ORANGEBURG, SC---Junior forward Damani Applewhite tossed in 20 points and grabbed seven rebounds, while junior guard Lavar Harewood added 14 but it wasn't enough as South Carolina State suffered an tough, 98-73, defeat to visiting Bethune-Cookman Saturday (Feb. 16^th ) at Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center.

South Carolina State celebrated "Senior Day" with three Bulldogs being honored in a pregame ceremony in front of family, friends and loyal supporters. Senior point Janai Raynor-Powell finished with 12 points and four assist before fouling out.

The Bulldogs got off to a slow start after being down 35-46 during intermission.

Bethune-Cookman had four players in double-figures with Malik Maitland leading the way with a game-high 29 points, teammate Cletrell Pope provided the games only double-double with 26 points and 10 rebounds.

Next up South Carolina State host Florida A&M in a pivotal Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) showdown at Smith-Hammond-Middleton Memorial Center Monday (Feb. 18^th). Tip-off is 4:30 pm for the women, following the men with a 7:30 p.m. start.

For more information on South Carolina State Athletics visit www.scsuathletics.com or call the Office of Athletic Media Relations at (803) 536-7060.