Virginia State University surged in the second half to defeat Johnson C. Smith University 75-68 in an exciting back-and-forth battle Saturday.

The game featured a standout performance from Virginia State’s Clint Wright Jr., who scored 14 of his 18 points in the second half. Despite a balanced team effort from Johnson C. Smith, including strong performances from Ashton Sherrell and Javon Anderson, Virginia State’s shooting and bench depth proved to be the deciding factors.

  

The first half was tight, with both teams struggling to find their offensive rhythm. Johnson C. Smith shot 48.1% from the field (13-of-27), including an impressive 54.5% from 3-point range (6-of-11). Sherrell and Anderson combined for 20 points, keeping the Golden Bulls in front.

Virginia State wasn’t far behind, shooting 40% (12-of-30) in the first half. However, they stayed within reach thanks to solid free throw shooting (75%, 6-of-8) and Wright’s 14 points, including four 3-pointers.

At the break, Virginia State trailed 33-28. After halftime, Virginia State turned up the heat. They out-scored Johnson C. Smith 47-35 in the second half, thanks to a jump in shooting efficiency. The Trojans shot 55.6% from the field (15-of-27) and 90% from the free throw line (9-of-10), with Wright contributing 14 points, including a perfect 2-of-2 from the charity stripe.

Meanwhile, Johnson C. Smith struggled, shooting 43.5% (10-of-23) in the second half and making just 1-of-4 from beyond the arc (25%). Despite a late-game push from Sherrell and Anderson, Virginia State’s depth and free throw accuracy proved too much to overcome.

Virginia State capitalized on second-chance opportunities and sealed the win by sinking key free throws down the stretch.

Wright’s strong performance and bench contributions from players like Bynum and Jefferson helped the Trojans pull away for the 75-68 victory.

With the win, Virginia State (now 10-5) continues to show resilience and depth.