The Lady Tigers came out roaring for Senior Night in HP&E Arena and secured an undefeated conference season on their home floor with a thrilling win over Mississippi Valley State, 81-72.
In a fiercely contested opening quarter, Texas Southern showed resilience and grit on both ends of the court. The Tigers started strong with key defensive plays, including rebounds by Anela Thomas and Nya Harmon, setting the tone early on.
Aylasia Fantroy was a standout, contributing a crucial layup, leading the charge with defensive rebounds, and making a significant steal. Her free-throw shooting was on point, adding vital points to the scoreboard. Deivejon Harris was also a force to be reckoned with, securing multiple rebounds and helping the Tigers end the quarter with a 19-14 lead.
The second quarter was a roller coaster for Texas Southern, with intense back-and-forth action as Mississippi Valley State made a strong push. Fantroy's defensive rebounds and blocks were pivotal in keeping Mississippi Valley State in check, while Harris continued to be a force on both ends of the court with crucial rebounds and points. Mississippi Valley State capitalized on several late Texas Southern turnovers as they found themselves down 31-30 at the half.
In a thrilling third quarter, Texas Southern continued to demonstrate their strength and determination, fighting hard to maintain their lead. The Tigers showcased their resilience with key defensive plays, particularly by Treasure Thompson, who secured multiple rebounds and contributed significantly to the team's efforts. Fantroy and Harris remained pivotal players, with Fantroy making crucial layups and free throws, while Harris added essential points and rebounds. Despite missing a few three-pointers, Fantroy's defensive rebounds and steals were vital in keeping the team competitive. Courtlyn Loudermill also made notable contributions, including a critical three-pointer and driving layups, which kept the scoreboard ticking for Texas Southern. As the quarter concluded, Texas Southern maintained a narrow lead, thanks to their strong defense and timely scoring.
The final quarter was a nail-biter for Texas Southern as they battled to maintain their lead and secure the win against Mississippi Valley State. The Tigers demonstrated remarkable resilience and tenacity, with standout performances from key players. Fantroy and Harris continued to be pivotal in both offense and defense. Fantroy's defensive rebounds and crucial free throws were instrumental in maintaining Texas Southern's edge. Harris contributed significantly with points and rebounds, including important free throws that kept the Tigers ahead. Treasure Thompson also played a vital role, with multiple rebounds and defensive plays, including blocks that thwarted Mississippi Valley State's attempts to close the gap. Loudermill and Thomas made significant contributions, with Loudermill's three-pointer and driving layups adding to the Tigers' score.
The team's ability to recover offensive rebounds and capitalize on free throws was crucial in maintaining their lead. The Tigers' determination and teamwork paid off as the clock wound down, securing a hard-fought victory and an undefeated SWAC record on the home floor. Courtlyn Loudermill led the Lady Tigers with 20 points, Aylasia Fantroy with 17 points and 8 rebounds, Deivejon Harris with 17 points and 9 rebounds, and Treasure Thompson with 10 rebounds and 4 blocks.
The Lady Tigers are on the road to Lorman, Miss. to face Alcorn State on Thursday, Feb 27 at 6 p.m.
