TUSKEGEE, Ala. — Tuskegee women's basketball continued its early-season momentum with a 65-57 victory over Kentucky State on Tuesday evening inside the Daniel "Chappie" James Center.
 
The win improved the Golden Tigers to 3-0 in SIAC play and extended their home winning streak behind another strong second-half performance.
 
Tuskegee opened the game with confidence, pushing the tempo early and generating high percentage looks inside. After Kentucky State held a brief lead, Tuskegee answered with a surge powered by Arianna Durrell, who knocked down an early three-pointer to help TU move ahead 9-6. Shemaiah Mackin took control in the paint, scoring six points in the opening period as Tuskegee built a 19-12 lead after one quarter.
 
Kentucky State climbed back in the second quarter, taking advantage of Tuskegee turnovers and foul trouble to tie the game at 23-23. The Golden Tigers responded with improved ball movement and timely shot-making. Kae'la Mitchell connected on a jumper, and Durrell followed with consecutive baskets to send Tuskegee into halftime with a 29-27 advantage.
 
The Golden Tigers broke the game open in the third quarter. Mackin dominated the offensive glass, extending possessions and finishing through contact. Durrell added her second three-pointer of the night, and Tuskegee used a 10-2 run to push the lead to double digits. Kentucky State attempted to stay close behind leading scorer Shiyah Forte, but Tuskegee's defensive pressure held firm as the Golden Tigers entered the fourth quarter ahead 48-41.
 
In the final period, Tuskegee maintained control by continuing to attack the paint and secure key rebounds. Mackin added several crucial interior baskets, and Mitchell steadied the offense with strong decision-making. Kentucky State narrowed the deficit to five in the closing minutes, but Mitchell sealed the game at the free-throw line, hitting all four of her attempts in the final 40 seconds to secure the 65-57 victory.
 
Durrell led all scorers with 20 points to go along with seven assists and four rebounds. Mackin continued her strong week with 10 points and six rebounds, while Aaliyah Duranham added eight points and eight rebounds.
 
As a team, Tuskegee shot 47.1 percent, outrebounded Kentucky State 41-36, and dominated second-chance points 17-7 thanks to 14 offensive rebounds.
 
Up Next
With the win, Tuskegee improves to 3-2 overall and remains undefeated in league play. The Golden Tigers return to action on Thursday, December 4, as they travel to Huntsville to take on SWAC opponent Alabama A&M at 11 a.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 Twitter, Instagram and  Facebook.
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