Virginia Union University's bowling team completed the greatest season in the history of the program by placing second in the CIAA Championship Tournament, held on March 24-25 in Salem, Va.

Virginia Union's match facing Bowie State caused an upset as they defeated the No. 2 seed to push them in to the loser's bracket. The Panthers took control early, winning the first two games 194-191 and 188-140. The Bulldogs found their pace in the third game to win 199-167. The Panthers regrouped and put their foot on the pedal to seal the last two games with a win of 165-148 and 181-150.

Virginia Union finished second as Fayetteville State University, marking the highest finish for a Lady Panther bowling team.

VUU also finished the season with a 55-24 record overall, marking the first time in program history that a Virginia Union bowling team had more than 50 wins in a single season.

Virginia Union's head coach, James Washington, became the first VUU bowling coach to be named the CIAA Coach of the Year.

VUU's Amaree Durfee was named to the CIAA All-Tournament Team, while Virginia Union's Kiara Powell and Alexis Jackson were named to the All-CIAA Team for 2023-24.

"Wow, what a great season for the women's bowling team," said Washington.  "To be picked to finish sixth in preseason vote and to make it to the championship match was incredible.  I am so proud of the entire team.  The dedication and effort they gave all season was remarkable. The second-place finish was a great accomplishment and a testament to how much hard work the young ladies put in all season.  This was the most enjoyable season I have had as the coach of the bowling team.  Being named coach of the year was only because of the performance of the team.  It truly is  a team award.  The  bowling team made great strides this year and I look forward to another great season next year with three starters returning  to the team."