SOUTHWESTERN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL PREVIEW

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (Interstat) — A pair of teams riding the momentum of conference-opening victories will meet Saturday when Alabama A&M hosts Alcorn State in a Southwestern Athletic Conference women’s basketball matchup.

The game is scheduled for 3 p.m. CST at T.M. Elmore Gymnasium.

The Bulldogs (6-9, 1-0 SWAC) and Lady Braves (4-8, 1-0) each secured wins in their league openers on Thursday. Alabama A&M defeated Jackson State 69-59 at home, while Alcorn State earned a 49-40 road win at Alabama State.

Alabama A&M has found a rhythm offensively, averaging 68.3 points over its last three contests. Guard Kaila Walker has been instrumental, averaging 13.7 points and 3.7 assists in that span. She posted 12 points and five assists in the win over Jackson State.

Alcorn State counters with a defense that has been stifling in SWAC play, holding Alabama State to just 40 points. The Lady Braves have struggled offensively against high-major competition but have shown efficiency in their wins. Guard Kiarra Henderson is their catalyst, coming off a 21-point performance in a win at Jackson State on Jan. 3. She followed that with 10 points, four assists and two blocks against Alabama State.

The Bulldogs will look to leverage their home court, where they are 4-2 this season. Alcorn State, which has played nine of its first 12 games on the road, seeks its first winning streak since early December.

Historically, Alabama A&M has controlled the series, winning the last six meetings. The Bulldogs won both matchups last season, including a 66-49 victory in Huntsville.

Following this game, Alabama A&M travels to face rival Alabama State on Jan. 17. Alcorn State returns home to host Prairie View A&M on Jan. 15.