ETTRICK, VA - Shaw University women's basketball came up just short Sunday afternoon, falling 67–66 to Virginia State in a tightly contested non-conference matchup at the Multipurpose Center.

The Bears (2–3) and the Trojans (4–2) went toe-to-toe all evening, with neither team leading by more than a few possessions. Shaw carried a 34–33 edge into halftime behind sharp three-point shooting, knocking down four triples in the second quarter to build momentum.

Arianna Lopez and D'Ayzha Atkinson each scored 14 points to lead Shaw, while Mikyah Finley added 17 on 6-of-9 shooting, including three makes from beyond the arc. Atkinson and Ashara Spruill each grabbed seven rebounds to help the Bears hold a 35–25 edge on the glass.

Turnovers, however, proved costly. Shaw committed 38 giveaways, allowing VSU to convert them into 32 points. The Trojans' defensive pressure swung the game in the second half as they outscored Shaw 34–32 over the final two quarters, edging ahead in the closing minutes.

Despite the setback, the Bears stayed within striking distance throughout, with Mahogany Collins anchoring the interior defensively with nine rebounds and five blocks.

Shaw returns to action Monday night in an exhibition matchup at Norfolk State. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m.