BALTIMORE, MD — February 24, 2026 — Bluefield State (15–11) delivered one of the most dominant opening-round performances of the 2026 CIAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, racing past Shaw (8–17) in an 82–56 victory at CFG Bank Arena. Behind a commanding interior showing from Food Lion Player of the Game Azahreya Drayton-Gill, the Big Blue controlled the game from the opening tip and advanced to face #1 Southern Division seed Winston-Salem State on Wednesday, February 25 at 2:20 PM.

Bluefield State set the tone immediately, exploding to a 25–8 first-quarter lead with sharp ball movement, physical rebounding, and disruptive defensive pressure. Drayton-Gill was unstoppable around the rim, finishing with 21 points and 12 rebounds while converting tough second-chance opportunities and anchoring Bluefield’s presence on both ends. The Big Blue’s early defensive intensity forced turnovers and limited Shaw to just two field goals in the opening frame, a deficit the Bears struggled to recover from.

The momentum continued in the second quarter as Bluefield State extended its margin to 42–16 at halftime. Shaw generated looks from the perimeter but couldn’t string together consistent offense, while the Big Blue showcased a balanced attack featuring contributions from multiple positions. Jasmine Jenkins added 13 points on efficient shooting, stretching Shaw’s defense with timely threes and midrange jumpers. Jayla Sample added another 13 and controlled the boards with nine rebounds, further limiting Shaw’s second-chance opportunities.

Shaw’s offense showed signs of life in the third period behind standout guard D’Ayzha Atkinson, who powered the Bears with an impressive 28-point performance. Atkinson repeatedly attacked the paint, earning trips to the free-throw line and giving Shaw a steady source of scoring. Mikyah Finley added 16 points in support, and Shaw’s bench provided energy to narrow the margin slightly. Still, Bluefield State’s depth and tempo controlled the game’s rhythm, preventing any sustained comeback attempt.

The Big Blue responded to Shaw’s push with strong fourth-quarter execution, highlighted by decisive transition play and continued dominance on the glass. Drayton-Gill remained a force inside, Sample and Jenkins continued to pressure the ball, and Bluefield’s reserve unit delivered valuable minutes that maintained the large advantage. Bluefield State generated 43 points off turnovers and won the rebounding battle 41–34, showcasing a complete team performance that overwhelmed the Bears over four quarters.

Shaw’s late scoring burst trimmed the margin in the closing minutes, but the deficit from the opening half proved too large to overcome. Bluefield State’s combination of scoring balance, defensive pressure, and interior strength carried it wire to wire, affirming their position as a dangerous tournament contender.

For full schedules, scores, and tournament coverage, visit ciaatournament.org.