Lincoln University, PA – January 25, 2025 – The Lincoln University (PA) women's basketball team battled fiercely but fell to Virginia State University, 71-66. Despite a strong second-half effort, the Lions' inefficient shooting proved costly in their hard-fought loss to the Trojans. The Lions now hold a 9-10 overall record and are 5-4 in CIAA play.

Senior Ciani Montgomery (Philadelphia, Pa./West Catholic Prep) led all scorers with 25 points, shooting 11-of-18 from the field, including 3 three-pointers. She also contributed 5 rebounds and 2 steals, showcasing her leadership on the court. Senior Anyssa Fields (Long Branch, N.J./Long Branch) delivered a solid performance with 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 block, demonstrating her impact on both ends of the floor. Junior Kaziah Akinniyi (Baltimore, Md./Poly) added 11 points, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals, making key defensive plays on back-to-back possessions in the first quarter.

The Lions trailed by just five points at halftime with the score at 35-30 in favor of Virginia State. The second half was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading scores. In the final two minutes, the game became a nail-biter, but Virginia State sealed the victory at the free-throw line, ultimately securing the five-point win.

The Lions will look to bounce back in their next matchup against Bluefield State University on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Bluefield, WV.