Virginia State investigating basketball brawl vs. ECSU

A brawl following a basketball game at Virginia State against Elizabeth City may end up in charges being brought on one or more parties.

VSU released the following statement on Thursday afternoon following a brawl the previous night after its 67-64 win over CIAA rival Elizabeth City State.

“On January 24, 2018, after the Trojans Men’s Basketball game, physical altercations started as the Elizabeth City State University Men’s Basketball team departed from the basketball court to their locker room. The Virginia State University (VSU) Police Department responded to the incident and is conducting an investigation, which may lead to criminal charges.

We are deeply distraught, appalled and disturbed that a great game of basketball and sportsmanship ended with such absurdity.

Wow Brawl at VSU vs ECSU game
#VSU # ECSU@blkgrizzo: Nvm 💀 idc pic.twitter.com/yYuxR4Jicc

— The Skin I'm In (@Apartylife357) January 25, 2018

In moving forward, the Athletics Department and the VSU Multipurpose Center will work even more closely with the Virginia State University Police Department to increase the security at every athletic game.

We are and will always be deeply committed to the safety of our students, employees, and visitors. To the Elizabeth City State University family, we sincerely want to apologize for our display of unsportsmanlike conduct.”

Elizabeth City responds

On Thursday afternoon Elizabeth City State issued the following statement:

We have heard from the VSU leadership and they have apologized for the unsportsman-like conduct of their fans.

The matter is currently under investigation by VSU officials, including their campus police. We have been informed that criminal charges will be filed against the individuals who assaulted our players.

The safety and well-being of our students and staff is our primary concern. We will be monitoring the situation until resolution.

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