TUSKEGEE, Ala. __ Tuskegee women's basketball put forth a strong effort in their 2024-25 home opener but fell short to West Florida, 71-65, in a closely contested non-conference matchup at the Daniel "Chappie" James Center.
The Golden Tigers battled throughout the game, but the Argonauts' efficiency from beyond the arc and late-game composure made the difference.
In the first half, Tuskegee started fast, taking an 18-13 lead in the opening quarter.
Brittney Bolin set the tone with six points and two rebounds, while the defense forced turnovers that led to eight fast-break points.
However, West Florida regrouped in the second quarter, tightening their defense and holding Tuskegee to just seven points.
The Argonauts, led by Kamille Clark and Haidyn Pitsch, outscored Tuskegee 17-7 in the period to take a 30-25 lead into halftime. Tuskegee struggled offensively, shooting just 15.4 percent from the field in the second quarter.
The third quarter saw West Florida extend their lead, fueled by Pitsch's sharpshooting and strong interior play from
Jasmine Manuel. The Argonauts pushed the pace and outscored the Golden Tigers 21-15 in the quarter.
Brittney Bolin kept the team within striking distance, adding five points. Entering the fourth quarter, the Golden Tigers faced a double-digit deficit but refused to go quietly.
Later in the quarter, Tuskegee mounted a 10-2 run, narrowing the margin to four points in the final minutes. However, West Florida made clutch free throws down the stretch, converting six in the final two minutes to secure the victory.
Tuskegee shot 38.8 percent from the field, compared to 33.3 percent by West Florida. The Argonauts' ability to hit seven three-pointers proved critical, as Tuskegee managed just three.
While the Golden Tigers dominated inside with a 40-24 advantage in points in the paint, West Florida capitalized on second-chance opportunities, scoring 17 points off 11 offensive rebounds.
The Argonauts' efficiency at the free-throw line also played a key role, as they converted 26 of 38 attempts compared to Tuskegee's 10 of 13.
Bolin led all scorers with 23 points on 9-of-17 shooting, including three three-pointers. She also added six rebounds, showing her impact on both ends of the court.
Hilani Cantone was the second double figure scorer with 13 points, four rebounnd and three assists.
Jasmine Manuel contributed seven points and seven rebounds, anchoring the interior for Tuskegee.
Alexandria Johnson made her presence felt defensively with three steals and two blocks.
For West Florida, Pitsch led the way with 20 points, including four three-pointers, while Clark added 12 points and six rebounds. Bella Green rounded out the effort with 11 points and a game-high 10 rebounds.
The game's flow featured several key moments. Tuskegee opened with a 6-0 run, forcing two early turnovers and converting them into transition points. West Florida answered in the third quarter with a decisive 10-0 run, extending their lead to 14.
In the fourth, Bolin's three-pointer at the 3:52 mark brought Tuskegee within five points, but West Florida's free-throw shooting ultimately sealed the game.
Up Next
Tuskegee, now 1-2 on the season, will look to regroup as they prepare for their next matchup against Columbus State on Saturday, November 23, also inside of the Daniel "Chappie" James Center. Tip-off is set on Saturday for 2 p.m.
How to Follow the Golden Tigers
For complete information on Tuskegee Golden Tigers Women's Basketball, visit
GoldenTigerSports.com and follow the team's social media channels on
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