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Peach Belt champs Clayton State add 
two more to 2005-06 recruiting class  

Morrow, GA — August 1, 2005 – Clayton State University women’s basketball, the defending Peach Belt Conference champion, has announced the signing of two players, rounding out its recruiting class for the 2005-06 season.  

Head coach Dennis Cox has announced the signing of Crystal Brown, a junior college transfer from Indian River Community College in Florida and Kim Lloyd, a junior transferring from Georgia Southwestern University in Americus, GA. 

“Crystal is the small forward that we targeted in the early signing period back in November, and we are thrilled that she stuck with us.” said head coach Dennis Cox. “She is a great athlete that can really score off the dribble with a nice pull up jump shot. She’ll be a nice fit in our up tempo, pressing style of play as well.”  

Brown, a 5-10 forward, averaged over 17 points per game at Indian River and was a two-time selection to the first team All-FCCAA Southern Conference team. She also averaged seven rebounds per contest, while shooting 57 percent from the floor and 84 percent from the free throw line.  

Lloyd started 25 games last year at Georgia Southwestern, averaging six points and over three assists per game. Her top game came against SCAD with 11 points, 10 assists and three steals.  

“We are pleased to add Kim to our roster and welcome her home,” said Cox. “She had a nice career for Coach (Hilda) Hankerson at Westlake H.S., and she will add to our depth at the point position. She is a super kid.” 

Brown and Lloyd join Clayton State’s national caliber recruiting class that consists of six additional newcomers to the program. Cox’s other signees include: guards Roberta Phillips and Teri Willis; forward Sharon Wiles; and posts Tracey Browne, Alecia Humphrey and Jelela Simpson.  

Phillips, a 5-foot-7 shooting guard from Savannah, GA, received NJCAA All-Region VIII honors this past year, playing at Palm Beach Community College in Florida. She averaged 19 points, eight rebounds, three assists and four steals per game. A 5-5 point guard also from Savannah, GA, Willis played at Florida Community College and is a two-time Mid-Florida All-Conference recipient. She averaged 13 points, three assists and two steals per game. 

Wiles, a 5-foot-9 forward from Kingsport, Jamaica, is a transfer from Tallahassee Community College, where she also received NJCAA All-Region honors this past year. She averaged 17 points, seven rebounds and four steals per game.   

A 6-2 post from Okmulgee, OK, Humphrey was a teammate of Phillips at PBCC and received All-Southern Conference. She averaged 12 points, eight rebounds, two steals and over a block per game.  Browne is a 6-3 post from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, and like Wiles, starred at TCC. She averaged four points and over six rebounds and shot 50 percent from the floor her sophomore season.  A 6-foot post from Oakland, California, Simpson is a junior college transfer from Odessa College in Texas.  She averaged 11 points, eight rebounds and three steals per game, while shooting 49 percent from the floor.  

Clayton State graduated six players from the 2004-05 squad that finished with a school best 25-7 record. Along with winning the Peach Belt regular season and conference tournament for the first time, the program also played in its first NCAA Division II Tournament, advancing to the second round of the national tournament.

Former USC Aiken assistant joins
Clayton State women’s basketball staff

Morrow, GA --- May 10, 2005 --- Clayton College & State University head women’s basketball coach Dennis Cox has announced the hiring of Shannon Reid as an assistant coach on the Laker staff. 

Reid will begin her first season at Clayton State after coaching last year at Peach Belt Conference school, the University of South Carolina Aiken in Aiken, SC. She helped lead the Lady Pacers to a 19-13 record last year and their second trip to the NCAA Division II national tournament. 

She joins former player and student assistant Catreia Shaw on the Laker sideline for the 2005-06 season. In addition to her coaching duties, she will also assist in recruiting, scouting and basketball operations. The position became available after last year’s assistant Kate Kauffman decided to pursue a career closer to her degree and student-assistant Alison Cox will begin her master’s degree next fall. 

 “We are delighted to add someone with Shannon’s experience and credentials to our staff,” said head coach Dennis Cox. “I think she will be a tremendous mentor for our players. Shannon has experienced success everywhere she’s been and I look for that to continue here.”  

Said Reid, “I’m very excited about my opportunity at Clayton State. Coach Cox is a super coach and quickly turned around the Clayton State program, leading the team to the Peach Belt Conference regular season and tournament championships last year. I am anxious to work and learn in his system and be a part of the Laker program.” 

Prior to coaching at USC Aiken, Reid was an assistant coach in 2003 at St. Andrews College, a NCAA Division II school in the Carolinas Virginia Athletic Conference (CVAC). She also was head coach and director of the Mosney’s Women’s Club/Junior Club in Dublin, Ireland, serving in that capacity while playing professionally. 

Reid was a standout player at both the professional and college level. In Ireland, she was the only American in the Dart Killester Super League and was third on her squad in scoring, leading the squad to the Cup Finals in 2004. 

A three-year starter at Pfeiffer University, she starred for the Falcons and helped lead the team to back-to-back CVAC Championships in 2003 and 2002. As a senior, she led the team to a 24-5 record and averaged 14 points per game and was named 2003 CVAC Player of the Year and Pfeiffer’s “Female Athlete of the Year.” Her junior season, Reid averaged 16 points per contest and was an All-CVAC performer. 

In addition to these honors, she was a member’s of Pfeiffer’s 1,000 Point Club in only three seasons and ranked third in the nation in three-point field goal percentage in 2003, leading the school to its first NCAA Division II national tournament appearance. 

Reid, a native of Granite Falls, NC, is 2003 graduate of Pfeiffer, in Misenheimer, NC, with a B.A. in sports management. 

Clayton State finished the 2004-05 season with a school best 25-7 record, winning the Peach Belt Conference regular season and the Conference Tournament Championships. The program also played in its first NCAA Division II Tournament, advancing to the second round of the national event.

Morrow, GA — May 2, 2005– The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball program has solidified its front-court, signing a trio of players to help defend its Peach Belt Conference regular season and tournament championships next year.   

Head coach Dennis Cox has announced the signing of three talented junior college players in Sharon Wiles, Jelela Simpson and Tracey Browne. All three players competed at the junior college level last year and are expected to contribute immediately in the Clayton State program.  

"We're thrilled to add this kind of size and athleticism to our team,” said head coach Dennis Cox. “I can't wait to coach these new players and fit them into our system." 

Wiles, a 5-foot-9 forward from Kingsport, Jamaica, is a junior college transfer from Tallahassee Community College in Tallahassee, Florida, where she played for coach Teresa Atkinson.  Sharon played her freshman season at Brevard Community College in Melbourne, Florida before transferring to TCC for her sophomore year.  She received NJCAA All-Region honors this past year, averaging 17.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 4.6 steals per game.   

“Sharon is just an unbelievable athlete,” said Cox. “She runs like the wind and is an incredible leaper.  Her experience in the game of netball has made her a great passer and team player, as well.”  

Wiles is the second NJCAA All-Region selection to sign with the Lakers, joining Roberta Phillips of Palm Beach CC.  Sharon shot 72 percent from the free throw line in 126 attempts, and her 4.6 steals per game was the third highest average in the country last season among Division I junior college players.  She was also one of the world's best netball players and once won a world netball championship with her Jamaican team. 

A 6-foot post from Oakland, California, Jelela Simpson is a junior college transfer from Odessa College in Odessa, Texas, where she played for coach Nate Altenhofen.  Jelela played her freshman year at Contra Costa College in California before transferring to Odessa for her sophomore season.  She averaged 11 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.1 steals per game.  She also shot 49.3 percent from the floor, while her 3.1 steals per contest ranked 22nd in the nation among Division I junior college players.   

“Jelela is a 6-foot athlete that is going to be just awesome in our press,” said Cox. “She has great anticipation and range in the full court and really attacks the basketball on the boards.” 

Browne is a 6-3 post from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, and like Wiles, is also a junior college transfer from Tallahassee Community College. Tracey averaged 4.2 points and 6.4 rebounds and shot 49.5 percent from the floor her sophomore season.  She had a stellar high school career at Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas. 

