Norfolk State Avenges January Loss to Maryland-Eastern Shore

Spartans defeat Hawks 70-66 in MEAC matchup

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Norfolk State men's basketball team defeated Maryland-Eastern Shore 70-66, avenging their earlier January loss to the Hawks. Anthony McComb III and Devon Ellis each scored 17 points to lead the Spartans, who improved to 13-14 overall and 6-4 in MEAC play with the victory. The win marks Norfolk State's third straight triumph.

Why it matters

This game was an important MEAC conference matchup, as Norfolk State and Maryland-Eastern Shore are both contenders in the league standings. The Spartans' victory helps them climb to fourth place in the MEAC, while denying the Hawks a regular season sweep over their conference rival.

The details

Norfolk State trailed by one point with 7:06 remaining, but responded with a 13-2 run to take the lead for good. Dian Wright-Forde added 10 points off the bench for the Spartans, and Elijah Jamison eclipsed the 1,000 point mark in the second half. Norfolk State shot 52% from the field and made 9 of 18 three-pointers, while also recording 9 steals on the night.

  • The game was played on February 17, 2026.
  • Norfolk State previously lost to Maryland-Eastern Shore 74-70 in January 2026.

The players

Anthony McComb III

A Norfolk State player who scored 17 points in the game.

Devon Ellis

A Norfolk State player who scored 17 points in the game.

Dian Wright-Forde

A Norfolk State player who scored 10 points off the bench.

Elijah Jamison

A Norfolk State player who eclipsed the 1,000 point mark in the second half of the game.

Robert Jones

The head coach of the Norfolk State men's basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Norfolk State returns home on Saturday to host South Carolina State. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. at Echols Hall.

The takeaway

This victory helps Norfolk State climb in the MEAC standings and avenge their earlier loss to Maryland-Eastern Shore, denying the Hawks a regular season sweep over their conference rival. The Spartans' strong shooting performance and balanced scoring attack were key factors in the win.