14. Barton also capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 17 of 24 attempts compared to ECSU's nine makes.

The Vikings fought back to make it a one-possession game late but couldn't overcome the early deficit. Still, ECSU showed resilience in the second half, showing signs of life after outscoring Barton 39–27. 

Up Next for ECSU:
The Vikings return home for a matchup against the 7-0 Shaw Bears on Tuesday, Dec. 9th.