VCU didn’t blink when the game tightened late. The Rams walked into a tough spot Tuesday and walked out with a 63-59 win over Fordham, extending a five-game winning streak and improving to 16-6 on the season.
The formula was simple and effective: build the cushion early, then withstand the counterpunch. VCU’s 35-22 halftime lead proved to be just enough as Fordham, 12-10 coming in and searching for traction after a 2-3 stretch, turned the second half into a grind.
How it happened
VCU controlled the first half with a 35-22 edge, setting the tone for a game that demanded precision in a low-scoring environment. Fordham’s offense found more rhythm after the break, outscoring VCU 37-28 in the second half, but the early deficit forced the Rams into a narrow path: win the margin possessions late, and the comeback window closes.
Fordham did its part to make it uncomfortable, turning the game into a one-possession fight down the stretch. But every run had to contend with the math of the first half. VCU’s ability to bank that 13-point halftime advantage ultimately separated the teams.
Turning point: the halftime gap
In a game that finished 63-59, the 35-22 halftime scoreline was the hinge. Fordham won the second half by nine, yet still couldn’t fully erase the first-half hole. VCU’s early control didn’t just put points on the board — it dictated the required pace for Fordham the rest of the night.
What it means going forward
For VCU, this was the kind of win that travels: build an advantage, then execute well enough late to survive. The Rams’ current form — five straight wins — stayed intact, and the ability to close out a game even while being outscored after halftime is a useful data point as the season pushes deeper.
For Fordham, the second-half response was real, but the slow start wasn’t survivable against a team playing this well. At 12-10 and coming off a 2-3 stretch, the Rams showed they can raise their level, but the margin for error gets thin when you spot a hot opponent a double-digit halftime lead.
Final score
VCU 63, Fordham 59
Scoring by half
VCU: 35 (1st half), 28 (2nd half) — 63 total
Fordham: 22 (1st half), 37 (2nd half) — 59 total