WBB Recap | Johnson C. Smith 60, Elizabeth City State 51

The Elizabeth City State women's basketball team showed strong efficiency on the offensive end, particularly in the second half, but couldn't overcome an early deficit in a 60–51 loss to Johnson C. Smith on Wednesday evening at Brayboy Gymnasium.

The Vikings struggled to find rhythm in the opening half, managing just 21 points as Johnson C. Smith built an 32–21 advantage behind early three-point shooting and trips to the free-throw line. ECSU regrouped after halftime, erupting for 19 points in the third quarter while shooting 70 percent from the floor to cut into the deficit.

Despite the surge, the Golden Bulls answered in the fourth quarter by capitalizing at the foul line and on the glass to maintain control. Johnson C. Smith finished the game with 29 free-throw attempts and a 39–22 rebounding edge, including 11 second-chance points.

Laniya Scales led Elizabeth City State with 13 points on an efficient 5-of-8 shooting night. Kailyn Young added 10 points and three assists, while Jada Clark chipped in nine points and four steals. The Vikings shot an impressive 48.8 percent from the field and 40 percent from three, but were limited by rebounding and free-throw opportunities.

Johnson C. Smith was paced by La'Niya Simes and Salote Franklin, who each scored 14 points. Franklin also pulled down eight rebounds, while Simes added five steals to anchor the Golden Bulls defensively.

Elizabeth City State moves to 3–10 overall and 0–4 in CIAA play. The Vikings face a quick turnaround, heading to Winston-Salem State on January 10th.