Norfolk State Women Advance to MEAC Championship

Spartans one win away from fourth straight conference title

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:34pm

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The Norfolk State women's basketball team defeated Maryland Eastern Shore 59-47 in the MEAC tournament semifinals, advancing to the conference championship game. The Spartans overcame a slow start and 15 first-half turnovers to rally in the second half, led by 19 points from Jasha Clinton and 15 points from Cire Worley. This will be Norfolk State's fourth straight appearance in the MEAC title game under head coach Jermaine Woods.

Why it matters

Norfolk State's women's basketball program has been a dominant force in the MEAC in recent years, winning three straight conference championships. Reaching the title game again keeps their bid for a fourth straight conference crown alive and maintains the program's status as one of the top mid-major teams in the country.

The details

After a sluggish first half where Norfolk State committed 15 turnovers, the Spartans settled in during the second quarter. Dabrya Clark hit a key three-pointer to spark the offense, and Jasha Clinton led the team with 19 points while Cire Worley added 15 points on 3-of-6 shooting from three-point range. The win sends Norfolk State to the MEAC championship game for the first time under head coach Jermaine Woods.

  • The MEAC tournament semifinal game was played on Friday, March 14, 2026.
  • Norfolk State will face Howard in the MEAC championship game on Saturday, March 15, 2026.

The players

Jasha Clinton

A key player for Norfolk State who led the team with 19 points in the semifinal win.

Cire Worley

Scored 15 points on 3-of-6 shooting from three-point range to help Norfolk State rally in the second half.

Jermaine Woods

The head coach of the Norfolk State women's basketball team, leading them to their fourth straight MEAC championship game appearance.

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What they’re saying

“I think going to the championship is personal for me because I've changed a lot. My teammates right now don't really know the past Jasha, so for me it's just a big change. I'm just happy to get to the championship and be this new person that I am for my daughter.”

— Jasha Clinton (13newsnow.com)

What’s next

Norfolk State will face Howard in the MEAC championship game on Saturday, March 15, 2026, with the winner earning an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Norfolk State's women's basketball team has established itself as a consistent powerhouse in the MEAC, reaching the conference championship game for the fourth straight year. The Spartans' ability to overcome a slow start and rally in the second half showcases the team's resilience and determination to defend their recent run of conference titles.