VIRGINIA UNION PANTHERS TOP ECSU VIKINGS 84-59 :: Panthers Capture CIAA Eastern Division Championship on Senior Night in Richmond

Feb. 22, 2008

RICHMOND, VA- The Virginia Union Panthers captured the 2008 CIAA Eastern Division with a 84-59 victory over Elizabeth City State Thursday evening at Barco-Stevens Hall.

The loss gives ECSU back-to-back losses for the first time this season as the Vikings close out the regular season at 20-6 overall and 13-5 in CIAA play.

After trailing 33-27 at the break the Panthers (20-6, CIAA 14-4) pulled away in the second half, out-scoring the Vikings 57-26. The 25-point defeat is the largest deficit of the Vikings' six losses this season.

Braxton Byerson led the Panthers with a game high 22 points while Anthony Hilliard topped ECSU with 12 points.

The Vikings have earned a first round bye for the 2008 CIAA Tournament and will take the court again on Thursday, February 28th. For more information on ECSU Athletics, visit www.ecsuvikings.com.