COLUMBIA, S.C. - The Clinton College women's basketball team cruised to a 71-52 win over NAIA foe Columbia International Univ. on the road Thursday night.

The Golden Bears now improve to 8-1 on the season. Clinton next returns to action in Florida next week when they take on NAIA opponents, Aquinas and St. Thomas at the Cruzin' Classic in Miami Gardens and Fort Lauderdale, FL on Dec. 17-18.

Clinton led 16-13 after the first quarter and 30-23 at the break against the Lady Rams in a rematch of their first meeting in November when Clinton knocked off CIU by 13 in their home opener.

Clinton then found their offense in the third quarter putting up 22 points to outscore the Rams by 9 and lead 52-36 going into the fourth. CIU could then get no closer than 16 points in the fourth with CC winning it 19-16 to secure their 8th win. CC shot 43 percent overall and held CIU to only two threes (14%) and only 21 made baskets in total while forcing 24 turnovers.

The Lady Bears were led by three women in double-figures including 13 points from senior center Diamond Moore-Heath and a double-double from senior forward Kourtney English. English recorded 10 points and 12 rebounds with 2 assists, 2 blocks and a steal while junior guard Jabrica Leslie also added 11 points and 3 steals off the bench.

Fellow junior guards Akiyonna Joiner and Tameah Gaddis combined for 17 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 steals off the bench as well. Junior guard Jala Hutchins also led the team with 4 assists along with 5 points and a steal while fellow junior guard Shabrica Leslie posted 8 points, 4 boards, and two dimes. Senior guard Kayla Pope recorded 4 points, 6 rebounds, and a steal as well.

The Clnton women defeated Paine College on the road last Friday as well 65-51 as the Bears have now won three straight games.