ORANGEBURG, SC - The Claflin Lady Panthers (9-7, 5-4 CIAA) played a great game, but the team came up just short in a 62-55 loss to the Fayetteville State Broncos (12-6, 7-2 CIAA). Playing in their first home game in over a month, the Lady Panthers controlled much of the game, but some fourth quarter struggles proved costly in the hard-fought loss.
 
The loss came despite a great effort by the Lady Panthers. As a team, the Lady Panthers' offense had a tough night. The team shot just 36.0% (18-of-50) from the floor. The team was able to hold the rebounding edge with 35 rebounds. Claflin senior guard Nya Morris continued her fantastic season with 23 points and five rebounds in the game. Junior forward Ashari Lewis continues her strong play recently as she nearly recorded a double-double with nine points and seven rebounds.
 
The game was a close one from the very beginning. In the fourth quarter, the Lady Panthers built a 50-47 lead after a three-pointer from senior guard Myla Lee with 7:52 left to play. Though the teams entered the quarter with a 47-47 tie, the Lady Panthers were outscored 17-8 in the quarter to take the loss. 
 
With the loss, the Lady Panthers fall to 9-7 overall. The team also falls to 5-4 in Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) play and 2-1 in CIAA Southern Division play.
 
The team will return to action, Wednesday, when they head to Columbia, South Carolina to take on the rival Benedict Tigers.
 
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.