“Tracey Browne gives us a combination of size, strength and athleticism that we did not have this past year,” said Cox.  

The trio of Wiles, Simpson and Browne join three other Laker signees this spring in Palm Beach Community College’s Roberta Phillips, Florida Community College’s Teri Willis and PBCC’s Alecia Humphrey.  

Phillips, a 5-foot-7 shooting guard from Savannah, GA, received NJCAA All-Region VIII honors this past year, while averaging 18.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 3.6 steals per game. Willis, a 5-5 point guard also from Savannah, is a two-time Mid-Florida All-Conference recipient, and averaged 13.3 points, 2.8 assists, and 2.4 steals per game. A 6-2 post from Okmulgee, OK, Humphrey received All-Southern Conference honors, averaging 12.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game.   

Clayton State graduated six players from the 2004-05 squad that finished with a school best 25-7 record. Along with winning the Peach Belt regular season and conference tournament for the first time, the program also played in its first NCAA Division II Tournament, advancing to the second round of the national tournament.   

###CCSU###

Morrow, GA — April 20, 2005– The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball program, the 2004-05 Peach Belt Conference regular season and tournament champions, has signed a trio of players to help defend its titles.  

Head coach Dennis Cox has announced the signing of three talented junior college players in Roberta Phillips, Teri Willis and Alecia Humphrey to letters of intent. All three players competed in the Florida Junior College ranks and will enter the Clayton State program as sophomores.  

"We were extremely excited to sign these quality players at the onset of the late signing period,” said head coach Dennis Cox. “There were lots of smiles and back slaps for everyone in the women's basketball office on signing day.  Our players did a great job in recruiting these new players, and once again they delivered for us with the pressure on.  These were heavily sought after recruits, and I think it just says a lot for the direction we're headed.” 

Phillips, a 5-foot-7 shooting guard from Savannah, GA, will transfer from Palm Beach Community College in Lake Worth, FL, where she played for coach Chanita Olds.  She received NJCAA All-Region VIII honors this past year, while averaging 18.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 3.6 steals per game.  

She led her team to a 16-win season and a conference championship.  She also shot 76 percent from the free throw line in 127 attempts.  As a senior at Johnson High School in Savannah, Phillips averaged 19.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 6.0 and was named first team All-Region. 

Willis is a 5-5 point guard and also hails from Savannah, Ga.  She is a junior college transfer from Florida Community College in Jacksonville, Florida, where she played for coach Debra Woods.  She is a two-time Mid-Florida All-Conference recipient, and as a sophomore, averaged 13.3 points, 2.8 assists, and 2.4 steals per game.  She also made 84 three-point shots on the year and shot 78 percent from the free throw line.  Willis played her high school career at Beach High School in Savannah. 

A 6-2 post from Okmulgee, OK, Humphrey also played at Palm Beach Community College where she was a teammate of Phillips.  Alecia received All-Southern Conference honors her sophomore season, averaging 12.3 points, 8.0 rebounds, 2.2 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game.  She also shot 50 percent from the floor in 242 attempts.  Humphrey had a stellar high school career at Okmulgee High School in Oklahoma, where she averaged 22 points and 18.8 rebounds per game and recorded a career best 37 points in a game in her senior season.  

“These two guards, Roberta and Teri, were two of the best guards in the Florida junior college system, which is arguably the strongest in the country,” said Cox. “Alecia is a true Division I post player that can anchor our middle, but is athletic enough to play in our up-tempo, pressing style.  We have some more work to do to complete our roster, but I like our start." 

Clayton State graduated six players off the 2004-05 squad that finished with a school best 25-7 record. Along with winning the Peach Belt regular season and conference tournament for the first time, the program also played in its first NCAA Division II Tournament, advancing to the second round of the national tournament. 

###CCSU###

Raleigh, N.C. --- March 11, 2005 --- The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team took a step closer down the road to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight, winning its first round game Friday in the NCAA Division II South Atlantic Regional.

A 28-7 run in just over a 10-minute stretch in the second half was the difference, as the Lakers turned a close contest into a whopping victory, defeating Newberry College 79-54 at the regional hosted by Shaw University.

The Lakers, the No. 2 seed, will try to keep their 11-game winning streak alive on Saturday, facing the No. 3 seed Carson-Newman College. The Eagles defeated Fayetteville State University, the No. 6 seed in the first round, 79-67, to advance to Saturday's 6 p.m. semifinal game.

Saturday's meeting will be the second of the season between Clayton State and Carson-Newman, the top team out of the South Atlantic Conference.   Earlier this season, Clayton State came away with a 76-54 win in the finals of the Heritage Bank Tip-Off Classic.

“We got off to a good start, and I was happy about that,” said head coach Dennis Cox. “You’re always worried about getting off to a slow start in a game of this magnitude. For whatever reason, we went a little stale in the second half, and they cut the deficit to six points. We brought some players off the bench at that time, and they responded to push our lead back to double-digits. I thought that was the key to the game.”

With the win, the Lakers improve to a school-best 25-6 on the season and extend their school record winning streak to 11 games. Clayton State’s last loss came at the hands of Columbus State University over a month ago. The loss ends Newberry’s season at 18-12 on the year.

Leading by only six points, 47-41, with 14:20 remaining, Clayton State took control of Friday’s contest with its 21-point second half run. Junior Carlie Anderson ignited the run, draining a three-pointer at the 13:57 mark, giving the squad a 50-41 advantage.

After both teams swapped baskets for the next four minutes, a layup by senior Jamika Hindsman, followed by an inside move from senior Brandi Catia gave the Lakers a 14-point advantage, 60-46.

With the score 62-48, Clayton State pushed its lead to 21 points with seven unanswered points that were aided a two Newberry technical fouls. Junior Shelcey Harp drained all four free throws from the technical fouls, followed by Hindsman converting a three-point play on the Lakers ensuing possession. The Lakers led 69-48 with 7:14 remaining.

Clayton State’s Cynthia Conseil capped the 28-7 run at the 3:13 mark, giving the Lakers a 27-point advantage, 75-48.

“We never thought it would be easy,” said Hindsman. “When you get this far, all the teams are good. They are good. We just had a nice run there in the second half.”

The Lakers led from the opening tip and pushed their lead to 11 points, 14-3, early with a basket by Catia at the 16:30 mark. Clayton State took its quick lead thanks to a trio of three-pointers by sophomore Basia Bukowska in the first five minutes of the contest.

Newberry answered at the 10:42 on a basket by leading scorer Carnicha Bellinger cut the Laker lead to four points, 20-16. Clayton State responded over the final minutes of the half and pushed its lead to 13 points, 42-29, at intermission on a basket by senior April Taylor.

For Clayton State, Harp finished with a game high 19 points, hitting 6-of-11 from the field and 6-of-6 from the free throw line. Hindsman added 15 points to go along with 10 rebounds, three assists and five steals. Catia sparked the Lakers off the bench with 11 points and five boards.

Bellinger and Ashlee Wright led Newberry with 10 points apiece.

Clayton State shot 46 percent (29-of-63) from the floor, while Newberry hit 39 percent (19-of-49). Clayton State out rebounded the Indians 39-31 and won the battle on the offensive boards 14-9. The Lakers forced 21 turnovers compared to committing only 16.

Clayton State women to face Newberry 
in NCAA South Atlantic Regional Friday 

Morrow, GA --- March 7, 2005 --- By winning the 2005 Peach Belt Conference Tournament, the Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team received an automatic bid to the 64-team NCAA Division II national tournament and late Sunday evening, the Lakers learned their opponent and seed. 

Clayton State will enter its South Atlantic Regional as the No. 2 seed and face Newberry College, the seventh seed out of the South Atlantic Conference. Tip-off for Friday’s game will be 3 p.m. at Shaw University in Raleigh, NC, the top seed and host for the 2005 South Atlantic Regional. 

If the Lakers win on Friday, they will advance to the play the winner of the game between Carson-Newman, the No. 3 seed, and Fayetteville State, the No. 6 seed. 

