BALTIMORE, MD – The Lincoln University (PA) women's basketball team secured a gritty 54-49 victory over Shaw University in the opening round of the CIAA Tournament at CFG Bank Arena, punching their ticket to the quarterfinals.

The Lions  set the tone early with stifling defense, holding the Bears to just four first-quarter points. Senior leader Anyssa Fields (Long Branch, N.J./Long Branch) spearheaded the offense, finishing with a game-high 18 points and nine rebounds, showcasing her dominance on both ends of the court.

Riley Holliday (Baltimore, MD/) provided a huge spark off the bench, delivering 14 points on an efficient 7-for-10 shooting. Kaziah Akinniyi (Baltimore, Md./Poly) contributed six points and three steals, while Anyia Gibson (Edgewood, MD/) anchored the paint with seven rebounds and three blocks.

Despite a late push from Shaw, Lincoln's defense held strong, forcing 18 turnovers and limiting the Bears to just 3-of-24 shooting from beyond the arc.

With the win, the Lions advance to face Virginia State University on Wednesday, February 26.