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Virginia State and Fayetteville State excelled in the CIAA Tournament, advancing to the semifinals with impressive victories.

Excitement filled the air on February 26, 2025, as the CIAA Basketball Tournament showcased thrilling matchups. Top-seeded Virginia State advanced to the semifinals with a hard-fought 67-59 victory over Lincoln (PA). The Trojans will now face the winner of the Livingstone vs. Bowie State game on February 28.

Defending champions Fayetteville State demonstrated their dominance by defeating Bluefield State 72-54. The Broncos established an early lead and never looked back, highlighted by a powerful 23-point third quarter. Fayetteville State will also move on to the semifinals.

In a nail-biting contest, Johnson C. Smith pulled away in the second half to secure their spot against Bluefield State in the next round. Meanwhile, Lincoln (PA) started strong and maintained their lead to face Claflin in the quarterfinals on February 27.

Virginia State held off a late surge from Bowie State, sealing a 78-72 victory with perfect free-throw shooting in the final moments. Elijah Davis from Bowie State led all scorers with 25 points, while Jacob Cooper topped the Trojans with 15 points. Fayetteville State edged Virginia Union 69-66 in a tense finish, with crucial missed free throws costing Virginia Union the game.

The tournament continues at CFG Bank Arena in Baltimore, MD, with championship games set for March 1.

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