Newberry will enter the game with an 18-11 record and is coming off a 67-53 loss to the Wingate, the conference’s top seed, in the SAC semifinals. The Indians advanced to the semifinal game against Wingate with an upset win over Catwaba 73-59 last Wednesday. 

The Indians have been led this season by freshman sensations Carnicha Bellinger and Tonique Frasier. Bellinger, a 5-10 guard, leads the team, averaging 16 points per game, while Frasier, a 6-0 forward, is the team’s second leading scorer and top rebounder at 11 points and eight rebounds per contest. 

Bellinger, who has led the team in scoring 19 times this season, had 17 points and 10 rebounds against Wingate on Friday, while Frasier poured in 21 points last week in its win over Catawba to go along with Bellinger’s 13 rebounds. 

Newberry has had some success this season against several Peach Belt Conference teams, defeating USC Aiken, Lander, USC Upstate and Kennesaw State. All four of the wins were by seven points or less. The only loss the Indians had against a PBC team came at the hands of Columbus State 82-74. 

Clayton State faced Newberry once in women’s basketball with that game coming last year. The Lakers defeated the Indians 77-42. Carlie Anderson led the way for the Lakers with 22 points in the game. 

Clayton State is riding a school record 10-game winning streak and is coming off a thrilling 83-76 overtime victory over Columbus State in the finals of the Peach Belt Conference Tournament. 

 Junior Jasmine Patterson was the hero, pouring in a career and school record 35 points in the game, garnering the Most Valuable Player award for the tournament. Patterson hit big shot after big shot down the stretch and came just two points shy of tying the single game PBC Tournament record for points in a game of 37 set by Columbus’ Que Gilliam in 1997. 

Of Patterson’s 35 points, 26 of them came after halftime when the Lakers trailed 37-33 at the break. All-Tournament player Jamika Hindsman finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and five steals, while Shelcey Harp had 15 points, eight boards, three assists and three steals. 

Clayton State’s appearance in the NCAA Division II National Tournament will be a first since the program has been competing at the Division II level since 1997-98.

 Clayton State wins 2005 PBC Tournament Championship in overtime thriller 83-76 

Clayton State’s Patterson pours in 35 points; named PBC Tournament MVP 

Augusta, GA --- March 6, 2005 --- After capturing its first Peach Belt Conference regular season crown, the Clayton State women’s team added another title to its trophy case Sunday, capturing the 2005 PBC Tournament Championship with a trilling 83-76 overtime victory at Christenberry Fieldhouse. 

“I am so proud of our kids,” said head coach Dennis Cox. “We knew we would have to battle to win. “Jasmine (Patterson) had an unbelievable game, and another factor was our ability to rebound on the offensive glass. I thought our kids did a really good job of that.” 

Junior Jasmine Patterson was the hero, pouring in a career and school record 35 points in the game, garnering the Most Valuable Player award for the tournament. Patterson hit big shot after big shot down the stretch and came just two points shy of tying the single game PBC Tournament record for points in a game of 37 set by Columbus’ Que Gilliam in 1997. 

“I was confident coming into this game and tried to get my teammates confident as well,” said Patterson. Without the help of them finding me open and getting me good looks, I wouldn’t have been capable of this.” 

Her biggest threes of the game came in the clutch and when the Lakers needed them the most. With the Lakers trailing 66-62 and only 1:50 remaining in regulation, Patterson drained a three-pointer, cutting the Columbus State lead to a single point, 66-65. 

After a Columbus basket by Tabasha Taylor extended the lead for Columbus to 68-65 with 1:13 remaining, Patterson drained another three-pointer from the baseline with 51 seconds remaining to knot the score at 68 apiece, the third tie of the contest. 

A Clayton State steal by Jamika Hindsman on Columbus’ next possession, setup a final shot for the Lakers but a jumper by Patterson bounded off the back rim. 

In the overtime period, Clayton State outscored Columbus 8-2 in just a little over three minutes taking a six-point advantage on a basket by Brandi Catia. 

A three-pointer by Columbus’ Noelle Griffin cut the deficit to three points with 1:23 remaining, but the Lakers won the game at the free throw line in the final 30 seconds, draining 5-of-6 attempts form the stripe. Shelcey Harp and Shanakie Ward both hit pressure free throws in the final seconds. 

It’s a wonderful feeling,” said Jamika Hindsman, who was also named to the All-Tournament team. “We stayed together, we had good chemistry, we all played together. It’s a dream that I want to never end.” 

With the win, the Lakers improve to 24-6 on the season and receive the automatic bid from the Peach Belt Conference to the 64-team NCAA Division II National Championships. The NCAA South Atlantic Regional Tournament will be played Friday through Monday of next week at site to be determined. The win extends the Clayton State winning streak to a school record 10 on the season. 

Of Patterson’s 35 points, 26 of them came after halftime when the Lakers trailed 37-33 at the break. Hindsman finished with 18 points, 10 rebounds, five assists and five steals, while Harp had 15 points, eight boards, three assists and three steals. Catia also chipped in nine points along with six rebounds. 

For Columbus, Taylor finished with 23 points and six rebounds, followed by Griffin with 16 points. CSU leading scorer Lucia Heston was held to 13 points, while Cherwonna Walker, the team’s leading rebounder, and one of the top rebounders in the PBC, was held to only five boards. 

Clayton State shot only 34 percent (25-of-73) from the floor, compared to a whopping 49 percent (31-of-63) for Columbus State. The Lakers won the game with their work on the offensive boards, outrebounding the Cougars 23-12 on the offensive end, leading to 10 more shots. 

###CCSU###

Clayton State advances to first PBC Tourney

Championship with 74-68 win over Lander

Peach Belt Conference title game to be televised live on Comcast Sports Southeast Sun.

Augusta, GA --- March 5, 2005 --- The Clayton College & State University women’s team made history, winning the 2004-05 Peach Belt Conference regular season Championship, and now the squad will have a chance to add another page to the history book.

Clayton State advanced for the first time to Peach Belt Conference Tournament Championships by defeating Lander University 74-68 Saturday in the semifinals of the 2005 tournament.

“We are relieved,” said head coach Dennis Cox. “They did a good job of keeping us off balance, they switched their defenses up, going back and forth between the man and the zone. We were real fortunate.”

Clayton State will take on the winner of the other semifinal contest between Kennesaw State University and Columbus State University. The tournament championship game will be played at 2 p.m. at Augusta State’s Christenberry Fieldhouse. The game will be televised live on Comcast Sports Southeast.

With the win, the Lakers improve to 23-6 on the season and extend their winning streak to nine on the season. Lander, last year’s Peach Belt Conference champion, ends its season with a 14-15 record.

Trailing by a point with 4:43 remaining, the Lakers closed out the first half on an 8-0 run and took a 30-23 lead into intermission. Junior Shelcey Harp drained two three-pointers in the run.

“We usually have a stretch every game where we defend really well and are able to push out some kind lead,” said Cox. “We defend real hard for 40 minutes and hope that we get that stretch where we able to make some shots and get a lead.”

In the second half, the Lakers pushed their lead to as many as nine points early in the period with a basket by senior April Taylor only to have the Bearcats climb back into the game.

Lander’s Jacquay White cut the Laker lead to a single-point, 34-33, at the 15:30 mark. Clayton State answered and pushed its lead back out to six points, 44-38, with a three-pointer by senior Kaleena Coleman at the 12:50 mark.

Both teams swapped baskets for the next eight minutes before Clayton State went on a pivotal mini-run. Leading 59-55 with 3:26 to play, the Lakers burst out to a nine-point lead, 65-56, in just over a minute of play. A layup by senior Brandi Catia and two free throws by Hindsman gave the Lakers a nine-point advantage, 65-56 with 1:46 to play.

Senior Shanakie Ward, junior Jasmine Patterson and Hindsman combined to hit 10-of-12 free throws in the final minute to seal the victory.

“I kinda figured they were going to come hard…when you are playing to advance to a championship game, everyone is suppose to step and play its best,” said Hindsman.

