LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The West Alabama women's basketball team (0-4) is set to open Gulf South Conference play with two home matchups this week.
The Tigers will face the Valdosta State Blazers (5-1) on Thursday, December 5th, at 5 p.m., followed by a showdown with the West Florida Argonauts (4-2) on Saturday, December 7th, at 4 p.m. Both games will take place at Pruitt Hall.
West Alabama has faced early-season challenges, averaging 53.8 points per game while shooting 32.6% from the field.
Julia Rodriguez leads the Tigers' offensive efforts, averaging 10.0 points and 3.5 rebounds per game. She's been supported by
Kendall Lacoste, who contributes 9.3 points per game, and
Callie Cowan, averaging 9.0 points while shooting 36.4% from the floor.
Rebounding remains a key area for improvement, as the Tigers average 36.5 boards per game, compared to opponents' 42.5.
Jordan Parker has been the team's most consistent presence on the glass, pulling down 4.5 rebounds per contest. West Alabama's defense will also aim to tighten up, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on opponents' miscues.
Valdosta State enters the matchup with a strong 5-1 record, averaging 76.7 points per game while holding opponents to just 60.3. Kiersten Nelson anchors the Blazers' offense, averaging an impressive 16.8 points and 7.4 rebounds per game on 54% shooting. Erin Whalen provides additional firepower, posting 13.2 points and 9.8 rebounds per contest.
The Blazers excel in ball movement and defense, averaging 14.3 assists and 11.8 steals per game. Their ability to force turnovers (22.3 points off turnovers per game) could pose a significant challenge for the Tigers.
West Florida (4-2) averages 78.2 points per game with a +8.0 scoring margin. They thrive on turnovers, forcing 21.8 per game and converting them into 21.7 points. While efficient from three (33.0%), they've struggled in rebounding (38.3 RPG vs. 41.3 RPG) and field goal shooting (39.6%).
Haidyn Pitsch leads with 17.0 points per game, while Rylie Stephens adds 16.2 points and 6.7 rebounds. Bella Green anchors the defense with 8.3 rebounds per game. The team's 10.8 steals per game showcase their disruptive defense.
West Alabama will need to improve offensive efficiency and limit turnovers, currently averaging 20.5 per game. Defensively, the Tigers must focus on containing Nelson and Whalen while matching the Blazers' intensity on the boards. Against West Florida, versatility and depth will be critical to neutralize their fast-paced style.
Both games will be played at Pruitt Hall in Livingston, Alabama. The Tigers are looking to ignite their season with the support of their home crowd in these pivotal GSC matchups.
