TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Alcorn State women's basketball continued to establish itself as a force in SWAC play on Saturday afternoon, pulling away in the fourth quarter for a convincing 61-48 road victory over Florida A&M at the Al Lawson Center. The win improves the Lady Braves to 6-1 in conference action and adds another quality road result as league play intensifies.
The contest featured steady play from Alcorn State throughout, but it was the Lady Braves' poise and defensive intensity down the stretch that proved decisive. After the game was tied 43-43 at the end of the third quarter, Alcorn State clamped down defensively and outscored the Rattlers 18-5 in the final period to put the game away.
Nakia Cheatham turned in a strong all-around performance, leading Alcorn State with 15 points on 7-of-14 shooting while also pulling down seven rebounds and dishing out five assists. Cheatham consistently attacked the lane and created scoring opportunities, particularly during key stretches in the second half. Kiarra Henderson was equally impactful, recording a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds to go along with eight assists and five steals. Henderson's activity on both ends of the floor fueled Alcorn State's transition game and disrupted Florida A&M's offensive rhythm.
Chrishunti Walker provided valuable production off the bench, finishing with seven points and six rebounds, while Ja'Sharreah Hunt added eight points and five assists, helping keep the offense organized against defensive pressure. Maya Claytor knocked down two timely three-pointers and finished with seven points, spacing the floor and giving the Lady Braves an added perimeter threat.
Alcorn State controlled the game in several key statistical areas, outrebounding Florida A&M 44-28 and holding a 28-12 advantage in points in the paint. The Lady Braves forced 17 turnovers and converted those miscues into 17 fast-break points, turning defense into offense throughout the afternoon. Florida A&M was limited to just 32.1 percent shooting from the field and struggled to find consistency against Alcorn State's pressure, especially in the closing minutes.
At the free throw line, the Lady Braves were efficient when it mattered most, converting 11-of-15 attempts, including several late trips that helped seal the outcome. The defensive effort in the fourth quarter, highlighted by stops, steals, and contested shots, allowed Alcorn State to steadily build separation and leave Tallahassee with momentum firmly in hand.
With the road win secured, Alcorn State now turns its attention back home. The Lady Braves will return to the Davey L. Whitney Complex on Thursday, January 29, to host Grambling, as they look to continue their strong conference run and build on their position near the top of the SWAC standings.
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