BALTIMORE, MD - The Claflin Lady Panthers (17-10) took control of the game early and never looked back on their way to a 71-45 win over the Shaw Lady Bears (14-15). The Lady Panthers put on an inspired effort in the game. The team jumped out to an early lead and never looked back to claim the win.
 
The team's defensive effort was the key factor in the win. As a team, the Lady Panthers held the Lady Bears to just 45 points and forced them to shoot 32.8% from the floor with 22 turnovers. With the defensive effort in place, Claflin senior guard Nya Morris powered the team's offensive effort with a double-double 25 points and 10 rebounds in the game. Sophomore forward Ashari Lewis added 15 points while redshirt-sophomore forward Leigha Harris added 13 points.
 
With the win, the Lady Panthers improve to 17-10 overall. The team will advance to the semifinal round of the 2024 CIAA Women's Basketball Championship Tournament for the first time in school history. The Lady Panthers will face off against the Elizabeth City State Lady Vikings at noon tomorrow.
 
For more information on Lady Panthers basketball, contact the Claflin University Office of Athletics Media Relations at (803) 5355-5548 or log on to www.athletics.claflin.edu.