Lady Buccaneers Late-Game Rally Falls Short vs. Talladega
Talladega, Alabama, January 6, 2025 – In a tightly contested conference game, the University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) women's basketball team fell short in a 53-43 matchup against the Talladega College Tornadoes. The game took place at the Dr. Billy C Hawkins Student Activity Center, in Talladega, Alabama serving as the final game of the Historically Black Colleges and University (HBCUAC) Crossover. Despite a valiant comeback attempt in the second half, the Lady Buccaneers were unable to overcome the lead established by the Tornadoes midway through the game.
UVI (0-8,0-7 HBCUAC) displayed promise early in the matchup as the two teams battled to end the first quarter tied at 9-9. However, the Tornadoes managed to gain a slight edge by halftime, leading 24-21.
In the third quarter, Talladega attempted to pull away, but the Lady Buccaneers fought back, closing the period trailing by just four points at 36-32. With only eight minutes left in the final period, UVI was down by just one point after a tipped-in basket by sophomore guard Ashukamay'ah Phillips. Despite the momentum swinging in their favor, the Lady Buccaneers' late-game rally fell short as they were unable to take the lead, and the Tornadoes secured the victory by extending their lead in the closing minutes.
Lady Buccaneers Kashay Bass, Jordan Carter, and Phillips each contributed 8 points. Bass was also impressive defensively, achieving a game-high of five steals, while senior guard Mia Davis was a significant presence under the basket, grabbing nine rebounds.
"This was our best game yet," head coach Stephanie Copper stated. "It was a collective effort on both offense and defense. We had 13 steals on the defensive end of the floor, and everyone contributed to the offense. Although missed free throws played a significant role in the outcome of the game, it was a positive way to conclude the Crossover. We have to maintain this level of effort in our upcoming game against Southern University of New Orleans in order to be successful."
The Lady Buccaneers will now shift their focus to preparing to face Southern University at New Orleans on January 11 at the Elridge Blake Sports and Fitness Center. This match will mark the team's first regular-season game on their home court this season. Tip-off is at 1 p.m. AST.
