Lady Tigers reign victorious over Southern as the men fall short

Photo by: Caylan Nixon

Emani Araya
Staff Writer

The Jackson State women’s team delivered a masterclass in resilience and determination during their intense matchup against the Southern University Jaguars.

The basketball program had an eventful night against their SWAC rivals on Feb. 5, but only one Tiger team would be victorious.

The men’s and women’s teams showcased effort and determination on the court in the Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center. However, the outcomes differed, with the Lady Tigers victorious over the Jaguars 63-58.

Facing a daunting 10-point deficit with just over five minutes remaining on the clock, the Lady Tigers refused to concede defeat. Instead, they rallied together, displaying unwavering resolve and a fierce competitive spirit that propelled them to a thrilling 63-58 victory. 

This remarkable comeback was a testament to the team’s character and tenacity, showcasing their ability to thrive under pressure.

Ti’Ian Boler spearheaded the Lady Tigers’ comeback with a standout performance, scoring 20 crucial points and delivering clutch baskets when it mattered most. Joining her in the spotlight were Keshuna Luckett and Miya Crump, whose impressive contributions bolstered the team’s efforts. Luckett’s 16 points and five assists showcased her versatility, while Crump’s all-around excellence shone through with 13 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and four steals. Additionally, Jackson State’s dominance on the boards, led by Crump’s relentless efforts, played a pivotal role in securing second-chance opportunities and dictating the flow of the game.

As the excitement of the night’s games settled, fans were left reflecting on the thrilling performances witnessed on the court. Curious about the impact of the women’s game, some were eager to share their thoughts on the entertainment value and the tension surrounding the possibility of a loss for the Lady Tigers. Keydrain Calligan had this to say about the outcome of the game, “I felt entertained while watching the game. It was an exciting game to watch, and of course, I knew the girls would come back and win; they’re the best in the nation.” And he wasn’t the only one who shared that view; Jency Riley Jr. also shared, “I was entertained. I knew our girls were going to win. It’s JSU, baby.”

Despite a valiant effort in the men’s game, the Tigers fell short with a final score of 72-63 against the Jaguars. 

Ken Evans, Jr. emerged as a standout performer, leading the Tigers with 16 points and demonstrating defensive prowess with two steals. However, Keiveon Hunt provided a significant spark off the bench, contributing 11 points and three steals to the team’s effort. 

When asked about his contributions to the game, Hunt shared his thoughts on the physicality and scoring efforts.

“They snubbed me out of 2 points, but it’s just an opportunity, you know, you get in, you gotta play hard,” said Hunt.

Jordan O’Neal also made his presence felt with seven points, two steals, and an impressive three blocks, highlighting the Tigers’ defensive intensity.

Jackson State’s defensive efforts were commendable, as they disrupted Southern’s shots and accumulated eight blocks as a team. 

Despite trailing 37-22 at halftime, the Tigers mounted a comeback, narrowing the deficit to 46-39 in the second half. However, Southern responded to maintain their lead and secure the victory. 

Reflecting on the halftime adjustments, Chase Adams said, “At halftime, I think we just went in, kind of rallied together, and told ourselves we were tired of losing. Even though we didn’t win, it felt good to fight with my brothers. At the end of the day, I think we’ll be fine, we’ll bounce back.”

Both teams now look ahead to their upcoming matchups, with both teams traveling to face Mississippi Valley State. Despite the differing outcomes, the Jackson State basketball program continues to showcase determination, resilience, and a commitment to excellence on the court.