BALTIMORE, MD - The Claflin Lady Panthers (17-11) had their best season since joining the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) came to an end, Friday, when the team took a 70-58 loss to the defending conference champion Elizabeth City State Lady Vikings (20-10). The Lady Panthers put up a great effort, but the team could not find and an answer for the stifling Elizabeth City State defense.
 
The Lady Panthers did their best against the Lady Vikings, but the effort was just not enough. While the Lady Panthers shot a solid 41.7% (25-of-60) from the floor, the team was plagued by 21 turnovers which ended many of the team's offensive possessions. Claflin senior guard Nya Morris led the way for the team with nine points and eight rebounds in the game. Fellow senior forward Destiny Coleman added nine points and six rebounds. Junior guard Lauren Scott and sophomore forward Ashari Lewis both added eight points in the game.
 
With the loss, the Lady Panthers finish the 2023-24 season with a 17-11 record, a second place finish in the CIAA Southern Division, and their first trip to the semifinal round of the championship tournament. For more information on Lady Panthers basketball, contact the Claflin University Office of Athletics Media Relations at (803) 535-5548 or log on to www.athletics.claflin.edu.