CHARLOTTE - Johnson C. Smith University women's basketball team fell to Winston-Salem State University, 65-55, in CIAA southern division play on Wednesday evening at Brayboy Gymnasium.

The Golden Bulls (7-16, 4-12 CIAA) battled after a slow start but could not overcome a 13 point first quarter deficit as Winston-Salem State (23-2, 14-1 CIAA) maintained its hold atop the conference standings.

JCSU found its rhythm in the second half, outscoring the Rams 33-25 over the final two quarters. The Golden Bulls cut into the deficit with a 15 point third quarter and added 18 more in the fourth, shooting 53.3 percent in the final period.

La'niya Simes led JCSU with 12 points and a game-high 14 rebounds for her eighth double digit rebounding performance of the season. Tameia Shaw and Salote Franklin each added nine points, while Sabrina Lewis chipped in six points, all coming from beyond the arc.

The Golden Bulls controlled the glass, out rebounding WSSU 38-34, including 14 offensive rebounds that led to nine second chance points. However, 27 turnovers limited Smith's opportunities and allowed the Rams to convert transition chances.

Maia Charles paced the Rams with a game high 25 points on 10-of-13 shooting, adding seven rebounds. Nevaeh Farmer contributed 13 points and six steals as the Rams forced 17 Golden Bulls turnovers.