BALTIMORE, MD — February 24, 2026 — Virginia Union (17–8) leaned on its interior scoring, defensive poise, and a dominant outing from Food Lion Player of the Game Bruni Martinez to defeat Johnson C. Smith (7–18) 59–48 in the opening round of the CIAA Women's Basketball Tournament at CFG Bank Arena. The win moves the Lady Panthers into a marquee matchup with #2 Southern Division seed Fayetteville State on Thursday, February 26 at 6:00 PM.

Johnson C. Smith struck early, using physical play inside and second-chance scoring to edge ahead 14–11 after the first quarter. The Golden Bulls were carried by the relentless effort of Salote Franklin, who delivered a standout performance with 21 points and 15 rebounds, keeping her team competitive throughout a tightly contested first half. La'Niya Simes added eight points and eight boards as JCSU's post presence gave Virginia Union early challenges around the rim.

Virginia Union countered with defensive pressure and interior execution. Martinez anchored the attack with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks, repeatedly finding space in the lane and controlling the glass. The Panthers' ball movement improved during the second quarter, while their defense began to disrupt JCSU's rhythm. Still, the Golden Bulls' effort on the boards kept the margin close as Union carried a narrow 22–25 deficit into halftime.

The third quarter shifted the momentum entirely. Virginia Union surged with 20 points in the frame, highlighted by a burst from Martinez and the steady two-way play of Maya Robinson, who finished with 13 points, five rebounds, and seven assists. Robinson dictated the pace, attacked in transition, and created scoring chances off JCSU turnovers. Her connection with Martinez helped Union flip the scoreboard and establish its first multi-possession lead of the afternoon.

Defensively, the Panthers tightened their coverage, holding the Golden Bulls to 6-of-19 shooting in the third period and limiting clean looks from the perimeter. Virginia Union also began turning JCSU mistakes into points; the Panthers scored 20 points off 21 Johnson C. Smith turnovers, a key separator as the game progressed.

Johnson C. Smith fought to stay within reach, relying on Franklin's interior scoring and a timely late three from Kamryn Williamson. But Virginia Union matched every push, leaning on composed possessions and high-percentage looks. Martinez continued to control the paint, and Robinson's late-game poise allowed the Panthers to maintain their lead. The Panthers outscored JCSU 17–9 in the fourth quarter, closing out a complete second-half performance.

With interior strength and improved defensive efficiency, Virginia Union secured a well-earned postseason victory and now turns its attention to a highly anticipated matchup against Fayetteville State.

For tournament schedules, scores, and additional information, visit ciaatournament.org.