Hindsman, who scored a career high 28 points in the tournament opener, finished with a game high 20 points. She also finished with eight rebounds, five assists and four steals. Harp added 16 points and Patterson chipped in 11 points. Catia also grabbed eight boards for the Lakers.

For Lander, Tracy Jacobs finished with 17 points, followed by Jacquay White and Keunna Thomas with 13 points. White also finished with a game-high 12 rebounds.

The Lakers shot 39 percent (24-of-62) from the floor, compared to 43 percent (23-of-53) for Lander. Clayton State was outrebounded 40-38 but did pick up two more offensive rebounds than the Bearcats and committed only 12 turnovers compared to 18 for Lander.

Clayton State converted at the free throw line, hitting 19-of-27 for 70 percent, while Lander hit 19-of-32 for 59 percent.

##CCSU##

PBC champs Clayton State open conference

tournament Friday with 89-72 win over UNF

Augusta , GA --- March 3, 2005 --- The 2004-05 Peach Belt Conference Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team took its first step toward a PBC Tournament title on Thursday, winning in impressive fashion, pounding the University of North Florida 89-72.

Clayton State was led by the trio of senior Jamika Hindsman, senior April Taylor and junior Shelcey Harp, combining for 64 points. Hindsman finished with a career high 28 points, including 20 points in the first half, while Taylor and Hindsman each chipped in 18 points apiece for the game.

The Lakers put on a 3-point shooting exhibition in the game, hitting 12-of-23 from behind the three-point arc. The 12 made three-pointers set a new PBC Tournament record, breaking the previous mark of 11 set by Francis Marion University in 2000 tournament.

Clayton State used a 19-4 run to break open a close game in the first half. The Lakers led 29-23 with 7:15 remaining to play before halftime when the 19-4 run took place. Sophomore Basia Bukowska capped the run with a three-pointer with 1:17 remaining in the half and Hindsman put an exclamation point on the half with another three-pointer at the halftime buzzer.

“We have great chemistry on our basketball team. North Florida is a real good defensive team, and Coach (Mary) Tappmeyer does a good job. “In the two previous meeting, we didn’t feel like we had done what we are capable of doing.”

Said Senior April Taylor, “We really attacked North Florida . Our press was effective, and we really shot the ball well.”

In the second half, Clayton State pushed its lead to as many as 30 points on a three-pointer by Shelcey Harp, one of her six of the game. The three-pointer gave the Lakers a 64-34 lead with 15 minutes remaining. The Lakers led by at least 20 points for the entire second half until UNF cut into the deficit in the final two minutes. 

“I thought it would be a closer game,” said Hindsman. “We knew we had to come in and play strong.”

With the win, the Lakers improve to 22-6 on the season and will advance to the PBC semifinals on Saturday, facing Lander University, the sixth seed from the North Division. The Bearcats advanced with victories in the first round over GC&SU 72-59 and in the quarterfinals Thursday with a 71-62 win over the University of South Carolina Aiken. 

North Florida’s season came to an end with a 13-16 record.

Hindsman’s 28 points came on 10-of-15 shooting, while Harp hit 6-of-10 from the field, including 6-of-8 from three-point territory. Taylor converted on 7-of-8 shots and hit 4-of-4 from the free throw line.

For North Florida, the Ospreys had four players in double-digits with Jamal Mitchell leading the way with 14 points. Karli Knudsen added 12 points, followed by Tamara Hubbard with 11 points and Brittney Davis with 10 points.

Clayton State shot 53 percent (31-of-59) from the floor, while North Florida shot 45 percent (25-of-56). The Lakers outrebounded North Florida 89-72, including 18-12 on the offensive boards. Clayton State finished the game with 20 turnovers, while North Florida had 19.

Clayton State women win Peach Belt Conference Championship with 74-63 win over GC&SU 

Morrow, GA --- February 26, 2005 ---The Clayton College & State University women's basketball team put the finishing touches on its first Peach Belt Conference Championship Saturday, defeating GC&SU 74-63 at the Athletics & Fitness Center.  

The Lakers closed the regular season with a school best 21-6 overall record and a 13-3 mark in league. The 21 wins are two wins better than the previous best of 19 wins in the 1994-95 season. The 13 Peach Belt wins are three greater than the previous best of 10 in the 2001-02 season.  

The Peach Belt title gives the Lakers the No. 1 seed entering next week's Peach Belt tournament at Augusta State University, and the squad will return to action on Thursday  at 3 p.m. in Augusta, GA. GC&SU drops to 18-9 overall and 9-7 in the league.  

Clayton State took control of the contest in the final 10 minutes of the second half Wednesday. The Lakers took an 11-point 53-42 lead at the 9:06 mark on a three-pointer by senior Kaleena Coleman. The Lakers maintained its lead over the next three minutes with senior April Taylor, giving the squad a 61-48 lead with 6:15 remaining.  

GC&SU went on a 6-0 run over the next minute and cut the deficit to seven points, 61-54, on a two free throws by Lindsey Smith at the 5:20 mark. After each team swapped baskets in the next two minutes the Lakers pushed their lead to 11 points on a three-pointer by junior Jasmine Patterson.  

GC&SU cut the lead to single digits in the final 45 seconds on a layup by Kiristi Jones but Clayton State came back with two free throws to seal the victory. Clayton State senior Jamika Hindsman did the honors, giving Clayton State its 11-point win margin. 

Neither team led by more five points in the first half with Clayton State taking a 10-5 lead at the 13:19 mark on a jumper by Taylor. GC&SU answered with a 9-0 run and took 14-10 lead at the 11:02 mark on a basket by LeWanna Leon.  

The lead swapped hand three times over the final 11 minutes with Clayton State taking a two-point advantage, 29-27 on a free throw with 44 seconds remaining in the half. The Lakers held the two-point lead at intermission.  

Taylor and junior Shelcey Harp led the Lakers with 13 points apiece, followed by senior Shanakie Ward with 10 points. Ward opened the game with the team's first eight points. Harp and Taylor also led the team in rebounding with nine boards each.  

For GC&SU, Cassie Miliner and Jones each scored 11 points. Alicia Porter led the Bobcats with 11 rebounds.  

Clayton State shot 38 percent from the floor (26-of-68), while holding GC&SU to only 31 percent (20-of-65) from the field. Clayton State shot 41 percent (9-of-22) from 3-point territory, while Bobcats hit only 24 percent (4-of-17).  

Clayton State women cruise past rival Kennesaw
85-71; reclaim top spot in  Peach Belt Conference 

Morrow, GA – February 23, 2005 – The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team took care of business Wednesday night, defeating Kennesaw State University and thanks to some help from a fellow Peach Belt Conference team, the Lakers are one win away from their first-ever Peach Belt Conference Championship.  

An 85-71 Clayton State win over Kennesaw State coupled with a GC&SU win over Columbus State University vaulted the Lakers back into first place in the Peach Belt Conference with one game remaining. The Lakers, who captured at least a share of the PBC championship on Wednesday, will have a chance to capture it outright on Saturday, hosting GC&SU for senior day in a 5:30 p.m. contest. 

The win was a historic one for the Lakers, as the club improves to 20-6 on the season, the first time the program has captured 20 wins in a season. Clayton State improved to 12-3 in the PBC also a school best. Kennesaw drops to 15-11 overall and 7-8 in the league.  

Clayton State jumped out to an early lead, taking control midway through the first half. The Lakers took a double-digit lead of 11 points, 24-13, at the 9:30 mark on a three-pointer by junior Carlie Anderson. The Lakers extended its lead to 15 points in the final minute of the second half on three-pointer by junior Shelcey Harp. After an exchange of free throws, Clayton State went into halftime with a 44-29 lead.  

In the second half, the Lakers maintained a double-digit lead for the full 20 minutes. Clayton State led by 19 points, 63-44, with 12:14 remaining on a jumper by junior Jasmine Patterson. Kennesaw State answered with an 18-6 run during a six-minute stretch, cutting the Laker lead to 11 points with 6:26 remaining.  

