BLUEFIELD, W.Va. (Feb. 20) – The Tigers held off a late rally to pull out a 72-66 win over Bluefield State in non-conference play Saturday afternoon.
 
The Salem International University women's basketball team improves to 4-22 overall, while the Lady Blues fall to 1-22 this season.
 
Senior Samantha Aiken (Hilton Head Island, S.C./Hilton Head) led the Tigers with 18 points, while classmate Dorina Barrett (Detroit, Mich./Pershing) added 12 points and eight rebounds in the win. Junior Karla Hall (Richmond, Calif./Laguna Creek) chipped in 10 points and eight rebounds (five offensive) to round out double-digit scorers.
 
After trailing 37-35 at halftime, the Tigers broke out in the third quarter by outscoring the Blues 22-10 behind nine of Aiken's 18 points to take a 57-47 lead heading into the final frame.
 
Bluefield State slowly chipped away at the Tiger lead and eventually took a 61-59 lead with 3:45 left in the game. Salem International responded with a 10-3 run, capped off by an Aiken three pointer with 2:10 remaining in regulation to take a 69-62 lead. The Blues made a last effort, but Salem International converted enough free throws in the final two minutes to earn their fourth win this season.
 
The Blues were led by Tierra Richberg who finished with a double-double, 30 points and 15 rebounds.
 
Salem International returns to Great Midwest Athletic Conference play and the T. Edward Davis Gymnasium for its final two games of the season, beginning with a battle against Trevecca on Thursday, Feb. 25 around 7 p.m.