Dragons Open SIAC Play with a Victory over Claflin

Jackson, Tenn.

Coming off of a big non-conference victory over Henderson State University, the Dragons picked up their first conference victory of the 2015-16 season over the Panthers from Claflin University. The Dragons (2-4 overall, 1-0 SIAC) held on at the end to secure the 56-51 victory.

The Dragons connected on 12 of 29 (41.4%) shots in the first half of play to carry a slim 27-25 lead over the Panthers to halftime. The Dragons went on a 6-2 run early in the second half to extend their lead 33-27.  The Panthers took a 35-33 lead with 12:50 remaining in the contest following an 8-0 run to keep things close. The excitement of the large crowd was brought to life as the Dragons went on a 12-1 run featuring a Kendarius Ash slam that had the fans dancing at J. F. Lane Gymnasium for a 45-36 lead. The Dragons held on as the Panthers finished the last eight minutes of the game with a 15-11 run for a 56-51 victory.

The Dragons connected on 11 of 19 (57.9%) free throws to help lead them to victory. Kendarius Ash led the Dragons, posting 12 points and collecting nine rebounds. Senior Joseph Cooper added nine points for the Dragons. Adolph Caldwell led the Panthers in scoring with 10 points while Austin Lawton collected nine rebounds.

The Dragons host The Tigers from Benedict College on Dec. 5 with a scheduled tip-off of 3:00 PM from J F Lane Gymnasium.