Virginia Union University’s Maia Charles was named the CIAA Women’s Basketball Rookie of the Year, a well-deserved honor announced Sunday, Feb. 23, at the CIAA Tournament Awards Ceremony in Baltimore.

The freshman phenom has been a force for the Lady Panthers, averaging 7.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, and racking up 21 blocks this season. Her all-around game has made a big impact in her first year.

“We are ecstatic that Maia was named Rookie of the Year because she has worked hard all year and earned the title,” said VUU Head Women’s Basketball Coach Tierra Terry. “She has made a tremendous impact on our program in Year one and we are looking forward to her growth in the upcoming seasons! She has always been our Rookie of the Year, but we are glad she has been acknowledged by the conference.”

VUU kicks off action in the 2025 CIAA Tournament at noon Thursday, Feb. 27, in Baltimore.