CHARLOTTE, NC - The Claflin Lady Panthers (11-5, 5-5 CIAA) passed one of their toughest tests of the season when the team took a hard-fought five-set road win over the Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls (4-11, 2-8 CIAA), Thursday evening. After taking losses in the two opening sets of the match, the Lady Panthers stormed back with wins in the final three sets.
 
The Lady Panthers took the win behind a strong defensive effort and a solid, balanced offensive attack. As a team, the Lady Panthers totaled a season-high 85 digs in the match, including a team-high 20 digs by sophomore libero Jasmine Kirkland. Senior defensive specialist Ayanna Harrison added 13 digs as well. Senior outside hitter Simone Newell continued to be a spectacular all-around player with a double-double 13 kills and 14 digs. Sophomore middle blocker Taneja Robinson added eight total blocks (none solo) along with eight digs and four kills as well.
 
With the win, the Lady Panthers improve to 11-5 overall and 5-5 in Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) play. The team remains solidly in second place in the CIAA Southern Division. The Lady Panthers will return home for their next action as they will host the Winston-Salem State Rams in a 6:00 p.m. match.
 
For more information on Lady Panthers volleyball, contact the Claflin University Office of Athletics Media Relations at (803) 535-5548 or log on to www.athletics.claflin.edu.