Virginia Union University's Ifunanya Okoye set a new freshman single-game record by scoring 32 points as VUU defeated Elizabeth City State University 74-58 on Wednesday, January 30, in Elizabeth City, N.C.

Okoye hit 15 of 19 shots from the field and also grabbed a team-high 11 rebounds.

Okoye's 32 points is the most ever for a freshman in a single game.  The previous mark was 27, set by Ashle Freeman in 2012 and then equaled by Shareka McNeill in 2018.

"We had a huge effort from Iffy tonight," said VUU Head Coach AnnMarie Gilbert.  "She was unstoppable in the inside."

VUU's Shareka McNeill scored 16 points while teammate Jasmine Carter pulled down 10 rebounds.

Virginia Union's Nicole Floyd also scored 12 points in the win.

VUU's defense was another reason for the victory.  The Lady Panthers held Elizabeth City State to just five points in the first quarter and 15 in the first half.

"I was super impressed with out first-half defense," said Gilbert.  "We held ECSU to 18% from the field and 12% from behind the arc.  Overall our defense is improving with each game.  If we can put two halves together, it will prepare us well for post-season play."

Virginia Union is now 18-1 overall and 9-1 in the CIAA.  Elizabeth City State fell to 13-9 overall and 5-6 in CIAA play.

The Lady Panthers now return home to face Chowan University at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 2, at Barco-Stevens Hall in Richmond, Va.