RICHMOND, Va. – Elizabeth City State came up just short in a hard-fought road battle, falling 69–63 to Virginia Union Thursday night in CIAA men's basketball action at Barco-Stevens Hall.

The Vikings delivered one of their most efficient offensive performances of the season, shooting 53.7 percent from the field and knocking down 11 three-pointers. ECSU led 35–37 at halftime and traded momentum throughout the second half in a tightly contested game that featured eight ties and six lead changes.

Jaquantae Harris led the Vikings with 16 points, connecting on 4-of-6 from beyond the arc, while Trevor Smith added 14 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists on a perfect 4-for-4 effort from three-point range. Donovan Flamer chipped in nine points, and Anthony Djami-Tchoula provided a spark off the bench with nine points in just 13 minutes.

Despite the strong shooting night, Virginia Union capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 17-of-19 attempts, including a perfect 7-for-7 in the second half. The Panthers also held a 30–20 advantage on the glass and scored nine second-chance points, which proved pivotal down the stretch.

Elizabeth City State falls to 2–15 overall and 1–10 in CIAA play, while Virginia Union improves to 16–3 overall and 8–2 in conference action.