Box Score ORANGEBURG, S.C. — Claflin University defeated Johnson C. Smith University 3-1 on Thursday, winning 25-9, 25-8, 21-25, 25-15 in CIAA volleyball action at Tullis Arena.

The Panthers improved to 7-6 overall and 1-1 in CIAA play, while the Golden Bulls fell to 0-4 overall and 0-2 in conference play.

The Panthers took the first set 25-9 before extending their advantage with a 25-8 second-set victory. JCSU responded in the third set, recording 10 kills and hitting .152. The Golden Bulls held off Claflin 25-21 to force a fourth set. The Panthers closed out the match 25-15.

Dacia Lowery and Daila Brown led JCSU with four kills apiece, while Destini Johnson added three. Naveah Baker and Rylea Ross each recorded two service aces, while Brown added one. Marianna Diaz paced the Golden Bulls with 15 assists. Ross led JCSU defensively with 11 digs, followed by D'Asia Cheatham with 10 and Karmah Thomas with seven. Lowery recorded two blocks, while Lauren Joiner and Lapri Cromer each added one.

Zaniya Harris led all players with 16 kills for Claflin. Monica Burns added eight kills and three blocks, while Grayson Graham finished with six kills. Nadia Embry recorded 17 assists and 11 digs, and Abigail Watts added 14 digs.

Johnson C. Smith returns to action Monday, Sept. 28, when the Golden Bulls host Winston-Salem State University at Brayboy Gymnasium.