Preview: Tennessee State at Tennessee Tech Women’s Basketball

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — A stark contrast in early-season fortunes will be on display Tuesday when the surging Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles host the struggling Tennessee State Tigers in an Ohio Valley Conference women’s basketball matchup at Eblen Center.

Tipoff is set for Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.

The Golden Eagles (9-1) enter the contest as one of the conference’s hottest teams, having won nine straight games since a season-opening loss at Southern California. Their most recent victory was a 74-62 decision over Tennessee-Martin on Dec. 20, showcasing a balanced attack.

Tennessee Tech is powered by guard Reghan Grimes, a consistent force who is averaging 17.3 points over her last four games. She posted 19 points and five assists in the win over UT-Martin. Support comes from Cam Mathews, who also scored 19 in that game, and Chloe Larry.

Conversely, the Tigers (2-9) have faced a difficult non-conference slate, though they snapped a three-game skid with a 76-72 home win over Southeast Missouri State on Dec. 20. That victory provided a glimpse of their potential when key players perform.

Guard XaiOnna Whitfield led that charge, erupting for 22 points and six assists in 38 minutes. Her production is critical for Tennessee State; in the three games prior, where she scored eight points or fewer, the Tigers lost by an average of 24 points.

The venue favors the home team. The Golden Eagles are 6-0 at Eblen Center this season, outscoring opponents by an average of 25 points in those contests. The Tigers are 1-4 in true road games.

This game opens OVC play for both squads, setting the tone for their January schedules. Tennessee Tech will look to solidify its status as a conference contender, while Tennessee State aims to build momentum from its last outing and spring an early upset on the road.

The teams will meet again in Nashville on Jan. 27.