image via Lamumba Howard
Courtesy of Virginia Union Athletics
55
FC
63
Winner VU
| Team | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | F |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC | 15 | 2 | 22 | 16 | 55 |
| VU | 20 | 11 | 14 | 18 | 63 |
Virginia Union University earned its first victory of the 2025–26 season on Wednesday evening, defeating Ferrum College 63–55 inside Barco-Stevens Hall.
The Panthers were led by Bruni Martinez, who turned in a dominant performance with 26 points on 12-of-17 shooting, nine rebounds, three steals, and two blocks. Martinez controlled the paint throughout the night and scored at key moments to halt Ferrum’s momentum.
VUU opened the game strong, taking a 20–15 lead after the first quarter. The Panthers’ defense took over in the second period, holding Ferrum to just two points while forcing six turnovers. That shutdown stretch allowed Union to take a 31–17 advantage into halftime.
Ferrum responded after the break, outscoring the Panthers 22–14 in the third quarter behind improved shooting and offensive rebounding. However, VUU steadied itself in the fourth, getting timely baskets from Martinez and Maya Robinson, who finished with 11 points and a pair of steals.
Virginia Union’s defensive pressure proved to be the difference, forcing 21 turnovers that led to 25 points on the other end. VUU also finished with 14 steals and seven blocks, controlling the interior and keeping Ferrum off balance.
Karimah Nix added five points and five rebounds, while Hailey Blackwell chipped in four points, four assists, and two steals in 33 minutes of steady backcourt play.
Despite Ferrum’s late push, VUU held firm down the stretch to secure the eight-point win and even its record at 1–1.
Afterward, Head Coach Alico Dunk emphasized the importance of growth early in the season.
“We didn’t play our best basketball tonight, but we’re grateful to have come away with our first win of the season,” Dunk said. “We have to be more consistent and execute on both ends of the floor.”
Virginia Union returns to action on Saturday, November 22, when the Panthers travel to Shepherd University.
