ORANGEBURG, S.C. - Kentucky State's (KSU) women opened up Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) play tonight with a 76-63 win over Claflin University (CU).

The Lady Panthers scored the first bucket of the game and after several missed shots by both teams, KSU tied the game at two at the 16:54 mark. With 14:45 in the first half, KSU's Kiarra Morgan was fouled on a made layup; she made the free throw giving the 'Brettes their first lead of the game at 5-4. As the half continued, the Thorobrettes built upon that lead, ballooning it to as many as 11. The Lady Panthers, however, ended the half on a 17-8 run and went into the locker room with just a two-point deficit.

The second half belonged to KSU as the Thorobrettes started the last 20 minutes on a 15-0 run and racked up 24 points in the paint, 16 points off turnovers and 6 second-chance points.

Cortney Matthewis paced the 'Brettes with game-highs in points (23) and blocks (3). Morgan chipped in 18 points and nine rebounds (7 defensive), while Kiera Nelson added 13 points and six boards.

Despite being out-rebounded 32-42, the Thorobrettes were solid from the field and free throw line, shooting 27-53 from the field and knocking down 21-24 free throws.

KSU comes home on Saturday, November 27 to battle conference opponent Benedict College. Tip-off is 1:00 p.m.