Charlotte, N.C.- In the Black College Invitational Championship, the Livingstone College women's basketball team fell to Johnson C. Smith, 77-59, despite a valiant effort. The Lady Blue Bears struggled to contain the Golden Bulls' offensive onslaught, and their own shooting inconsistencies ultimately sealed their fate.

The standout for Livingstone was Morgan Kelson, who played a team-high 36 minutes and led the team in scoring with 20 points. Kelson was efficient, hitting 8-of-14 field goals, but her efforts were marred by her inability to connect from beyond the arc (0-for-1) and the fact that Johnson C. Smith continued to expand their lead. She also contributed 6 rebounds and 4 steals.

Thalia Carter also played a significant role, logging 33 minutes and finishing with 9 points. However, she had a tough shooting night, hitting only 3-of-12 from the field, including 0-for-3 from three-point range. Despite her struggles, Carter chipped in 4 rebounds and 2 steals.

The team's other starters, Ny'Asia Green, Breasia Coit, and Nielle Reaves, had quieter outings. Green managed just 2 points in 18 minutes, shooting 1-for-6 from the floor. Coit added 2 points and 3 rebounds in 12 minutes, while Reaves was scoreless in 14 minutes of play, contributing only 3 rebounds and 3 assists.

Off the bench, Boston Bates was the most effective, scoring 10 points in 23 minutes. Bates went 4-for-6 from the field, but her efforts weren't enough to close the gap. Jasiyah Crawford also provided solid minutes, contributing 7 points and 5 rebounds in 19 minutes, while Damaria Moree added 7 points and 4 rebounds in 18 minutes.

Livingstone is eager to bounce back tomorrow, March 21, as they take on Virginia Union at 12 p.m.