Columbia, SC- The electricity was building since 10:30 a.m. and by tip off time the pitch was deafening. For Claflin University and Benedict College the moment had come. A nationally televised men’s basketball game carried on CBS Sports network. An opportunity that comes rarely to NCAA Division II programs that had been afforded to these two prestigious institutions.Crucial free-throw shooting by the Benedict Tigers (16-6, 16-4), foiled all hopes of a miraculous comeback by the Claflin University Panthers (9-14, 8-13). Benedict went 6-6 at the line in the final minute and took the 69-65 SIAC win over Claflin.
The Panthers began the second half down by seven points, and again came out slowly, which quickly put the Tigers up again by double-figures, 39-29 with just one and a half minutes had ticked off the second half clock. But the Panthers never said die and began to cut the Tiger lead inside of ten points 47-54, with: 25 remaining.
And after a steal Claflin’s Stacy McAlister was fouled and he made both free-throws to pull the Panthers to within five points, 49-54. Benedict’s Antrjuan Albright quickly responded with a three point basket to push their lead back to eight points, 49-57, at the 5:13 mark.
Claflin Lady Panthers Fall to Benedict Lady Tigers 62-53
Columbia, SC- The air calmed down considerably, but the game began hot for the Lady Panthers taking a commanding 19-3 lead early. However Benedict tried to make a comeback but could only get as close as eight points 19-11 with six left in the first half. The teams ended the half on even terms scoring 10 points each for the 29-21 halftime score.
Claflin shot a sizzling 42 percent form the floor compared to just 17 percent for Benedict. Claflin was also 60 percent from beyond the arc (3-5) while Benedict was poultry 16 percent.
Natalie Davis went 3-4 from three point land for nine points. Santeria Grooms also scored nine points for Benedict, by intermission.
by Claflin University Sports Information
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