Men’s Team Battles to MEAC Championship Victory

The Norfolk State men’s basketball team secured the MEAC Championship with a dramatic 66-65 victory over South Carolina State in a thrilling final at the Norfolk Scope Arena.

Christian Ings led the Spartans with 16 points, 14 of which came in the second half, while Brian Moore Jr. added 15 points, stepping up in crucial moments to guide the team to victory.

The first half saw a tight battle before South Carolina State, led by Wilson Dubinsky’s sharp three-point shooting, went on a 9-0 run to take a 34-25 halftime lead. However, the Spartans came out in the second half with an aggressive defensive approach that stifled the Bulldogs. Kuluel Mading, Tyrel Bladen, and Chris Fields provided a strong presence inside the paint, forcing South Carolina State into tough shots.

“In the second half, we changed to a tempo press and went to the zone,” said NSU head coach Robert Jones, who was named the Tournament Outstanding Coach. “We felt strongly that we could get back in it with our defense.”

As the game neared its conclusion, Ings and Moore Jr. took turns delivering key baskets and free throws, pushing Norfolk State to a 59-51 lead with 4:56 left. South Carolina State, however, fought back behind Dubinsky’s 24-point effort, closing the gap to 66-65 with 6.4 seconds remaining. With one last possession, the Bulldogs had a chance to win, but the Spartans’ defense held firm, blocking two shot attempts as time expired.

“I can’t say enough about the senior leadership today,” Jones added. “When we lost last year in the semifinals, it was tough. We told people we’d be back, and here we are. I’m so proud of this team.”

2025 MEAC Men’s Basketball All-Tournament Team

• Tournament Outstanding Player – Brian Moore Jr., Norfolk State
• Tournament Outstanding Coach – Robert Jones, Norfolk State
• Brian Moore Jr., Norfolk State
• Christian Ings, Norfolk State
• Wilson Dubinsky, South Carolina State
• Kameron Hobbs, Morgan State
• Will Thomas, Morgan State

Spartans Ready for March Madness

With both teams earning automatic bids to the NCAA Tournament, Norfolk State stands as a powerhouse in HBCU basketball. Fans eagerly await the Selection Show to see who the Spartans will face in the Big Dance.

Stay tuned for game schedules, matchups, and exclusive tournament coverage as Norfolk State aims to make history on the national stage!

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