LIVINGSTON, Ala. - The West Alabama Tigers (2-13, 2-9 GSC) face a challenging road trip this week with matchups against Valdosta State on Saturday, January 25th, at 2:00 p.m., and West Florida on Monday, January 27th, at 4:00 p.m. Both opponents boast strong records in the Gulf South Conference, promising a tough test for the Tigers.

West Alabama has struggled to find consistency this season, averaging 59.8 points per game while allowing 72.1 points per contest. The Tigers are shooting 36.6% from the field and 28.8% from beyond the arc, with a -12.3 scoring margin. Rebounding has also been a challenge, as they average 36.3 boards per game, compared to 40.3 by their opponents.

The Tigers' offense is led by Kendall Lacoste, who averages 13.5 points and 1.6 rebounds per game. Callie Cowan contributes 8.2 points and 2.3 assists per contest, while Shayla Golden adds 8.8 points and a team-high 5.9 rebounds per game. Defensively, the Tigers average 8.4 steals per game, led by Lacoste and Golden, who have combined for 44 steals this season.

Valdosta State (10-7, 5-6 GSC) awaits the Tigers on Saturday with a balanced and methodical approach. The Blazers average 64.1 points per game while holding opponents to 58.3, boasting a +5.8 scoring margin. They are particularly strong on the defensive glass, averaging 29.6 defensive rebounds per game.

The Blazers are led by Kiersten Nelson, who averages 14.8 points per game, and Aryana Hicks, who adds 11.3 points while Erin Whalen cleans up the glass, averaging a team-high 8.6 rebounds per contest. Valdosta State is solid in the ball control department, committing just 15.8 turnovers per game. If West Alabama can force the Blazers into turnovers, that can be a pathway to success for the Tigers who scores 15.7 points off turnovers per contest. 

The Argonauts (13-4, 9-2 GSC) enter Monday's game on a strong note, averaging 73.1 points per game with a +7.2 scoring margin. West Florida is efficient from the field, shooting 41.1% overall and 32.8% from three-point range while limiting opponents to 39.2% shooting.

Offensively, Rylie Stephens leads the way with 15.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, while Haidyn Pitsch adds 14.2 points and 3.1 assists per game. The Argonauts are also dangerous from beyond the arc, with Pitsch accounting for 48 made three-pointers this season. Defensively, West Florida forces 19.9 turnovers per game, creating opportunities in transition.

To compete on the road, West Alabama will need to:
Protect the ball, the Tigers average 19.7 turnovers per game, and limiting giveaways will be critical against two teams that capitalize on mistakes.
Crash the boards, with a -4.0 rebounding margin, securing defensive rebounds and creating second-chance opportunities on offense will be essential.
Find offensive rhythm, led by Lacoste and Cowan, the Tigers must improve their shooting efficiency and generate consistent scoring to keep pace.

With two tough matchups ahead, the Tigers will aim to execute their game plan and build momentum in the Gulf South Conference.