As the calendar year shifts to 2025, the Norfolk State women go in on a high note, having been named the NCAA’s Team of the Week.
On Saturday, the Spartans improved their record to 12-4 after going on the road to beat Auburn 63-57. Auburn’s 57 points account for its lowest point total of the season so far (the previous low was 59 points against California).
The win marked their second over an SEC team this season, previously winning against Missouri.
Norfolk State led for 90% of the contest, including its largest lead of 17 points in the fourth quarter.
Diamond Johnson led the team with 17 points (nine in the third quarter), 11 rebounds, and four steals. Da’Brya Clark chipped in 15 points and five rebounds.
Norfolk State is looking to become the first MEAC women’s basketball team to win three straight regular-season and tournament titles since Hampton did so from 2011-2014.
In addition, Norfolk State head coach Larry Vickers has an opportunity to become just the third person to ever win MEAC Coach of the Year in three straight years (Todd Bozeman and Vanessa Blair-Lewis).
The Spartans begin the defense of their MEAC title in their first game of 2025 on January 4 when they face Maryland-Eastern Shore.