Preview: Alcorn State Braves at Alabama A&M Bulldogs

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (Interstat) — Two teams trending in opposite directions will meet in a Southwestern Athletic Conference men’s basketball game Saturday when the Alabama A&M Bulldogs host the Alcorn State Braves at T.M. Elmore Gymnasium.

Alabama A&M (8-7) enters conference play with momentum, having won four of its last six games. The Bulldogs are coming off a 71-51 road victory over Mississippi Valley State on Monday, where the defense shined. Bilal Abdur-Rahman, a player to watch for the Bulldogs, contributed nine points and four assists in that win. He has scored in double figures in two of his last five appearances.

Conversely, Alcorn State (1-12) seeks its first win against a Division I opponent this season. The Braves’ lone victory came against Indiana State on Nov. 28. They are riding a six-game losing streak, though they showed offensive life in a narrow 89-86 loss at Jackson State on Jan. 3.

In that game, Alcorn State’ Davian Williams erupted for a season-high 24 points, adding six rebounds and three assists. Williams, the Braves’ key player, will need a similar performance to challenge the Bulldogs. Nick Woodard and Shane Lancaster each added 21 points in the high-scoring affair.

Alabama A&M has found success at home this season, posting a 5-2 record in Huntsville. Their defense will be tested by an Alcorn State team that, despite its record, has proven capable of offensive bursts.

The Bulldogs have shown balance, with players like Kintavious Dozier and Koron Davis providing consistent scoring alongside Abdur-Rahman. Alcorn State’s challenging non-conference schedule, featuring road games at power conference programs like Baylor, Mississippi, Oklahoma and LSU, has left it battle-tested but weary.

Saturday’s contest marks the SWAC opener for both teams. For Alabama A&M, it’s a chance to solidify its promising start. For Alcorn State, it represents an opportunity to reset and compete in league play.

Tip-off is set for Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026.