Rocky Mount, N.C. - N.C. Wesleyan punched its ticket to the USA South Championship game Thursday night with a thrilling 84–81 semifinal victory over Southern Virginia at Everett Gymnasium in front of a very large and lively home crowd. In a contest that featured multiple lead changes and high-level shot making on both sides, the Bishops fed off the energy inside Everett and set the tone early with a 40-point first half. Southern Virginia battled back in the second half, but Wesleyan answered every run with poise and timely baskets. The game came down to the final seconds, where the Bishops executed in pressure moments, converting key free throws and defensive stops to seal the dramatic three-point win. Wesleyan shot an impressive 50.8 percent from the field and 46.7 percent from three-point range while forcing 12 turnovers and turning them into 26 points.

Justin Burden led the charge with a dominant 27-point performance on 12-of-16 shooting, controlling the paint and delivering in crucial late-game situations. James Jones added 15 points, knocking down five three-pointers and collecting five steals in a complete two-way effort. Rashod Smith contributed 14 points and four assists, including a clutch fast-break jumper in the closing seconds that swung momentum back in Wesleyan's favor. Deejayy Cox chipped in 10 points and five rebounds, while Omari Bolden provided a strong lift off the bench with 11 points. The balanced attack and composure under pressure highlighted why the Bishops have been one of the conference's top teams all season.

With the exciting semifinal victory, N.C. Wesleyan advances to the USA South Tournament Finals, which will be played at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 28 at Pfeiffer University as the Bishops look to capture a conference championship.