Photo: JSU Sports Media
Emani Araya
Staff Writer
Jackson State University basketball teams showcased their prowess in the PLAY4KAY Breast Cancer Awareness game against the Florida A&M Rattlers on Feb. 17.
The Lee E. Williams Athletics and Assembly Center was adorned in pink as fans turned out in droves to support the fight against breast cancer. The women’s basketball team donned pink uniforms for the occasion.
The undefeated Lady Tigers secured their 12th triumph of the SWAC season with a commanding 71-44 victory over the Rattlers. Their strategic plays and cohesive formations on the court left no doubt as to who reigns supreme in the SWAC.
Halftime for the women’s game was marked by entertainment provided by a local high school marching band and the Jackson State cheerleaders, accompanied by younger cheer clinic participants, ensuring the crowd remained engaged throughout the break.
The Lady Tigers delivered a stellar defensive performance, limiting Florida A&M to a mere 9.1 percent shooting from 3-point range, with just one successful attempt out of 11.
Angel Jackson led the charge with an impressive double-double, tallying 18 points and 10 rebounds. Andriana Avent contributed 13 points off the bench, while Miya Crump chipped in with 11 points and five steals.
On the defensive end Jackson State dominated the boards, securing 40 rebounds compared to Florida A&M’s 24, with Angel Jackson leading with 10 rebounds. The Tigers also capitalized on their offensive rebounds, converting 11 of them into 14 second-chance points.
Despite committing 16 turnovers themselves, Jackson State managed to force 17 turnovers from Florida A&M, translating those takeaways into 18 points on the offensive end, with Crump leading the defensive effort with five steals.
The game’s momentum swung heavily in Jackson State’s favor early on, as they established a 12-3 lead by the end of the first quarter, largely through their dominance in the paint. They maintained their lead throughout the game, heading into halftime with a comfortable 35-16 advantage.
The second half saw Jackson State extend their lead further, heading into the final quarter with a commanding 54-34 lead. A strong finish ensured the Lady Tigers sealed a convincing 71-44 victory.
Fans cheered as the Lady Tigers showcased their dominance, praising their resilience and skill. Players echoed the sentiment, crediting teamwork and dedication for their victory.
Omarion Nimmens, a freshman journalism and media studies major from Dundee, Fla., expressed mixed feelings about the Tiger win.
“I felt upset because supporting FAMU is a cultural thing in Florida. It felt good to see the (JSU) girls maintain their undefeated record, but it hurt to see FAMU lose.” Nimmens said.
In the men’s game, Jordan O’Neal’s standout performance led Jackson State to a resounding 77-55 victory over FAMU.
O’Neal recorded his second double-double of the season with 22 points and 13 rebounds, spearheading the Tigers’ third consecutive win. The team displayed balanced scoring, with four players reaching double figures.
Defensively, Jackson State stifled Florida A&M’s offense, holding them to just 36.7 percent shooting from the field and 18.2 percent from beyond the arc. The Tigers capitalized on their dominance on the boards, outrebounding their opponents 42-20.
The game was characterized by Jackson State’s control, as they never trailed in the second half, securing a comfortable lead early on and maintaining it until the final buzzer.
Players echoed the sentiments of their fans, acknowledging the significance of their performance. Ken Evans Jr. shared his excitement after a dunk in the night’s game.
“It felt great, you know, I finally got a dunk at the crib, great energy in the crib,” said the junior guard.
As the Tigers revel in their victories, they eagerly anticipate their next games with a sense of determination and optimism. They are poised to carry their momentum forward as they continue to strive for success on the court against in-state rival, Alcorn State University on Feb. 24 in Lorman, Miss.
