INSTITUTE, WVA - The Claflin Panthers (1-0) got their season started in exciting fashion when the team took a thrilling 95-92 overtime win over the Glenville State Pioneers (0-1) in the opening game of the Earl Lloyd Classic hosted by West Virginia University. After playing to a 79-79 tie in regulation, the Panthers outscored the Pioneers 16-13 in the overtime period to secure the season-opening victory.
 
The game came as the result of a terrific overall team effort by the Panthers. The team shot a solid 43.1% (31-of-72) from the floor and forcing 23 Glenville State turnovers. Claflin senior guard Cristian Sanon led the way for the team with 21 points in the game, including hitting four three-pointers. Junior guard Xavier Matthews-Tubbs added 18 points as well. Claflin senior forward David Onyekonwu led the Panthers' rebounding effort with 10 rebounds and three blocks in the game.
 
With the win, the Panthers open the season at 1-0. The team will return to the court, tomorrow when they take on the host West Virginia State Yellowjackets. 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.