ORANGEBURG, SC - The Claflin Panthers (5-5, 2-1 CIAA) got a big second half to pull away and claimed an 82-69 win over the Bluefield State Big Blue (6-9, 3-3 CIAA), Thursday evening. After a close first half, the Panthers exploded for a big second half and claimed the victory.
 
As usual, the Panthers utilized a balanced offensive attack to claim the win. As a team, the Panthers shot 50% (31-of-62) from the floor while holding the Big Blue to shooting just 38.6% (27-of-70). Claflin senior forward Timothy McElroy led the Panthers with a double-double 22 points with 10 rebounds in the game. Senior guard Jailen Williams also nearly recorded a double-double with 10 points and eight rebounds. Junior guard John Whitehead, III, scored 14 points. Senior guard DaiJohn Stewart came off the bench for 13 points with six rebounds while junior guard Damerius Wash added 10 points as well.
 
With the win, the Panthers improve to 5-5 overall and 2-1 in Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) play. The team will return to action, Tuesday, when they host the Virginia Union Panthers. For more information on Panthers basketball, contact the Claflin University Office of Athletics Media Relations at (803) 535-5548 or log on to www.athletics.claflin.edu.