Box Score RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia Union picked up a statement win on Tuesday night, defeating No. 11 West Liberty 94–88 inside a packed Barco-Stevens Hall. The Panthers moved to 2–1 on the season after putting together one of the program's most complete offensive performances in recent years, highlighted by a dominant effort in the paint and critical late-game execution.

Virginia Union controlled the tempo early, racing out to a 14–2 lead behind strong finishes from Noah Richardson-Keys and Malachi Dark. West Liberty—the nation's premier up-tempo, pressure-heavy program—responded with a series of threes and took several brief leads, but the Panthers closed the first half with poise and entered the break ahead 41–36.

The second half turned into a high-scoring shootout, but Union repeatedly answered every West Liberty push. The Panthers poured in 53 second-half points, attacking the rim relentlessly and converting 24-of-36 free throws for the game. VUU also forced 23 West Liberty turnovers, turning those mistakes into 38 points, a decisive factor in the win.

Richardson-Keyes delivered one of the best performances of his career, posting 25 points, six rebounds and five steals on an efficient 10-of-13 shooting. Travis Vaughn added 20 points, knocking down big perimeter shots and helping stabilize the offense against full-court pressure. Malachi Dark powered the interior with 16 points and six boards, while Elijah Scranton added 12 points and eight rebounds.

Virginia Union's balance proved too much for the Hilltoppers. The Panthers scored 52 points in the paint, 33 fast-break points, and outrebounded West Liberty 37–34. VUU also finished with 14 steals, disrupting rhythm on nearly every possession.

"Noah and Travis have been our most consistent guys throughout the preseason," said Head Men's Basketball Coach Jay Butler. "They've really stepped up as leaders. West Liberty is a great team—they're ranked No. 11 for a reason—and they're going to press you for 40 minutes. I thought Noah and Travis handled that pressure extremely well, and Noah hit some key baskets down the stretch."

Virginia Union continues to build early-season momentum heading into its next match up.

The Panthers return to action on Monday, November 24, when they travel to Athens, W.Va., to face Concord University.