TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (Interstat) — The Alabama women’s basketball team used a dominant defensive performance to remain undefeated, stifling the visiting Alabama A&M Bulldogs in a 66-43 victory at Coleman Coliseum on Monday night.

The Crimson Tide’s defense was the story of the game, forcing 19 turnovers and converting them into 23 points. Alabama also recorded 11 steals and eight blocks, consistently disrupting the Bulldogs’ offensive flow. Alabama A&M was held to a frigid 29.8% shooting from the field.

Alabama set the tone early, opening the game on a 10-0 run. Jessica Timmons of Charlotte, North Carolina, ignited the burst with a 3-pointer just 12 seconds into the contest and scored seven of the game’s first 10 points. The Crimson Tide never trailed, leading 20-12 after the first quarter and 36-24 at halftime.

While the offense was efficient, shooting 45.5% from the floor, it was the defensive pressure that allowed Alabama to build and maintain a comfortable lead. The Bulldogs managed to score just seven points in the third quarter as the Tide extended their advantage.

Essence Cody, a 6-foot-4 forward from Valdosta, Georgia, anchored the defense with a commanding presence, finishing with 13 points, three blocks and two steals in 29 minutes. Timmons matched Cody’s scoring output with 13 points of her own.

Diana Collins of Lilburn, Georgia, provided a balanced effort with 10 points and three assists, while Alancia Ramsey of Delray Beach, Florida, filled the stat sheet with seven points, three assists, two steals and two blocks.

For Alabama A&M, which fell to 1-3, Coriah Beck of Memphis, Tennessee, led the way with 11 points and three assists. Maori Davenport of Troy, Alabama, added 10 points in the losing effort.

The Crimson Tide, now 4-0 this season, continued a trend of stout defensive performances, having held their previous two opponents under 45 points. An announced crowd of 2,406 watched the in-state matchup.

Alabama will look to continue its winning streak when it hosts Samford on Wednesday. Alabama A&M continues a challenging road stretch with a trip to face Nevada on Friday.