BALTIMORE, MD — February 27, 2026 — Winston-Salem State (25–3,) wasted no time asserting its dominance on Thursday afternoon, unleashing one of its most complete defensive efforts of the season in a commanding 67–32 semifinal victory over Claflin (17–9) at CFG Bank Arena. The Rams were led by an outstanding performance from Food Lion Player of the Game Nevaeh Farmer, who delivered 19 points, five rebounds, four assists, and three steals while setting the tone from the opening possession. With the win, WSSU advances to the CIAA Women’s Basketball Championship Game on Saturday, February 27 at 1:00 PM, awaiting the winner of the Bowie State–Fayetteville State semifinal later this evening.

From the opening tip, Winston-Salem State’s pressure defense suffocated Claflin. Farmer scored the first bucket of the game on a driving layup, and WSSU never looked back. The Rams sprinted out to a 20–5 first-quarter lead, holding the Panthers without a field goal for long stretches and forcing an avalanche of early turnovers. Claflin struggled to find rhythm, attempting only six shots in the opening period and converting just one.

Meanwhile, Winston-Salem State’s rebounding advantage and transition attack added fuel to its dominant start. Maia Charles imposed her will in the paint, recording a powerful 12-point, 13-rebound double-double while anchoring the defensive interior. Her early tip-ins and second-chance conversions widened the gap to 37–14 by halftime, giving the Rams complete command of the contest.

The Rams’ supporting cast delivered across the board. Breonna Roaf added seven points and three assists, consistently pushing the pace and creating open looks. Jakaiya Mack chipped in eight points and eight rebounds, balancing WSSU’s interior presence with physical play on both ends. Amari Baldwin and TaNiya Simms supplied efficient bench production, scoring seven and two points respectively while extending WSSU’s energy and defensive standard.

Claflin, fresh off a quarterfinal victory the day before, struggled to respond to WSSU’s relentless pressure. Ariel Lucas hit three triples and scored a team-high nine points, while Ashari Lewis added seven. But the Panthers were unable to break free from Winston-Salem State’s defensive blanket, finishing just 11-of-37 (29.7%) from the field and committing 26 turnovers, many of which led directly to WSSU points.

Winston-Salem State’s defensive numbers told the story:

• 38 points in the paint
• 20 points off turnovers
• 44 total rebounds
• Only 32 points allowed, their fewest this season

Despite Claflin’s late push in the fourth quarter, the Rams maintained full control to close out the win. Farmer, fittingly, delivered a final burst of scoring and playmaking that showcased her leadership and efficiency on the semifinal stage.

With the victory, Winston-Salem State advances to its first championship appearance since re-establishing itself as one of the CIAA’s elite teams. The Rams now await their title-game opponent, to be determined tonight when Bowie State and Fayetteville State face off for the final championship berth.

For updated tournament coverage, schedules, and championship information, visit CIAATournament.org.