Image via AAMU sports
Courtesy of Alabama A&M Athletics
MOBILE, Ala. | The Alabama A&M University women’s basketball team used a strong fourth quarter to pull away for a 50-41 Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) victory over rival Alabama State in the Bridge Builder Classic on Monday afternoon at the Mitchell Center.
The Bulldogs (8-9 overall, 4-1 SWAC) held the Hornets to just 36 percent shooting and forced timely stops down the stretch to complete the season sweep of their in-state rival.
Kalia Walker led Alabama A&M with 15 points, two rebounds and two assists, while Jaida Belton finished with 11 points, eight boards, four blocks and two assists. Coriah Beck chipped in eight points and Aniya Palmer added five points.
Alabama A&M jumped out early, holding Alabama State to just eight first-quarter points while taking a 14–8 lead after one. The Bulldogs maintained control for much of the opening half and went into the break with a 24–23 advantage.
The third quarter proved pivotal as Alabama A&M’s defense limited the Hornets to 10 points while forcing multiple turnovers. A late three-pointer by Belton and timely interior scoring helped the Bulldogs take a 35–33 lead into the final period.
In the fourth quarter, Alabama A&M sealed the win by outscoring Alabama State 15–8, using strong free-throw shooting and disciplined defense to pull away. Walker and Belton combined for seven points in the final five minutes, while the Bulldogs held Alabama State without a field goal over the final three minutes.
Alabama A&M finished the game shooting 25 percent from the field but made up for it by converting 16-of-20 free throws, winning the rebounding battle 42–44, and outscoring Alabama State 17–2 off the bench.
Alabama State (5-11, 2-3) was led by Clearia Peterson, who recorded 14 points and 12 rebounds, while Caylee Simpson added 13 points. The Hornets struggled at the free-throw line, converting just 4-of-15 attempts.
UP NEXT
Alabama A&M continues its road swing on Thursday when the Bulldogs visit Prairie View A&M. Tip-off against the Panthers is scheduled for 6 p.m. from the William J. Nicks Building and streamed on SWAC TV.
