Claflin Panthers Surge Past Virginia State in CIAA Quarterfinals, Set Sights on WSSU Rams

ORANGEBURG, S.C. - The Claflin University Panthers roared past the Virginia State University Trojans in the CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association) quarterfinals, securing a decisive 56-42 victory. Now, the Panthers set their sights on a showdown with the No. 19 Winston-Salem State University Rams in the CIAA semifinals.

The Lady Panthers established control early, dictating the tempo and never relinquishing the lead. Head coach Terrence Jenkins emphasized his team's determination to strike first.

"We told them, we're going to hit them first," Jenkins said. "They're going to make a run. We just have to be ready."

Claflin's perimeter shooting and stifling defense fueled their dominance.

When Virginia State threatened to make a comeback, cutting the lead to two in the third quarter, Claflin responded with a decisive 12-0 run sparked by their defensive intensity and transition baskets.

Junior guard Ashari Lewis emphasized the importance of maintaining calm and focus during the critical defensive stand.

"The biggest thing was just keeping that mindset," Lewis said. "Making sure everybody was still calm and not overwhelmed."

Senior guard Tyra Floyd, returning from last season's injury, provided veteran leadership and timely scoring, underscoring her gratitude for the opportunity to compete alongside her teammates once again.

Now, Claflin turns its attention to the CIAA semifinal showdown with the CIAA South's top seed, Winston-Salem State University. The Rams swept the regular-season series, but Jenkins and the Panthers are determined to rewrite the script in the CIAA's biggest weekend.

"They play hard," Jenkins said. "They live off turnovers. We've got to execute and rebound. Best team will win."

The semifinal matchup tips off at noon on Friday, February 27th, and Claflin knows the stakes are high. Clean up the possessions, maintain defensive intensity, and seize the opportunity to advance - that's the formula for success.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.