Clayton State came back with a run of its own however over the next two minutes to seal the game. A three-point play by senior Jamika Hindsman capped a 10-4 run, giving the Lakers an 81-64 lead with 4:17 remaining. Clayton State led by at least 12 points for the remainder of the contest.  

The Lakers finished with five players in double digits, led by Harp with 19 points and five rebounds. Junior Jasmine Patterson added 18 points and nine boards, followed by seniors Brandi Catia and April Taylor with 16 points apiece. Hindsman chipped in 11 points.  

For Kennesaw State, Dominik Mieszkowska finished with 27 points, followed by Shavonder Clarke with 20 points and 15 boards. Stephanie Scearce added 10 points.  

Kennesaw State shot 42 percent (22-of-52) from the field compared to 39 percent (28-of-72) for the Lakers, but the Clayton State defense forced the Owls into 25 turnovers compared to committing only 15. Clayton State also won the battle on the boards 45-38 and grabbed 24 offensive boards compared to only 15 for Kennesaw.

Clayton State edges Augusta State 69-65; matches
school best with 19th win of season  

Augusta, GA --- February 19, 2005 --- The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball tied a school record for wins in a season Saturday and secured a first round bye in the Peach Belt Conference Tournament, defeating Augusta State University 69-65 at Christenberry Fieldhouse in Augusta, GA. 

The win improves the Lakers to 19-6 overall and 11-4 in the Peach Belt. The win total ties a school record for victories in a season, and the 11 Peach Belt wins breaks a school record for PBC wins in a season. 

Clayton State, atop the Peach Belt standings for the first time in school history, secured a first round bye in the PBC Tournament with the win, as the two tops teams from the PBC South Division of the league receive first round byes in the upcoming conference tournament. 

The Lakers trailed by as many as 13 points in the second half with the Jaguars taking a 51-38 advantage with 14:53 remaining on a basket by Latoya Renwrick. 

The Lakers answered immediately with a furious comeback. A lay-in by senior Brandi Catia, followed by a three-pointer by Basia Bukowska cut the deficit to eight points with 14:19 remaining. Clayton State continued on a 16-4 run, capped at the 8:03 mark on a steal and layup by senior Jamika Hindsman, giving the Lakers a 56-55 lead with 8:03 remaining. 

The lead swapped hands four times over the next five minutes with the Lakers taking the lead at the 2:12 mark on a three-pointer by junior Shelcey Harp, giving the Lakers a 65-63 lead. After an Augusta turnover, the Lakers struck again with another three-pointer, this time Catia did the damage, extending the CCSU lead to five points, 68-63, with 1:10 remaining. 

ASU’s Eva Vodrazkova cut the deficit to three points with a layup with 45 seconds remaining and was fouled on the play but was unable to convert the free throw. After a Clayton State turnover and a missed shot by Augusta, junior Jasmine Patterson sealed the victory for Clayton State with a free throw. 

The Lakers will return to action on Wednesday, hosting metro-Atlanta rival Kennesaw State University in a 5:30 p.m. contest. Augusta State dropped to 12-13 on the year and 6-8 in the Peach Belt. 

Patterson finished with a game high 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting and 4-of-9 from three-point range. Senior Kaleena Coleman finished with a career high 12 points, followed by senior Shelcey Harp with 10 points. 

For Augusta State, Latoya Kendrick led the way with 18 points and 12 rebounds, hitting 8-of-12 from the floor. Brandi Hollingsworth chipped 14 points, including four three-pointers in the first half.   

Clayton State shot 41 percent (26-of-63) from the floor, while ASU shot a sizzling 51 percent (24-of-47), including 69 percent (9-of-13) from three-point territory. The Lakers made up the difference thanks to its defense creating 25 turnovers and beating the Jaguars on the offensive boards 14-8. Clayton State held a 35-34 overall rebounding edge in the contest. 

Clayton State women rally to beat North Florida 
51-46; to play at Augusta State Sat.  

Morrow, GA — February 16, 2005 – The Clayton College & State University women's basketball team struggled with its shooting touch all night but came through when it counted Wednesday, pulling out a 51-46 Peach Belt Conference victory over the University of North Florida at the Athletics & Fitness Center.  

The win coupled with a Kennesaw State University upset over Columbus State University on Wednesday, and the Lakers are in sole possession of first place in the Peach Belt Conference with three league games remaining.  

After leading 27-24 at halftime, the Ospreys took a 35-32 lead at the 14:07 mark of the second half on a three-pointer by Jackie Beik. UNF led for the next nine minutes until senior Brandi Catia tied the score at 39 with a free throw at the 5:56 mark.  

Following a trade of baskets, Clayton State's Catia capped a 6-0 run to give the Lakers a 47-41 lead with 2:12 remaining. Each team swapped a free throw over the next two minutes before the Ospreys cut the deficit to three points, 48-45, with 14 seconds remaining. 

Clayton State's Ward sealed the win with nine seconds remaining, hitting 2-of-2 free throws.  

With the win, the Clayton State improves to 18-6 on the season and 10-3 in the league. The Ospreys fall to 10-14 on the year and 4-9 in the league. Clayton State will return to action on Saturday, traveling to face Augusta State University in a 7:30 p.m. contest.  

For Clayton State, junior Shelcey Harp led the way with 12 points and nine rebounds, followed by senior Shanakie Ward and senior Brandi Catia with nine points apiece. Catia also pulled eight rebounds and had three blocks.  

North Florida's Jamala Mitchell finished with 10 points to lead the Ospreys, followed by Brittany Davis with eight points. Kim Smith led UNF on the boards with nine rebounds.  

Clayton State shot only 32 percent (17-of-54) from the floor, its second lowest field goal percentage of the season, but was aided by its pressing defense that forced UNF into 31 turnovers. UNF shot 42 percent from the floor, hitting 17-of-41 shots. 

 ###CCSU###

Second half surge propels Clayton State
to 91-73 win on Sat. versus GC&SU 

Milledgeville, GA --- February 12, 2005 --- A Clayton College & State University second half surge propelled the Laker women’s basketball to a Peach Belt Conference road victory Saturday, as the Lakers downed Georgia College & State University 91-73 at the Centennial Center in Milledgeville, GA. 

Clayton State took control of the contest in a seven-minute stretch late in the game, going on a 25-4 run. Junior Jasmine Patterson capped the run at the 6:09 mark, giving the Lakers a 17-point lead 76-59. 

Leading 37-31 at halftime, the Lakers pushed their to double-digits, 47-37, at the 15:44 mark on a jumper by junior Shelcey Harp, two of her team-high 21 points. GC&SU answered, however, over the next three minutes with a 13-4 to cut the deficit to a single point, 51-50, on a three-pointer by the Bobcats’ Kristi Jones, setting up Clayton State’s late surge. 

A three-point play by senior Jamika Hindsman ignited the game-deciding run with a three-point play at the 11:53 mark, giving the Lakers a four-point lead, 54-50. A three-pointer by junior Jasmine Patterson, followed by two free throws from Hindsman gave the Lakers an eight-point, 59-51 lead with 10:57 left. 

The Lakers put the game out of reach with a 13-3 spurt over the next three minutes. A three-pointer by junior Carlie Anderson gave the Lakers a 66-56 lead, followed by two free throws by senior April Taylor, increasing the lead to 12 points. 

Clayton State kept up the pressure and a lay-in by senior Brandi Catia extended the Laker lead to 15 points at the 6:18 mark, followed by Patterson giving the Lakers the 17-point advantage. The Lakers led by double-digits for the remainder of the contest and by a game-high 18 points on Harp’s two free throws in the final 15 seconds. 

With the win, the Lakers improve to 17-6 on the season and 9-3 in the Peach Belt, while GC&SU drops to 14-8 on the year and 5-6 in the league. The Lakers will return home on Wednesday for another Peach Belt Conference contest, hosting the University of North Florida. 

Harp’s team-high 21 points came on 6-of-12 from the field and along with seven rebounds. Patterson chipped in 14 points, while Hindsman chipped in 11 points, including 7-of-9 from the free throw line. She also added six assists and six rebounds. 

