BLUEFIELD, VA — In a thrilling back-and-forth battle at the Dome of Bluefield University, the Clinton College women's hoops team held on for a 61-59 hard-fought victory.

Bluefield got out to a 22-12 lead in the second quarter on the Bears but CC ended the half on a 10-3 run to trail by just three at the break. Clinton then outscored the Rams 22-15 in the third while stretching their lead out to nine points at one time (38-29) midway through the third before taking a 44-40 lead into the fourth. BU would stay within striking distance throughout the quarter getting to within 2 points, but could not get over the hump as the Bears held them off.

Clinton, remains perfect on the season improving to 3-0 and were led by a double double from senior center Diamond Moore-Heath with 17 points and 11 rebounds while wing Jabrica Leslie added 15 points off the bench with 3 boards, 3 assists and 2 steals. 

CC shot nearly 43 percent for the game but struggled from the three point and free throw lines. The Bears held the Lady Rams to only 31 percent overall and just 28 percent from beyond the arc.

Forward Alesha Canady also added 8 rebounds and 2 blocks defensively off the bench while junior guard Tameah Gaddis added 5 points, 4 rebounds and 3 steals. Senior forward Kourtney English also had a solid game scoring 9 points with 5 rebounds.

Clinton will next return home to host UVA-Lynchburg on Saturday at 3:00 pm.