LIVINGSTON, Ala. — The University of West Alabama Women's Basketball team secured a 79-62 victory over AUM at Pruitt Hall to clinch a spot in the GSC Tournament. 

West Alabama (13-11, 11-10 GSC) overcame an early eight-point deficit, outscoring the Warhawks (3-24, 3-17 GSC), 28-14 in the second quarter. For the game, UWA held AUM to 35 percent shooting and 24 percent from three, propelling them to their 17-point win. 

The Tigers struggled with turnovers, committing six in the first quarter, which the Warhawks capitalized on with a strong 8-0 scoring advantage off turnovers. Despite Haley Nichols adding a three-pointer and a jumper, West Ala. trailed 17-9 at the end of the first quarter. Flatgard contributed significantly, hitting two three-pointers to help her team maintain a comfortable lead.

West Alabama took control in the second quarter with a strong offensive performance, outscoring the Warhawks, 28-14. Nailah Mayes was instrumental, contributing multiple free throws and layups throughout the quarter. Nichols added to the scoring with a block and a layup, while Bellah Machen supported with key assists. The Warhawks' Shelby McAllister tried to keep AUM afloat, but West Alabama maintained momentum. Ameyah Gray's three-pointer with eight seconds remaining reduced the deficit, but UWA held a 37-31 lead at the end of the quarter.

West Alabama held a narrow lead throughout the third quarter, with the Warhawks keeping pressure on their defense. Flatgard's three-pointer at 8:42 tied the game at 36-36, but the Tigers quickly regained their edge with scoring from Mayes and Nichols. Nichols was instrumental, contributing both defensively and offensively, including a key layup at 4:00 to make it 44-42. UWA closed the quarter strongly, with Machen and Chardai Watkins adding to the score, ultimately leading 56-47 at the end of the period.

West Alabama secured a decisive 79-62 victory over the Warhawks in the final quarter. Nichols was instrumental, scoring consecutive layups at 8:37 and 8:10, off assists from Machen. Machen also contributed with a key three-pointer at the 6:27 mark. The Warhawks' Brooks managed to keep them within striking distance, but West Alabama maintained control throughout the period. Watkins and Mayes added points from the free-throw line to extend the lead, ensuring a confident finish for the home team.

Nichols led West Ala. with 20 points and 11 rebounds, showcasing efficiency by converting 8 of 13 field goal attempts. Machen added 13 points and posted five assists, contributing both offensively and on defense with five rebounds. Mayes recorded 14 points, making all eight of her free throw attempts, while also collecting four rebounds. Callie Cowan contributed 11 points and dished out two assists, maintaining a strong presence on the court.

With a tournament spot already locked up, West Alabama will travel to UAH on Friday for the regular season finale.