GC&SU was led by Jones with 22 points and six rebounds, followed by Amanda Lomax with 12 points, coming on 4-of-5 shooting from three-point territory. 

The Lakers shot 44 percent (27-of-61) from the floor, including a sizzling 57 percent (10-of-18) from 3-point territory. Clayton State also converted at the free throw line, hitting 27-of-34 for 79 percent. 

GC&SU shot 38 percent (22-of-58) from the floor and 50 percent 9-of-18 from three-point land. The Bobcats hit 63 percent from the free throw line, hitting 20-of-32.

Clayton State women pound Kennesaw State 91-63; to play at GC&SU on Saturday 

Kennesaw GA, --- February 9, 2005 --- The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball did something only accomplished twice in school history before Wednesday.  

They beat the Kennesaw State Owl women’s basketball team and did it in convincing fashion. 

Clayton State pounded Kennesaw 91-63 at the KSU’s Spec Landrum Center in Kennesaw. The victory was only the third time in 23 tries over the years the Lakers have defeated the Owls in women’s basketball. 

With the win, Clayton State maintains its hold on second place in the Peach Belt Conference, improving to 16-6 overall and 8-3 in the Peach Belt. Kennesaw State drops to 12-10 overall and 4-7 in the league. The Lakers will return to Peach Belt action on Saturday, traveling to face GC&SU in a 7:30 p.m. contest. 

The Lakers took control midway through the second half, going on a 13-0 run in a three-minute stretch. Junior Shelcey Harp ignited the run at 14:14 mark with a three-pointer, giving Clayton State a 10-point lead, 53-43. A three-point play on the Lakers next possession by senior Brandi Catia pushed the Laker lead to 13 points. 

After another basket by Catia, sophomore Basia Bukowska drained a three-pointer, giving the Lakers an 18-point lead, 61-43, with 12:01 remaining. Junior Cynthia Conseil capped the run with two free throws, giving the Lakers a 20-point advantage. 

Clayton State led by more than 20 points for the final seven minutes of the game. The Lakers led by a slim one-point, 36-35, at halftime. 

Hindsman led the Lakers with 24 points, hitting 12-of-15 shots from the floor. She also had eight rebounds, four assists and three steals in the game. Harp finished with 21 points, hitting 7-of-9 from the floor, to go along with eight rebounds and six steals. 

Senior Shanakie Ward and Catia also chipped in 10 points for the Lakers. 

For Kennesaw State, Shavonder Clarke finished with 16 points, followed by Dominik Mieszokowska with 15 points. Danielle Bates chipped in 10 points.  

Clayton State shot 46 percent (32-of-70) from the floor, including 58 percent (22-of-38) in the second half. Kennesaw State shot 42 percent (22-of-53) from the floor but was held to only 30 percent (7-of-23) in the second half. 

Clayton State controlled the boards, outrebounding the Owls 45-33 and forced KSU into 28 turnovers compared to only 14 for the Lakers.

Clayton State cruises to 83-57 win Saturday at USC Upstate; to play at rival Kennesaw State Wed. 

Spartanburg, SC---February 5, 2005 --- The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team jumped out to an early lead Saturday and never looked back, routing the University of South Carolina Upstate 83-57 at the Hodge Center in Spartanburg, SC. 

The Lakers took a double-digit lead of 11 points, 30-19, at the 5:53 mark on layup by junior Jasmine Patterson. After both teams swapped baskets in the next three minutes, Clayton State closed the half strong and took control of contest on a free throw by junior Shelcey Harp and a three-pointer by junior Carlie Anderson, giving the Lakers a 14-point, 39-25 lead at halftime. 

With the win, the Lakers improve to 15-6 on the season and 7-3 in the Peach Belt, while USC Upstate drops to 11-9 and 4-5 in the league. Clayton State, currently tied for second in the Peach Belt, will return to the floor on Wednesday, traveling to face rival Kennesaw State University. 

In the second half, Upstate cut the deficit to eight points, 39-31, with 17:51 remaining on six straight points to open the period. Clayton State answered, however, with a 13-3 run over the next four minutes and led the by double-digits for the remainder of the contest. 

Patterson drained a three-pointer to cap the run for the Lakers, three of her game high 19 points. Clayton State maintained the pressure and pushed its lead to more than 20 points in the final three minutes. Junior Cynthia Conseil gave the Lakers a 27-point, 83-56, with 59 seconds remaining. 

Behind Patterson’s 19 points, Harp finished with 15 points, followed by senior Jamika Hindsman with 14 points. Senior April Taylor chipped in 11 points. 

Upstate was led by Lele Miles with 15 points and eight rebounds. 

Clayton State shot a 47 percent (33-of-70) from the floor, including a sizzling 52 percent (17-of-33) in the second half. The Lakers held Upstate to 38 percent (17-of-45) from the field and forced 30 turnovers, which led to 25 more shots for the Lakers. 

Columbus State women prevail in battle between
Peach Belt top teams; defeat Clayton State 73-67 Wed. 

Morrow, GA — February 2, 2005– The Clayton College & State University women's basketball team came up on the losing end of a battle between the two top teams in the Peach Belt Conference Wednesday, falling 73-67 to Columbus State University at the Athletics & Fitness Center.  

Columbus State took a 62-60 with 5:45 remaining and held on down the stretch, allowing the Lakers only seven points in the final six minutes. The Cougars pushed their lead to seven points, 69-62, at the 2:53 mark on a jumper by Angelica Graham. Clayton State answered with a bucket from junior Shelcey Harp and then cut the deficit to two points with 1:33 remaining on a three-pointer by senior Shanakie Ward.  

Clayton State had its shot in the final minute but was unable to connect from the field, missing its final eight shots. The Lakers had a chance to tie the score at 69 apiece on a fast break opportunity, but a shot by senior April Taylor rimmed out followed by a put back attempt by junior Jasmine Patterson falling short. The Cougars sealed the victory, hitting 3-of-6 free throws in the final 30 seconds.  

The Lakers kept it close despite shooting only 33 percent (25-of-76) from the floor and 29 percent (12-of-41) in the second half. Clayton State remained within striking distance thanks to its work on the offensive boards grabbing 26 offensive boards and creating 27 Columbus State turnovers.  

Clayton State led 39-37 at halftime and pushed its lead to five points, 42-37, on the opening possession of the second half with a three-pointer by Patterson. Columbus State came right back and retook the lead with an 8-2 run and took a 44-43 advantage on a layup by Noelle Griffin. Neither team led by more than six points until Columbus State took its seven-point advantage late in the contest. 

With the loss, the Lakers fall to 14-6 on the season and 6-3 in the Peach Belt. Columbus State takes over sole possession of first place in the league with the win, improving to 14-6 and 7-2 in the league. Clayton State will return to action on Saturday, traveling to face the University of South Carolina Upstate. Columbus State will host Francis Marion on Saturday.  

Clayton State led most of the first half and took a six-point 23-17, on a basket by Harp with 10:42 remaining. The Lakers led by seven points on a free throw by Harp with 7:59 remaining and by seven late in the period, 37-30, on a three-pointer by Ward.  

Columbus State closed the half strong on a 7-2 and trailed by two at intermission thanks to two free throws from Lucia Heston, a three-pointer by Griffin and a basket by Erin Gibbs.  

Harp led the Lakers with 15 points and seven rebounds, followed by Patterson and Taylor with 10 points apiece.  

Clayton State knocks off USC-Aiken 86-76 to setup matchup against co-Peach Belt leader Columbus State on Wed. 

Morrow, GA — January 31, 2005 – The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team knocked the Peach Belt Conference North Division leader Monday, setting up a match-up Wednesday among the top two teams in the PBC.  

The Lakers (14-5 overall; 6-2 in the conference), downed the University of South Carolina Aiken (14-7; 4-3) 86-76 at the Athletics & Fitness. The win ties Clayton State with PBC South Division foe Columbus State University for the lead in the conference. Clayton State will take on the Cougars in a home contest on Wednesday, seeking to avenge an 88-73 loss at Columbus earlier this year. Tip-off is 5:30 p.m. Wednesday. 

