VALDOSTA, Ga. — West Alabama (2-2, 0-1 GSC) dropped its conference opener at Valdosta State on Thursday, falling 85–68 at The Complex. The Tigers forced 12 steals and made a strong second-half push but couldn't overcome the Blazers' dominant inside presence.

UWA struggled to settle in offensively early, shooting 4-of-15 in the first quarter and trailing 24–11. Haley Nichols and Nailah Mayes provided the early highlights, each knocking down key baskets to keep the Tigers within reach.

Valdosta State extended its lead before halftime, outscoring UWA 24–13 in the second quarter to take a 48–24 advantage. The Tigers responded with their best stretch of the night in the third, erupting for 24 points behind Callie Cowan's defensive spark and transition play. Nichols, Cowan, and Bellah Machen fueled the run as West Alabama cut the deficit to 59–48 entering the fourth.

Machen added a big 3-pointer in the final frame, and Nichols continued to battle inside, but the Blazers' paint production proved too much to overcome down the stretch. West Alabama's comeback effort stalled in the final minutes as VSU closed out the 85–68 decision.

UWA now travels to Pensacola, Fla., to face West Florida on Saturday. Tip off is set for 2 p.m. at the UWF Field House.