U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS - The Claflin Panthers (8-5) used a powerful offensive attack to claim the 2024 United States Virgin Islands HBCU Classic Championship. The team broke out for a104-92 win to claim the victory and gave the team their third straight win.
 
The Panthers had one of their most efficient offensive games of the season to claim the victory and the championship. As a team, the Panthers reached their highest point total of the season, scoring 104 points. The team also shot a smoking hot 61.1% (33-of-54) from the field, including hitting 14 three-pointers in the game. Claflin senior guard John Whitehead, III, led the way for the Panthers with 17 points. He also tied for a team-high six rebounds in the game as well. He was one of six Panthers to reach double-digit scoring in the win. Junior guard Guy Fauntleroy came off the bench for a near double-double with 16 points and seven assists in the win.
 
With the win, the Panthers improve to 8-5 overall. The team will return to action, Thursday, when they host the Elizabeth City State Vikings in a Thursday evening Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) game.
 
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.