LIVINGSTON, Ala. - The West Alabama women's basketball team secured a thrilling 73-70 victory over Auburn Montgomery (AUM) on Thursday evening at Pruitt Hall.  

AUM (5-8, 3-5 GSC) held a narrow lead entering the fourth quarter, but West Alabama (2-11, 2-7 GSC) stormed back with a 24-point final frame to seal the win. The Tigers showcased resilience, overcoming 13 lead changes and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities to outpace the Warhawks. 

"Tonight, we came out with high energy and batled through adversity late in the fourth quarter," said head coach Tiffany Morton.

Kendall Lacoste delivered a standout performance, leading all scorers with a career-high 33 points on 12-of-21 shooting, including 5-of-10 from three-point range. She was a perfect 4-of-4 from the free-throw line and added one rebound, one assist, and a steal in her 40 minutes of play. Shayla Golden added nine points and seven rebounds off the bench, while Kaedre Denson contributed six points, eight rebounds, and five assists in a well-rounded effort.  

"Kendall shot the ball extremely well," coach Morton continued. "She has put in the work and I love seeing it pay off! Jada (Colley) came off the bench and gave us some great minutes. Kaedre (Denson) made some amazing passes and crashed the offensive glass to get second chance opportunities for us late!"

AUM was paced by Allasha Dudley, who scored 19 points and dished out six assists. Danielle Luckey recorded a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, while Trinity Hambright grabbed 10 boards and added six points.  

West Alabama shot 42.9% from the field and 40.0% from beyond the arc, edging out AUM's 40.6% shooting. The Tigers dominated the fast break with 24 points and received strong contributions from their bench, which added 24 points.  

"This was a great team win at home," Morton exclaimed. "Go Tigers!"

West Alabama will look to build on this momentum when they host Montevallo on Saturday, January 11, at 2 p.m. in Pruitt Hall.