Livingstone Women's Basketball Advances Despite Shooting Woes

Blue Bears overcome poor shooting to defeat Elizabeth City State in CIAA Tournament opener

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Livingstone College women's basketball team overcame a dismal shooting performance to defeat Elizabeth City State University 59-46 in the first round of the CIAA Tournament. Livingstone's starting backcourt shot just 2-for-26, but the Blue Bears were able to win the rebounding and turnover battles to advance to the quarterfinals.

Why it matters

Livingstone's ability to win despite its poor shooting performance demonstrates the team's resilience and defensive prowess. The Blue Bears' quarterfinal matchup against top-seeded Bowie State will be a tough test, but the team has proven it can find ways to win even when its shots aren't falling.

The details

Livingstone scored just 3 points in the opening quarter but was able to rebound and take control of the game, outrebounding Elizabeth City State 55-29 and forcing 24 turnovers. Neille Reaves led the Blue Bears with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Damaria Moree added 15 points and 10 rebounds off the bench. CIAA Defensive Player of the Year Breasia Coit contributed 9 points and 12 rebounds for Livingstone.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, February 24, 2026 in the first round of the CIAA Women's Basketball Tournament in Baltimore, Maryland.

The players

Livingstone College

A historically black college and university (HBCU) located in Salisbury, North Carolina, known for its strong women's basketball program.

Elizabeth City State University

A public HBCU located in Elizabeth City, North Carolina that competes in the CIAA conference.

Neille Reaves

A Livingstone College player who led the team with 17 points and 10 rebounds in the win.

Damaria Moree

A Livingstone College player who came off the bench to score 15 points and grab 10 rebounds.

Breasia Coit

The CIAA Defensive Player of the Year for Livingstone College, who contributed 9 points and 12 rebounds.

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What’s next

Livingstone will face top-seeded Bowie State in the CIAA Tournament quarterfinals on Wednesday, February 25, 2026 at 4:30 PM.

The takeaway

Livingstone's ability to win a tournament game despite shooting just 26% from the field demonstrates the team's toughness and defensive prowess. The Blue Bears will need to improve their shooting to have a chance against Bowie State, but their rebounding and turnover margin give them a path to pull off the upset.