SALISBURY, N.C.- The Lady Blue Bears came up just short in a heartbreaking 43–42 loss to Claflin University on Saturday afternoon inside New Trent Gym. In a game featuring seven ties and six lead changes, the Lady Blue Bears battled from start to finish but were unable to convert on their final possession.

Livingstone grabbed a five‑point lead in the second quarter behind strong work on the boards from Breasia Coit, but Claflin closed the gap and took a 25–23 halftime lead. The Lady Blue Bears answered in the third, getting a boost from Ny'Asia Green and Jasiyah Crawford to reclaim a one‑point advantage heading into the fourth.

Both teams struggled offensively down the stretch, but Claflin made a key late basket that ultimately proved to be the difference. Livingstone, despite pulling down 13 offensive rebounds and winning the rebounding battle 43–33, shot just 3-of-16 in the final period and couldn't get the game‑winner to fall as time expired.

Coit led the way with 13 points and 17 rebounds, while Crawford added 14 points and five assists. Green finished with eight points and six boards. Turnovers were costly for Livingstone, as their 20 giveaways offset a strong defensive effort.

Claflin was paced by Ryian Howard's 11 points and received 25 points from its bench.

The Lady Blue Bears will be back at home on Wednesday, February 18th, hosting Shaw University in a doubleheader. The women will tip off at 5:30 PM, followed by the men at 7:30 PM.