Bluefield, WV – Bluefield State University men's basketball took down Claflin University 85-82. The Big Blue improve to 8-5 (2-2 CIAA) on the year with the Panthers falling to 9-7 (3-3 CIAA).
The Panthers took the early 10-6 lead, but a layup from Romeo Aquino followed by five points from Shainen Carter put the Big Blue ahead 11-10. Later in the half, the Big Blue extended their lead after back-to-back layups from Jaylen Bernard and Rell Williams 30-25. The Panthers took the one-point lead with two minutes left in the first, but the Big Blue answered with three to take back the lead. The Panthers evened the score at the 34 seconds mark to go into the half.
After 14 lead changes, the Big Blue began to pull away with six minutes left to play. A three-point play by Williams sparked a six-point run to give the Big Blue the 75-70 lead. The Panthers pulled within one of the Big Blue twice but a trip to the line for Williams sealed the 85-82 victory over Claflin.
Williams led the Big Blue with 23 points, seven assists and six rebounds with Carter adding 14 points. Aquino led all players with seven rebounds and added 13 points. Jordan Hinds contributed 12 points and six rebounds with Travon Cooper II adding 11.
Final: Bluefield State 85, Claflin 82
Up Next: Bluefield State vs. Johnson C. Smith Monday, January 6th at 5 p.m.
