HAMPTON, Va. (Nov. 19, 2023) … After struggling in its first two games of the season, Hampton (0-3) played longtime rival Norfolk State (5-0) on even terms throughout the first three quarters before falling 59-45 to the Lady Spartans before 1,316 fans at the Convocation Center.

Hampton rallied in the third quarter to tie the score, 37-37, heading into the final quarter of play. But Norfolk State took control outscoring the Lady Pirates in the final period, 22-8, for its fifth consecutive win of the season.

Aisha Dabo staked Hampton to its first lead of the season with a three-pointer in the opening minute of the game. The first quarter was a back-and-forth affair.

Playing before a home team crowd for the first time this season, Hampton tied the score, 13-13, at the end of the first quarter. Norfolk State took the lead early in the second quarter and led 26-21 at halftime.

Norfolk State dominated the boards in the first 20 minutes, outrebounding Hampton, 20-12. But the Lady Pirates defense limited Norfolk State to 30.2 percent shooting from the field in the first half and forced 12 turnovers. Dabo and Ariana Wilkes each scored five points in the first half for the Lady Pirates.

Norfolk State scored the first six points of the second half to take a 32-21 lead. But Hampton responded by scoring the next seven points to cut the deficit to 32-28 with 4:29 left in the third quarter. A Hampton layup at the third quarter buzzer tied the score 37-37.

Norfolk State outscored Hampton 9-2 to start the fourth quarter to build a 46-39 advantage. Hampton battled back but the Lady Spartans inside strength was too much for the outmanned Lady Pirates.

Hampton travels to the Long Island University Classic over the Thanksgiving holidays. The Lady Pirates take on New Mexico State in the opening game on Nov. 24 before facing host Long Island on Nov. 25.