LEIPSIC, Del. (Interstat) — The Delaware State Hornets used a dominant first quarter and a balanced offensive attack to cruise past the South Carolina State Bulldogs 71-38 in a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference women’s basketball game Thursday night at Memorial Hall.

A crowd of 300 watched the Hornets improve to 6-21 overall, while the Bulldogs fell to 5-22. The victory completed a season sweep for Delaware State, which defeated South Carolina State 67-47 on Jan. 22.

The most important part of the game was its opening sequence, which set a decisive tone. Delaware State established immediate control with a 19-10 first-quarter advantage, fueled by defensive pressure that forced numerous South Carolina State turnovers and disrupted any offensive rhythm. The Bulldogs managed only five points in the second quarter, and by halftime, the Hornets had built a 30-15 lead from which South Carolina State never recovered.

Delaware State’s offense was paced by Nevaeh Reaves, who scored a game-high 16 points. Amya Scott added 12 points, while Ericka Huggins and Jermesha Frierson each contributed 11. Frierson also dished out four assists. Liliana Harrison provided a strong interior presence with 10 points and multiple blocks and steals.

For South Carolina State, Dream Watson led the way with 13 points. DaH’Neisha Blige came off the bench to score six points in 11 minutes.

The Hornets steadily expanded their lead after halftime, outscoring the Bulldogs 17-7 in the third quarter to put the game out of reach. Delaware State’s largest advantage came in the fourth quarter, where they poured in 24 points to South Carolina State’s 16, showcasing their depth and maintaining intensity until the final buzzer.

The game was characterized by Delaware State’s defensive activity, which generated a significant number of steals and blocks, leading to transition opportunities. South Carolina State struggled with ball security and shot creation against the Hornets’ persistent defense throughout the contest.

According to the Interstat ELO system, Delaware State entered the game with a 77.70 percent probability to win, a forecast borne out by the lopsided result.

South Carolina State has now lost five consecutive games. Delaware State snapped a two-game skid with the victory.

Both teams return to MEAC play on Saturday. South Carolina State travels to face Maryland-Eastern Shore, while Delaware State hosts North Carolina Central.