COLUMBIA, S.C. — CIU women's basketball fell 68–45 to Pikeville University on Monday afternoon in Appalachian Athletic Conference play at the Moore Fitness Center.

The Rams remained within striking distance throughout the opening half and held the lead until under a minute remaining in the second quarter, but Pikeville closed the period with a late push and carried momentum into halftime. The visitors outscored CIU in each of the final three quarters to gradually build separation.

Jerchel Geathers-Washington led CIU with 17 points on 7-of-11 shooting and added eight rebounds. Katie Johnson finished with 10 points and five assists, while Selah George scored eight points. Katlynn Chinn contributed six points, four rebounds and four assists.

CIU totaled 35 rebounds and forced 14 turnovers but was limited to 30 points over the final three quarters as Pikeville controlled the game after the break.

The Rams return to action on Wednesday, Feb. 11, hosting Reinhardt University at the Moore Fitness Center at 5:30 p.m. ET.