Honoring hometown champions //
Virginia Union University basketball standout Ashley Smith, center, reacts to laudatory comments made by Richmond City Council President Chris A. Hilbert during Monday night’s City Council meeting. Ms. Smith, her teammates with the Lady Panthers and Coach AnnMarie Gilbert, left, were recognized by Mayor Levar M. Stoney and City Council for their championship showing in this year’s NCAA Division II Tournament. The Elite Eight team lost in the tournament final to Ashland University of Ohio. During the tournament, Dominion Energy lighted up its Downtown building with a message of support for the Lady Panthers. Mr. Hilbert said Monday the team lighted up the hearts of all Richmonders with its championship skill, poise and spirit. Ms. Smith scored 28 points in the team’s semifinal victory over California Baptist University, a feat Mr. Hilbert said he could never achieve, evoking laughter from the team.
