ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. – Elizabeth City State battled throughout but fell to Virginia State, 71–59, Saturday afternoon in CIAA men's basketball action at the R. L. Vaughan Center.

The Vikings kept the contest within reach early, trailing 32–24 at the break, and showed resilience in the second half, cutting into the deficit with improved offensive execution. Despite the push, Virginia State maintained control behind efficient shooting and strong bench production.

Trevor Smith led ECSU with 12 points, knocking down three three-pointers, while Jaquantae Harris added 11 points, three assists, and four steals. Terence Thorbs contributed 10 points and a team-high seven rebounds, and Kenneth Miller finished with eight points on 3-of-4 shooting.

Elizabeth City State outscored Virginia State in points off turnovers, 21–16, and matched the Trojans on the glass with 29 rebounds. However, Virginia State shot 55.6 percent from the field and received 38 points from its bench, which proved to be the difference.

Elizabeth City State falls to 2–14 overall and 1–9 in CIAA play, while Virginia State improves to 12–9 overall and 5–4 in conference action.