COLUMBIA, S.C. — CIU women's basketball opened home play on Wednesday evening but came up short in Appalachian Athletic Conference action, falling 65–54 to Bluefield University at the Moore Fitness Center.

The Rams led after the opening quarter and remained within striking distance at halftime before Bluefield used a strong second-half push to pull away. CIU was outscored 19–13 in the third quarter and 20–13 in the fourth as the visiting Rams created separation late.

Katie Johnson led CIU with 11 points and three assists, while Bryanna Belton provided a spark off the bench with 10 points on 4-of-6 shooting. Lily Dunn and Sadie Burnette each scored nine points, combining to knock down six three-pointers on the night. Jerchel Geathers-Washington added seven points, and Selah George finished with six rebounds and four steals.

CIU forced 20 Bluefield turnovers and converted them into 19 points, but the visitors capitalized at the free-throw line in the final quarter to seal the outcome.

The Rams return to action on Saturday, Jan. 10, traveling to face Union Commonwealth University in Barbourville, Ky., at 2:00 p.m. ET