VALDOSTA, Ga. – Despite a strong third-quarter surge, the West Alabama women's basketball team came up just short in a 68-63 loss to Valdosta State on Saturday afternoon at The Complex.

The Tigers dropped to 2-14 overall and 2-10 in Gulf South Conference play, while the Blazers improved to 11-7 and 6-6 in the league.

Valdosta State opened the game with a dominant first half, outscoring West Alabama 39-26 behind efficient shooting and a balanced attack. The Tigers struggled from the field early, shooting just 30 percent in the opening quarter and trailing 17-10 after the first.  

West Alabama found its rhythm in the third quarter, outscoring the Blazers 26-14 thanks to an impressive shooting effort of 58.8 percent from the floor. Shayla Golden led the charge with 18 points and 10 rebounds, notching her second double-double of the season. Kendall Lacoste added 16 points, including three three-pointers, while Callie Cowan contributed 12 points and nine rebounds.  

Despite cutting the deficit to one point midway through the fourth quarter, Valdosta State regained control down the stretch. Aryana Hicks led the Blazers with a game-high 19 points and 12 assists, while Kiersten Nelson added 14 points and eight rebounds. Valdosta State's bench was also a major factor, contributing 30 points to West Alabama's two.  

The Tigers struggled from long range, converting just 21.4 percent of their three-point attempts (3-of-14), and shot 63.6 percent from the free-throw line, leaving critical points on the board.  

Despite the loss, West Alabama showed resilience, and their third-quarter rally sets the tone for their upcoming road test as UWA will look to bounce back in its next matchup against West Florida on Monday, January 27, at 4 p.m. in the UWF Field House