WS Chronicle

Staff Report

The Winston-Salem Chronicle

WINSTON-SALEM — After a season defined by resilience, defense and championship grit, the Winston-Salem State University Lady Rams are headed to the national stage.

The CIAA champions will open play in the NCAA Division II Women’s Basketball Tournament on Friday, March 13, when No. 3 seed Winston-Salem State faces No. 6 seed Glenville State in the opening round. Game time has not yet been announced.

The appearance caps one of the most memorable seasons in recent Lady Rams history — highlighted by a dominant run through the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Tournament, where Winston-Salem State claimed the conference championship and secured its return to the NCAA tournament field.

For the Rams, the moment represents both validation and opportunity.

Under head coach Tierra Terry, the team has built its success on a defense-first identity, disciplined execution and balanced scoring. That formula carried the program through the regular season and into a championship performance during the CIAA tournament — a historic milestone that energized alumni, students and the broader Winston-Salem community.

Now, the Lady Rams will test themselves against a nationally recognized opponent.

Glenville State enters the tournament known across Division II for its fast-paced offensive system and relentless full-court pressure. The Pioneers push tempo, force turnovers and rely on quick scoring bursts to overwhelm opponents.

The matchup creates a compelling contrast in styles.

Winston-Salem State’s success this season has come through disciplined defense, controlling the pace and spreading offensive production across the roster. That approach helped the Rams navigate the CIAA schedule and ultimately capture the conference crown.

The NCAA tournament appearance continues a proud tradition for Winston-Salem State athletics. The university — one of the nation’s historic Black colleges and universities — has long used athletics as a platform for excellence, leadership and community pride.

For many supporters, the Lady Rams’ championship run also reflects the continued rise of women’s athletics within the CIAA and at HBCUs more broadly.

Throughout the conference tournament, Winston-Salem State demonstrated depth and composure in high-pressure moments, a factor that could prove critical against Glenville State’s aggressive style of play.

University officials say fans will be able to follow the game through the tournament broadcast platform once the official tip-off time is announced. The interactive tournament bracket and game updates are available through the university’s athletics website.

For Winston-Salem State, Friday’s matchup represents more than a single game.

It is the next chapter in a season that has already delivered a conference title, renewed energy around the program and another opportunity for the Lady Rams to represent Winston-Salem on a national stage.

And for a team that has spent the year making history, the Rams are hoping their story is far from finished.