Leading by seven points with 3:37 remaining, the Lakers took control of the contest striking for seven quick points in a 7-1 run in a two-minute stretch. A three-pointer by senior Shanakie Ward, followed by a steal and layup from senior Jamika Hindsman gave the squad a 77-65 lead with 2:49 remaining.  

After a free throw from USCA’s Kasey Mills, senior April Taylor capped the run with an inside basket, giving the Lakers a 13-point, 79-66 lead with 1:37 remaining. Clayton State held onto a double-digit lead until Aiken cut the deficit to eight points on a free throw by Benazura Serbecic in the closing seconds.  

USC Aiken led late in the first half, 30-29 with less than two minutes remaining only to have the Lakers close the half with a 10-2 spurt to take a 39-32 lead at intermission. A basket by Taylor, followed by two straight three-pointers by junior Carlie Anderson in a 25-second span ignited the run. Taylor closed the half with a put back at the buzzer on another three-point attempt by Anderson.  

Hindsman led the attack for Clayton State with 23 points, hitting 6-of-8 from the field and 11-of-12 from the free throw line. Taylor poured in 18 points and to go along with five boards. Junior Jasmine Patterson had 11 points and nine boards.  

For USC-Aiken, Mills finished with a game-high 25 points, followed by Mindy Alle with 14 points. Nola Grant and Benazura Serbecic chipped in 13 and 12 points, respectively.  

Clayton State shot 50 percent (28-of-56) from the floor, its second best percentage from the field this season. The Lakers also capitalized from the free throw line, draining 22-of-26 for 85 percent. USC Aiken shot 44 percent (24-of-55) from the floor and 68 percent from the line, hitting 23-of-34.  

Clayton State women capture impressive Peach Belt road win; clips Armstrong State 69-67  

Savannah, GA---January 26, 2005 --- The Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team picked up an impressive Peach Belt Conference road victory Wednesday, downing Armstrong Atlantic State University 69-67 at Alumni Arena. 

Trailing by three points with 6:20 remaining, the Lakers went on an 11-3 spurt in a three-minute span to take a five-point lead, 64-59, with 3:39 remaining. Sophomore Basia Bukowska capped the run with the basket, her first of the contest, drilling a jumper just inside the free throw line. 

After an Armstrong free throw by Ramona Wright, Bukowska came back with two free throws to give the Lakers a six-point 66-60 lead with 2:39 remaining. The final two minutes became a free throw shooting contest with the Lakers hitting just enough to hold onto the victory. Senior Jamika Hindsman drained 3-of-4 in the final 30 seconds. 

Clayton State led 30-29 at halftime and pushed its lead to five points, 34-29, on a jumper by junior Shelcey Harp at the 17:10 mark. The Lakers maintained their advantage for the next seven minutes and pushed their lead to a game-high seven points, 45-38, on a three-point play by junior Jamika Hindsman. 

Armstrong State answered with an 8-0 run to claim the lead 46-45 with 10:29 remaining on a basket by Jasmine Herron, two of her game high 29 points. Neither team led by more than four points until the Lakers took their five-point advantage with 3:39 remaining. 

With the win, the Lakers improve to 13-5 overall and 5-2 in the Peach Belt, while Armstrong State drops to 14-7 on the season and 4-3 in the league. Clayton State will return home on Saturday against another one of the top teams in the Peach Belt, hosting North Division leader the University of South Carolina Aiken in a 5:30 p.m. game. 

Clayton State led most of the first half and pushed its lead to seven points, 25-18 on a three pointer by Basia Bukowska with 3:16 remaining. The Lakers led 27-22 at halftime. 

For Clayton State Harp finished with 17 points and nine rebounds, hitting 8-of-16 from the floor. Hindsman finished with 14 points and a career high 15 rebounds, while junior Jasmine Patterson chipped 13 points and had seven boards. Junior Carlie Anderson had 10 points, all coming in the first half. 

Behind Herron’s 29 points for Armstrong State, Audosha Kelley finished with 17 points for the Pirates. 

Second half shooting woes lead to 54-46 loss
for Clayton State women at UNC Pembroke Sat. 

Pembroke, NC---January 22, 2005 ---  A second-half scoring drought for the Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team led to a Peach Belt Conference road loss Saturday, as the Lakers fell 54-46 to the University of North Carolina Pembroke. 

The Lakers were held to only three points in a 12-minute stretch. The UNCP defense ranks second in the country in field goal percentage defense, and it showed in the second half, as the club held Clayton State to 21 percent shooting (7-of-34). 

Clayton State led by nine points, 34-25, in the first four minutes of the second half with a layup by senior Shanakie Ward. UNCP stormed back, however, going on a 14-0 run over a nine-minute stretch. The Braves took a 36-34 lead at the 8:38 mark on a three-pointer by Tracey Lightfoot. 

UNCP pushed its lead to five points, 39-34, a minute later at the 7:23 mark on a three-point play by Danielle Richardson. The Braves led for the remainder of the contest and extended their lead to nine points, 49-40, with 1:28 remaining on a free throw by Kristin Vaughn. 

Clayton State came back in the final minute with two three-pointers. Carlie Anderson drained a three-pointer with 38 seconds remaining, followed by Jamika Hindsman, hitting one with 22 seconds remaining to cut the deficit to five points, 51-46. UNCP answered with a basket and hit a free throw in the final 20 seconds to seal the victory. 

With the loss, the Lakers fall to 12-5 overall and 4-2 in the league. UNC Pembroke improves to 10-7 on the season and 2-4 in the league. Clayton State will return to action on Wednesday, traveling to face Armstrong Atlantic State University in Savannah, GA. 

Clayton State led most of the first half and pushed its lead to seven points, 25-18 on a three pointer by Basia Bukowska with 3:16 remaining. The Lakers led 27-22 at halftime. 

Hindsman led the Lakers with 14 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Junior Shelcey Harp finished with nine points, while senior April Taylor had 10 rebounds. 

Danielle Richardson led UNCP with 16 points, followed by Lindsay Bartholf and Vaughn each with 12 points. 

The Lakers shot 27 percent (18-of-68) from the field, while UNCP hit 40 percent (18-of-45). UNCP outrebounded Clayton State 42-40, but the Lakers did have a sizable advantage on the offensive boards 18-9. UNCP had 16 turnovers compared to eight for Clayton State.

 Six-game winning streak for Clayton State
women snapped at Columbus in 88-73 loss 

Columbus, GA---January 19, 2005--- A six-game winning streak for the Clayton College & State University women’s basketball team came to an end Wednesday on the road, as the Lakers fell 88-73 to Peach Belt Conference rival Columbus State University in Columbus, GA. 

After struggling from the field shooting in the first half, the Cougars heated up in the second half and went on a 16-7 run during a five-minute stretch to take control of the game. Columbus State shot a sizzling 67 percent from the field in the second half, hitting 22-of-33 shots. 

Clayton State led by eight points, 41-33, with a three-pointer to open the second half by Shelcey Harp only to have Columbus come back with its run. A three-pointer by Columbus leading scorer Lucia Heston gave the Cougars a 49-48 lead with 14:58 remaining. Heston finished with a game-high 20 points. 

The Lakers retook the lead at the 13:52 mark on a basket by April Taylor, giving the squad a 52-51 lead. Columbus answered over the next five minutes with a 14-5 run to claim an eight-point lead, 68-60, a lead it would not relinquish. 

A three-pointer by Basia Bukowska cut the deficit to four points, 70-66, with 6:44 remaining but that was as close as the Lakers would come. Angelica Graham gave the Cougars a 10-point lead with a layup at the 4:34 mark. The Cougars maintained a double-digit lead for the final three minutes of the contest. 

The loss drops the Clayton State record to 12-4 on the season and to 4-1 in the Peach Belt. Columbus State improves to 12-5 on the year and remains undefeated at 5-0 in the league. The Lakers will return to action on Saturday, traveling to face the University of North Carolina Pembroke in PBC action. 

