BOWIE, MD — The Bowie State women's basketball team (17-7, 10-5 CIAA, 8-1 North) defeated Virginia State, 73-57, Wednesday evening inside A.C. Jordan Arena, moving into first place in the CIAA Northern Division.

The Bulldogs relied on relentless defense and transition offense to secure the victory, recording 15 steals and holding a 16-0 advantage in fastbreak points to create separation.

Bowie State set the tone early in the opening quarter. Kristin Sterling scored twice in the paint within the first minute to spark a 20-10 first-period lead. Afia Owusu-Mensah added three 3-pointers in the quarter, while the Bulldogs' defense totaled five steals and two blocks to disrupt the Trojans' rhythm.

The Bulldogs carried that momentum into the second quarter, taking a 33-24 lead into halftime. After Virginia State trimmed the deficit to four midway through the period, Sydney Anthony answered with a layup off a defensive rebound. Malaka Cobb capped the half with a buzzer-beating 3-pointer to give Bowie State a nine-point cushion at the break.

Bowie State pulled away in the third quarter, outscoring the Trojans 23-14. Cobb opened the period with a layup and later knocked down a 3-pointer to extend the lead. Owusu-Mensah connected on two more shots from beyond the arc, while Mia Smith added a key block to anchor the defense. The Bulldogs entered the final quarter in control.

In the fourth, Bowie State maintained its double-digit advantage. Chaniya Taylor converted a layup midway through the period to push the lead to 59-41. Virginia State attempted to rally behind free throws and inside scoring, but Anthony sealed the win at the line, converting four free throws in the final minute. Cobb added a late layup to secure the 73-57 decision.

Top Performers
Malaka Cobb

• 19 points
• 5 assists
• 4 steals

Afia Owusu-Mensah

• 16 points
• 5 3-pointers

Mayah Garner

• 10 points
• 8 rebounds
• 2 blocks

Sydney Anthony

• 9 points
• 4 steals

Kristin Sterling

• 6 rebounds
• 2 blocks
• 4 steals

Up Next
The Bulldogs return to action Saturday, Feb. 21, hosting the regular season finale against Lincoln (PA) for senior day / black out inside A.C. Jordan Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m.

For the latest news and updates on Bowie State Athletics and its 14 varsity sports, visit www.bsubulldogs.com