Entertainment

VSU Men, Fayetteville Women Win CIAA Titles In Baltimore

Virginia State’s men and Fayetteville State’s women captured the CIAA championship titles in Baltimore, with standout performances leading both teams to victory. The tournament took a somber turn as news of singer Angie Stone’s tragic passing was announced during halftime.

#CIAA #CIAAChampionship #HBCUBasketball #VSUTrojans #FSUBroncos #CollegeHoops #AngieStone #CIAA2025

By Randy Singleton
Community Affairs Correspondent
New Journal and Guide

BALTIMORE, MD

The Lady Broncos of Fayetteville State University defeated the Virginia State Lady Trojans 64-56 in the championship game March 1 to capture their second-consecutive CIAA title at the CFG Arena in Baltimore. FSU broke open a close game in the second half, with top scorers Keayna McLaughlin and Talia Trotter each contributing 15 points. FSU’s Nyah Wilkins was named the championship game’s and tournament’s MVP.

In the men’s final, Virginia State held off Bluefield State 71-64 to win the men’s CIAA championship in a contest which had 9 lead changes. VSU’s Jacob Cooper scored 16 points and Jared White chipped in 11 points.

Genesis Morris of Claflin University was crowned Miss CIAA 2025 and Derrion Campbell of Claflin University was crowned Mr. CIAA.

During the halftime of the women’s championship game, CIAA Chaplin Pastor Jerome Barber announced that RB/Neo-Soul Singer Angie Stone who was scheduled to perform at halftime of the men’s championship game had been tragically killed in an automobile accident. Pastor Barber called for a moment of silence and lifted her name in prayer before the hushed and saddened arena of CIAA fans.

Renee Neufville of the 90s group Zhane, DJ Spinderella of Salt’N-Peppa, and Fast Life Yungstaz performed during the championship games on Saturday.