WSSU Rams Crowned New CIAA Women's Basketball Champions
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Posted By: Will Moss on March 01, 2026 BALTIMORE, Md. — The Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) Rams have made a definitive statement in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) — they are the new queens of women's basketball. In a commanding performance, the Rams overwhelmed the two-time defending champion Fayetteville State University Broncos by a score of 60–43 to capture the CIAA women's basketball championship. This remarkable first season under head coach Tierra Terry, a WSSU alumna, has been a defining moment in the program's history. The Rams' victory pushes their overall record to an impressive 26–3. Key Takeaway: WSSU's defense was the key to their dominance, as they held the Broncos to just 26.4% shooting (14-of-53) and forced 24 turnovers with their aggressive trapping defense.
From the opening tip, the Rams set the tone and never looked back. They jumped out to a 17–9 lead after the first quarter and extended it to a commanding 37–18 halftime advantage. Fayetteville State, known for its championship pedigree and experience, never managed to recover. "Our identity is defense, and we stuck to it," Terry said. "The days we stay consistent in what our identity is, we get great results." Standout performances came from the Rams' players, including Nevaeh Farmer, who scored 24 points on 8-of-17 shooting, including 5-of-8 from three-point range, while adding 5 steals. Makayla Waleed contributed 14 points, and Maia Charles chipped in 10 points and 7 rebounds. For Coach Terry, this championship holds deep personal significance. As a former WSSU player, she returned to her alma mater this season with the task of rebuilding a program that had finished just 7–20 the previous year. In a remarkable turnaround, she has blended new players with returning talent, instilling a mindset rooted in discipline and mental toughness. A New Standard in the CIAAThe Rams' focus and determination never wavered, even amid high expectations and outside noise. They leaned on each other, their coaching staff, and their shared belief that this season was about something bigger than just a trophy. "This wasn't me," Terry said. "All glory to God. I'm just so appreciative that this group of young women was the first to put that banner up." With the championship banner now ready to rise, the WSSU Rams have not only ended a drought but have also signaled the arrival of a new standard in the CIAA. This moment is a testament to the dedication, resilience, and talent of the Rams' players and coaching staff, and it is sure to inspire the entire HBCU community. HBCUConnect's Perspective: The WSSU Rams' remarkable championship victory is a source of immense pride for the HBCU community. This triumph showcases the incredible talent, coaching, and determination that exists within HBCU athletics programs. The Rams' inspiring journey, from a struggling team to CIAA champions, serves as a powerful example of the transformative impact HBCUs can have on the lives of their student-athletes. As the premier online community for HBCU alumni and supporters, HBCUConnect celebrates the Rams' achievement and believes it will inspire others to strive for greatness, both on and off the court.
Originally reported by HBCU Gameday. If you enjoyed this article, Join HBCU CONNECT today for similar content and opportunities via email! |
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Will Moss
Founder & CEO, HBCU CONNECT, LLC Hampton University class of 1995 Member Since June 1999 |
