WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- Elizabeth City State ran into a strong Winston-Salem State squad and fell 67–38 Saturday afternoon at the C.E. Gaines Center.
Winston-Salem State (13-1,4-0 CIAA) entered the week receiving votes just outside the top 25 in the latest WBCA NCAA Division II Coaches' Poll. The Rams set the tone early, opening the game on a 22–11 first quarter and maintaining control throughout. Winston-Salem used its pressure defense to force turnovers and convert easy scoring opportunities, building a 39–21 halftime advantage.
ECSU (3-11, 0-5 CIAA) showed flashes in the third quarter, shooting 50 percent from the floor and knocking down two three-pointers, but Winston-Salem quickly responded to keep the margin comfortable. The Rams continued to control the glass and tempo in the fourth quarter to close out the win.
Kailyn Young led the Vikings with 11 points, while Laniya Scales and Tionna Pettus added eight points apiece. ECSU struggled offensively, shooting 30.6 percent from the field and 20 percent from three, while committing 30 turnovers.
Winston-Salem State was powered by Maia Charles, who posted a dominant 23-point, 12-rebound performance with four blocks and five steals. The Rams finished with a 43–24 rebounding advantage and scored 36 points off turnovers.
ECSU takes a break from conference play, and heads to Carolina University tomorrow for a 2 p.m. tipoff.