RALEIGH, N.C. (Nov. 9) – Saint Augustine's University (SAU) pulled away late to triumph over Clarion University 63-51 on the first day of the CIAA/PSAC Women's Basketball Challenge at Rivero Hall in Lincoln University, Pa., on Friday, Nov. 8.

The game was tight through the first three periods, but the Lady Falcons put together a 21-10 run in the fourth period to break the contest open. The Lady Falcons led by one, 42-41, going into the fourth period.

The victory was the second in a season opener in three years for the Lady Falcons, who forced 31 Clarion turnovers and converted them into 26 points. The Lady Falcons shot 36 percent, including 44 percent from three-point land, while holding Clarion to 30 percent.

The SAU women used their depth to claim the win. Eleven Lady Falcons played 11 or more minutes compared to six for Clarion. The Lady Falcons outscored Clarion 21-9 in bench points.

Quiera Gilmore (Jr./Charlotte, NC) paced the Lady Falcons (1-0) with 14 points and added four assists, three steals and three rebounds. Kiana Clark (Sr./Queens, NY) and Kaaliya Williams (Sr./Richmond, VA) each chipped in 10 points.

Ke'Airah Massiah led Clarion (0-1) with 13 points.

The Lady Falcons are back in action Saturday, Nov. 9, against Kutztown University on the final day of the CIAA/PSAC Challenge. Game time is 4 p.m.