TUSKEGEE, Ala. – The Golden Tigers women's basketball team will return to play this week as they travel for a key SIAC matchup against the Fort Valley State Wildcats on Monday, December 16.
 
The game is scheduled to tip off at 5:30 p.m. ET inside the HPE Arena. Tuskegee enters the game with a 3-5 overall record and 0-1 in SIAC play, while Fort Valley State comes into the game with a 2-5 overall record and 0-4 in conference action.
 
ABOUT TUSKEGEE (3-5, 0-1 SIAC)
Tuskegee is coming off a slow start to the SIAC season, having lost the opening conference matchup.
 
Despite the setback, Tuskegee has shown promise, particularly from their standout performers. Brittney Bolin, who is averaging 14.4 points per game, has been the team's primary scoring option, while Hilani Cantone, with her 9.9 points per game, has proven to be a consistent offensive threat.
 
Bolin's shooting efficiency, particularly from the free-throw line, has been vital for the Golden Tigers' offense, where she boasts an 85.7 percent shooting rate from the charity stripe.

Defensively, Tuskegee has faced challenges, as evidenced by their recent losses, but their ability to generate steals and force turnovers remains a strength. TU will need to tighten their defensive efforts, as they are allowing 60.9 points per game and have been out-rebounded in their losses.
 
The key to the game for both teams will be controlling the tempo and execution in critical moments. For Tuskegee, improving their shooting efficiency, particularly from beyond the arc and free throw line, will be essential. The Golden Tigers will also need to focus on limiting Fort Valley's key scorers, while ensuring that their own offensive leaders continue to perform.

ABOUT FORT VALLEY STATE (2-5, 0-4 SIAC)
Fort Valley State, on the other hand, has had an up-and-down start to their season, with their most recent loss coming against Miles College on December 2.
 
The Wildcats are currently 0-4 in conference play, but their offense is spearheaded by Aaniyah Allen, who leads the team with an impressive 11.6 points per game, along with Camryn O'Neill, who contributes 7.1 points per game and is the team's primary playmaker with 2.0 assists per game.
 
Fort Valley State has struggled with consistency on offense, shooting 33.7 percent from the field and 24.4 percent from beyond the arc, ranking them among the lower teams in the SIAC in terms of shooting efficiency.

Despite their shooting struggles, Fort Valley has been solid defensively, limiting opponents to 63.5 points per game and averaging 8.6 steals per game.
 
The Wildcats, however, will look to take advantage of their home-court advantage and disrupt Tuskegee's offensive flow with aggressive defense and increased pressure on the ball.
 
With both teams seeking their first SIAC win of the season, this matchup will have major implications as they look to gain momentum in conference play. Tuskegee will aim to rebound from their early-season struggles, while Fort Valley State will look to turn their season around and secure a much-needed victory.

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 Twitter, Instagram and  Facebook.