Clayton State raced out to an early lead in the first half and led the entire stanza. The Lakers led 23-15 with 8:40 remaining the half on a three-pointer by Shanakie Ward. A basket by Harp gave the team a nine-point lead two minutes later. Columbus came back to cut the deficit to five points, 38-33, at halftime with a 15-9 run to close the period. 

Senior Jamika Hindsman led the way with 16 points, followed by Harp with 15 points. April Taylor had 13 points for Lakers, while Jasmine Patterson finished with 10 points and seven boards. 

Behind Heston’s 20 points, the Cougars had four other players in double-digits. Graham and Cherwonna Walker each had 15 points, followed by Tabasha Taylor and Erin Gibbs with 11 points. 

Clayton State finished at 42 percent (29-of-69) from the field, while Columbus shot 48 percent (32-of-67). The Lakers were outrebounded 46-35 in the game and committed 17 turnovers compared to 15 for Columbus State. 

Clayton State women capture sixth straight beating defending Peach Belt champions Lander 74-67 

Morrow, GA---January 15, 2005--- The Clayton College & State University women's basketball team defeated the defending Peach Belt Conference South Division champions on Wednesday and followed that up on Saturday with another impressive victory, beating the defending PBC overall champions Lander University 74-67 at the Athletics & Fitness Center. 

Junior Jasmine Patterson was the hero, finishing with 25 points, coming one three-pointer shy of tying a school record with seven three-pointers in the game. Patterson hit 7-of-8 from three-point land and 9-of-14 from the floor. Clayton State hit 12 three-pointers for the game, the second best single-game performance in school history. The Lakers set a school record earlier this month against Francis Marion University with 15 three-pointers in a game. 

Clayton State led almost the entire second half, taking the lead at the 19:32 mark on Patterson's sixth three-pointer of the game. The Lakers pushed their lead to seven points, 49-42, on a three-pointer by senior Shanakie Ward. Lander answered and cut the lead to four points with four straight free throws by Keunna Thomas. 

The Lakers came right back, however, as junior Shelcey Harp scored five straight points to give Clayton State a nine-point lead, 54-45, with 13:45 remaining. Lander cut the deficit to five points, 56-51, on a basket by Tracy Jacobs but would come no closer in the final 10 minutes of the contest. 

Senior Jamika Hindsman gave the Lakers an 11-point lead, 66-55, with a three- point play. Lander cut the lead to six points, 71-65, with 48 seconds remaining but Clayton State drained a trio of free throws in the final 30 seconds to seal the victory. 

With the win, the Lakers improve to 12-3 overall and 4-0 in the Peach Belt, while Lander drops to 7-7 overall and 2-2 in the league. Clayton State will try to extend a six-game winning on Wednesday in PBC action, traveling to face Columbus State University. Lander will play Wednesday at the University of North Carolina Pembroke. 

Clayton State raced out to a nine-point advantage, 17-8, on a free throw by senior April Taylor. Lander answered with a 9-0 run and tied the score at 17 with 13:40 remaining on a three-pointer by Natasha Hemphill. Clayton State came back to take an eight-point lead on a basket by Taylor with 6:43 remaining only to have the Bearcats close the half strong. Thomas tied the score at 35 with two free throws in the final minute to tie the score at intermission.

Behind Patterson's 25 points and six rebounds, Harp finished with 17 points, four rebounds and two blocks. Senior Brandi Catia had eight rebounds and five assists, while senior April Taylor also had eight rebounds. 

For Lander, Hemphill finished with 19 points, six rebounds and six assists. Jacquay White and Thomas each chipped in 12 points, while Jacobs added 10 points. White also had a team high seven rebounds, while Lashaundra Dubose finished six rebounds to go along with nine points. 

The Lakers shot only 35 percent (26-of-74) from the floor, compared to 48 percent (25-of-52) for the Bearcats. Clayton State overcame the its shooting difficulties thanks to 24 offensive rebounds. Lander also committed 22 turnovers to only 16 for Clayton State.

Clayton State topples Armstrong State 77-63 in Peach Belt action; Harp leads Lakers with 22 

Morrow, GA ---January 12, 2005--- A late 13-2 run was the difference Wednesday as the Clayton College & State University women's basketball team toppled defending Peach Belt Conference South Division champions Armstrong Atlantic State University 77-63 at the Athletics & Fitness Center. 

Leading by three points with 6:03 remaining, senior Kaleena Coleman ignited the run with a three-pointer, giving the Lakers a six-point lead, 62-56, with 4:56 remaining. After two free throws from Coleman, junior Shelcey Harp gave the Lakers their first double-digit lead of the contest at the 3:44 mark, 66-56. 

Junior Basia Bukowska extended the Laker lead to 13 points, 69-56, with another three-pointer with 3:11 remaining. AASU's Ramona Wright answered with a basket to cut the deficit to 11 points only to have Bukowska answer with a three-pointer 15 seconds later, giving the Lakers a 14-point lead, with 2:16 remaining. 

Clayton State hit 5-of-6 free throws down the stretch to seal the victory, as the Lakers led by double-digits for the final two minutes of the game. 

With the win, the Lakers improve to 11-3 on the season and 3-0 in the Peach Belt. Both the overall and conference are program bests for the Lakers. Armstrong State, the preseason favorite to win the Peach Belt, drops to 12-5 overall and 2-1 in the league. 

In the first half, Armstrong State raced out to a seven-point lead, 25-18, in the later stages of the first half thanks to a 7-0 run. Two free throws by Alicia Durham gave the Pirates a 25-18 lead with 7:30 remaining. 

Clayton State came back with a 7-0 run of its own to close the period with Harp tying the score at 27 apiece and then draining a three-pointer a minute later to give the team a 30-27 advantage. AASU's Jasmine Herron hit a free throw with 47 seconds remaining as AASU trailed by two points, 30-28 at halftime. 

Harp led the Lakers with 22 points and nine rebounds, followed by senior Jamika Hindsman with 14 points, 11 rebounds and eight assists. Bukowska chipped in 10 points. 

Armstrong State's Audosha Kelley, the leading scorer in the Peach Belt, led the Pirates with 19 points, followed by Lavonne Thomas and Ramona Wright each scoring 14 points apiece.

Clayton State shot 41 percent (29-of-71) for the game, including 49 percent (16-of-33) in the second half. Armstrong shot 36 percent from the floor (24-of-66). Clayton State outrebounded AASU 49-41 and had 22 offensive boards compared to 17 for the Lakers. 

###CCSU###

CCSU women drain school record 15 three-pointers to clobber FMU; Anderson sets single record with eight treys  

Morrow, GA — January 8, 2005 – A storm of three-pointers by the Clayton College & State University women's basketball team rained in the Athletics & Fitness Center on Saturday, wiping out the Francis Marion University women's basketball team 95-48 in the Peach Belt Conference home opener for the Laker. 

Clayton State drained a single game record 15 three-pointers and was led by junior Carlie Anderson with 24 points, including a new single game record eight three-pointers. Anderson hit 8-of-11 from behind the 3-point arc.  The previous team record for three-pointers was 10 in 2001 against Lander and the previous single game individual record was seven by Jo Kimbrel in 2002.  

The Lakers exploded early putting the game out of reach in the first 10 minutes. Senior April Taylor gave the Lakers a 10- point lead, 14-4, three minutes into the contest. Anderson gave Clayton State a 22-point lead, 34-12, with 8:25 remaining on her fourth three-pointer of the half.  

A free throw by senior Kaleena Coleman gave the Lakers a 30-point lead 47-17 with 2:31 remaining. Senior Cynthia Conseil extended the Laker advantage to 32 points, 53-21 with a basket at the first half buzzer. The 53 points was only four points shy from a single game record for points in a half.  

With the win, the Lakers improve to a 10-3 record, the first time the women's program has been 10-3 in the 14 years of the program. Clayton State improves to 2-0 on the season in the Peach Belt and snaps a four-game winning streak by the Patriots. Francis Marion drops to 6-6 on the season and 1-1 in the league. The Patriots will return to action on Wednesday at the University of South Carolina Upstate. 

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