COLUMBUS, Ga. – The University of West Alabama women's basketball team opened its 2026-27 season Monday evening, falling 71-61 on the road to No. 23 Columbus State at the Lumpkin Center.
The Tigers (0-1) stayed within striking distance throughout the first half, taking a 19-18 lead after the opening quarter before heading into halftime trailing by just one, 35-34. Columbus State (1-0) gained separation in the third quarter, outscoring West Alabama 20-13 to take a 55-47 advantage into the final period.
West Alabama continued to battle in the fourth quarter, putting together a late push to cut the deficit to six points at 67-61 with 2:29 remaining. However, a Columbus State three-pointer shortly after halted the Tigers' momentum as the Cougars closed out the 71-61 victory.
Kamiyha Griffin led the Tigers with 15 points, shooting 7-of-14 from the field while adding six rebounds and two assists. Donee' Frazier followed with 14 points and six rebounds, connecting on five of her six field-goal attempts and going a perfect 4-of-4 at the free-throw line.
Terica Smith provided an efficient contribution off the bench, finishing with 10 points and four rebounds while shooting a perfect 3-of-3 from the field and 4-of-4 at the free-throw line. Amiya Redus added eight points, while Lia Edwards contributed six points.
Shay Hunter led West Alabama with six assists, while Griffin and Frazier shared the team lead with six rebounds apiece. The Tigers received 37 points from their bench and scored 32 points in the paint.
Columbus State was led by Madi Hawk and Aijah Manning, who each finished with 15 points. Manning also recorded a double-double with 10 rebounds, while Jamilah Jackson added 11 points, eight rebounds and five assists.
The Cougars held a 40-32 advantage in points in the paint and scored 27 points off turnovers. West Alabama finished with 13 points off turnovers and 13 second-chance points.
Next Up
West Alabama will now turn its attention to the GSC/SIAC Regional Crossover in Clinton, Mississippi. The Tigers will face Clark Atlanta on Friday, Nov. 13, at 4 p.m., before returning to the court Saturday, Nov. 14, for a 4 p.m. matchup against Hill College.
