On November 15, 2024, at the Nutter Center, the Tennessee State women’s basketball team (Tigers) faced a challenging matchup against Wright State, ultimately falling 77-65. This marked the team’s second loss of the season, evening their record to 2-2.
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Bright Spots in the Game
Despite the loss, the Tigers showcased their determination, with three players scoring in double figures. Sanaa’ St. Andre shone brightly with 15 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and an impressive 6 steals, demonstrating her defensive prowess. Lyric Cole and Saniah Parker also contributed significantly, each adding 13 points and 6 rebounds, with Parker providing a spark off the bench.
The Tigers displayed resilience in attacking the paint, securing 14 offensive rebounds, which translated into 12 valuable second-chance points. Additionally, their defensive effort was commendable, forcing Wright State into 22 turnovers and converting those into 20 points on the other end of the court.
Game Progression
Tennessee State started strong in the first quarter, keeping the game close and ending the quarter with a narrow 21-18 deficit. However, Wright State intensified their offensive efforts in the second quarter, pulling away to a 39-30 lead by halftime.
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After the break, Wright State maintained their dominance, extending the lead to 54-39 in the third quarter. However, the Tigers showed their fighting spirit with a 6-0 run, highlighted by a basket from Saniah Parker, reducing the deficit to 54-45 with just under a minute left in the quarter. Despite their efforts, Wright State held firm and entered the fourth quarter with a 56-47 advantage. The Tigers were particularly effective near the rim during this period, scoring 10 of their 17 points in the paint.
In the fourth quarter, Tennessee State couldn’t close the gap further. While they received contributions from the bench, with 5 points coming from non-starters, they ultimately fell short, ending the game with a 77-65 defeat.
Looking Ahead
The loss to Wright State offers valuable lessons for Tennessee State. While the result wasn’t in their favor, the team demonstrated several positives, particularly their defensive intensity and refusal to give up.
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The Tigers will look to bounce back in their next game against Dayton on November 17, 2024. This matchup presents an opportunity for the team to regain their winning momentum and improve their record. Fans can watch the game live on ESPN+.
Conclusion
Although they didn’t secure the victory, Tennessee State displayed resilience and potential for growth. With key players like Sanaa’ St. Andre, Lyric Cole, and Saniah Parker, the Tigers remain a promising force this season. Can they learn from this setback and come back stronger in their upcoming games? Stay tuned! 🏀
