VCU, which dropped its exhibition opener at Villanova last week, got 18 points from LSU transfer Tyrell Ward in an 82-64 exhibition win over Fairfield on Sunday at the Siegel Center.
The Rams, who never trailed, shot 52 percent (28-of-54) from the field, including 57 percent (16-of-28) in the first half on the way to a 39-26 lead at the break.
Ward was 6-of-8 from the floor and 3-of-5 from three in 19 minutes for first-year coach Phil Martelli Jr.
Redshirt senior guard Jadrian Tracey had 11 points, nine rebounds and five assists, and Brandon Jennings and Michael Belle had 10 each for VCU, which will tip off the 2025-2026 season on Monday, Nov. 3, when it hosts Wagner at 7 p.m. at the Siegel Center.
That game will air live on MASN and ESPN+.