BATON ROUGE, La. – Alcorn State faced one of the toughest challenges on its non-conference slate Thursday night, dropping a 112-49 decision to nationally ranked LSU inside the Maravich Assembly Center. The Braves battled throughout, generating stretches of efficient scoring, but the Tigers' size, pace, and depth proved decisive.
Nakia Cheathman led Alcorn State with 16 points, connecting on six field goals and adding three rebounds. Maya Claytor provided a spark from the perimeter, finishing with 11 points on 4-for-6 shooting, including three makes from long range. Lauren Nelson added nine points to round out Alcorn's top scorers.
Kiarra Henderson anchored the defensive effort with three assists, five rebounds, and multiple contested plays at the rim. Leyah Houston supplied timely energy off the bench, scoring four points and grabbing a rebound while going 2-for-3 from the free-throw line.
Despite the final margin, the Braves found rhythm in stretches—shooting 46 percent in the third quarter and knocking down five three-pointers across the night. Alcorn also manufactured points off turnovers and pushed the pace when opportunities emerged.
LSU, however, used a commanding start to set the tone, shooting 75 percent in the opening period and finishing with six players in double figures. The Tigers controlled the glass and capitalized on second-chance opportunities to remain unbeaten on the season.
Alcorn State now turns its attention to Thanksgiving week and a key neutral-site showcase.
The Braves will travel to Florida for the Emerald Coast Classic, held November 24–25. Alcorn opens the event against Mississippi State on November 24 at 1:30 p.m., the first of two games over the holiday weekend.
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