South Carolina State beats Claflin 70-53

ORANGEBURG, S.C. (AP)—Khalif Toombs scored 17 points and Shaquil Barber added 15 as South Carolina State defeated Claflin 70-53 on Friday night in the season opener for both teams.

Toombs, who led all scorers, recorded three assists and five rebounds in the victory. He shot 5 of 8 from the field and made all six of his free throws.

Leading 47-41 in the second half, Shaquil Barber hit two crucial 3-pointers that sent South Carolina State on a 13-6 run to take a 60-47 lead with 3:47 left to play.

Alonzo Gillyard led the way for Claflin, scoring 13 points and grabbing eight rebounds in the process.

Claflin committed 21 turnovers in the loss.