Orangeburg, S.C. – The Claflin University women's basketball team opened the 2026-27 season in winning fashion, turning in a strong performance to defeat Coker University, 65-58, on Monday night at Tullis Arena.
Under the leadership of head coach Terrence Jenkins, the Lady Panthers set the tone early and delivered when it mattered most, using balanced scoring and timely offensive execution to secure the season-opening victory. The win also gives Claflin a 3-1 advantage in the all-time series against the Cobras.
The Lady Panthers established an early advantage, taking a 15-11 lead after the first quarter. Claflin continued to apply pressure in the second period, outscoring Coker 19-17 to carry a 34-28 lead into halftime. Claflin maintained its composure down the stretch, getting key baskets from Thompson, including a driving finish with less than a minute remaining. The Lady Panthers also made their opportunities count at the free-throw line, finishing 13 of 15 from the stripe to help secure the seven-point victory.
Davis helped spark the offense, knocking down four 3-pointers on her way to a game-high 19 points. The Lady Panthers continued to apply pressure in the second quarter, with Makiah Thompson providing a steady presence inside. She scored 11 points and went a perfect 5-for-5 from the free-throw line.
The game remained closely contested through the middle quarters, but Claflin continued to battle for opportunities on both ends of the floor. Coker stayed within striking distance after the break, matching Claflin's 15-point third quarter. The Lady Panthers entered the fourth quarter looking to protect a narrow advantage and delivered when it mattered most.
With the game still within reach, the Lady Panthers found another gear down the stretch. Claflin shot 50% from the field and knocked down three 3-pointers in the fourth quarter, helping preserve the lead and close out the seven-point victory.
Claflin's work on both ends of the floor proved important. The Lady Panthers converted 24 points off turnovers, added 20 points from the bench and finished the night shooting 45.1% from the field. They were especially effective at the charity stripe, making 13 of 15 attempts for an 86.7% clip.
Makailah Davis led the charge with a game-high 19 points, connecting on seven of nine shots from the floor, including four 3-pointers. Her efficient shooting provided a spark throughout the contest and helped keep the Lady Panthers in control. Makiah Thompson added 11 points, going a perfect five-for-five from the free-throw line, while Imani Johnson contributed nine points and five rebounds. Aveion Walker chipped in six points and grabbed a team-high six rebounds, giving Claflin another presence on the boards.
The season-opening win gives Jenkins and the Lady Panthers an early boost as they turn their attention to the road.
Up Next
Claflin will look to build on the opening-night performance when it hits the road to face USC Aiken on Wednesday, Nov. 11. Tipoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. in Aiken, South Carolina.
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About Claflin University Athletics
Claflin University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II institution that sponsors 13 intercollegiate sports. The university's athletic program includes volleyball; women's flag football; men's and women's cross country; men's and women's basketball; softball; men's and women's indoor and outdoor track and field; and baseball. Claflin's teams compete primarily in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), while the baseball program competes in the Peach Belt Conference.
