Livingston, Ala. — The Delta State University women’s basketball team earned a 74-71 victory Saturday at West Alabama, wrapping up a hard-fought Gulf South Conference road game at Pruitt Hall.
The Lady Statesmen opened strong, shooting 66.7% from the field and 80% from three-point range in the first quarter. They built a 26-12 lead after the opening 10 minutes and extended their advantage to as many as 14 points early in the game.
Despite a second-quarter rally from West Alabama that cut the gap to 34-29 by halftime, Delta State maintained control for much of the first half. The Tigers surged again in the third quarter and briefly took the lead, but Delta State responded with key baskets and defensive stops to lead 55-49 entering the final period.
The Tigers pressed in the fourth quarter, but Delta State held firm. The Lady Statesmen secured the win, which improved their overall record to 12-9 and 10-6 in conference play. Jariyah Williamson led Delta State with 22 points, while Dakiya Toney added 16. JNyria Kelly contributed six points and crucial rebounds. Olivia Allen scored eight, Alyse Holliman finished with seven, and Madi Kate Vuncannon added seven more points. The team also tallied 22 bench points.
Delta State shot 46.4% from the field, made 17 of 22 free throws, and forced turnovers that led to transition opportunities, including 12 fast-break points. The Lady Statesmen led for more than 37 minutes of the game, demonstrating their control throughout.
The team will next play on the road Tuesday against Union University in Jackson, continuing Gulf South Conference action.
