Virginia Union University's Maia Charles was named the CIAA Women's Basketball Rookie of the Year, it was announced on Sunday, February 23, at the CIAA Tournament Awards Ceremony in Baltimore, Md.

Charles averaged 7.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per game for the Lady Panthers.  She also had 21 blocks on the season.

"We are ecstatic that Maia was named Rookie of the Year because she has worked hard all year and earned the title" said VUU Head Women's Basketball Coach Tierra Terry.  "She has made a tremendous impact on our program in Year 1 and we are looking forward to her growth in the upcoming seasons! She has always been our ROY but we are glad she has been acknowledged by the conference."

VUU opens play in the 2025 CIAA Tournament at 12:00 p.m. On Thursday, February 27, in Baltimore, Md.