TUSKEGEE, Ala. — The Golden Tiger women's basketball team is set rival Miles in a pivotal Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) matchup on Saturday at 12:00 p.m. inside the Daniel "Chappie" James Center.
With both teams vying for supremacy in the SIAC West Division, this game promises to deliver intense competition and playoff implications.
GAMEDAY
Date: Saturday, Feb. 8
Time: 12:00 p.m. CT
Location: Tuskegee, Ala. (Daniel "Chappie" James Center)
Watch Live: HBCU GO
Listen Live: Golden Tiger Sports Network (GTSN)
Live Stats: Sidearm Stats
ABOUT TUSKEGEE (12-8, 9-4 SIAC)
The Golden Tigers, riding the momentum of a seven-game win streak, enter the game with an overall record of 12-8 and a 9-4 mark in conference play. Currently sitting one game behind Miles in the standings, Tuskegee has a prime opportunity to make a statement as they attempt to close the gap on the division leaders.
The rivalry between these two programs has been fierce all season, with Tuskegee claiming the upper hand in their last meeting, securing a crucial road victory over the Golden Bears in January. This rematch on home turf provides the Golden Tigers with a chance to solidify their position as a contender for the division title and secure momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
Under head coach
Chiante Wester, Tuskegee has developed this season into one of the most balanced teams in the conference.
The Golden Tigers excel on both ends of the court, showcasing a dynamic offense paired with tenacious defensive pressure. Over the course of their seven-game win streak, Tuskegee has averaged 72 points per game while holding opponents to just 58 points per contest, a testament to their defensive prowess.
Veteran guard
Brittney Bolin continues to lead the charge offensively for the Golden Tigers, averaging 11.4 points per game. Her ability to score both from beyond the arc and inside the paint has made her a focal point of Tuskegee's attack.
Complementing her efforts is fellow guard
Hilani Cantone, posting numbers of 10.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per contest, displaying her versatility to contribute in multiple facets of the game.
On the inside is reigning SIAC Women's Basketball Player of the Week
Jasmine Manuel. The center is averaging 7.9 points and 6.7 rebounds per game and is coming off a week where she averaged 14 points and six rebounds in the last two wins. Manuel's presence in the paint has been instrumental in securing second-chance opportunities and anchoring the team's interior defense.
Tuskegee's defense ranks among the best in the SIAC, particularly in forcing turnovers. They are averaging 8.7 steals per game, with the veteran guard presence leading the way in creating transition opportunities.
Additionally, the Golden Tigers' depth has been a key asset, with contributions from the bench proving critical in high-pressure moments.
ABOUT MILES (13-5, 10-3 SIAC)
The Golden Bears, meanwhile, boasts an impressive 13-5 overall record and a 10-3 tally in conference action, positioning this matchup as a clash of two of the SIAC's most formidable teams.
Miles enters Saturday's contest as the team to beat in the SIAC West, showcasing a well-rounded game plan that has propelled them to the top of the standings. Led by head coach Pete Asmond, the Golden Bears are averaging 62.2 points per game while allowing just 56.2 points on the defensive end, making them one of the most disciplined squads in the conference.
Senior guard Iemyiah Harris has been a standout performer for Miles, averaging 10.5 points and 2.1 assists per game. Her court vision and scoring ability have made her a difficult contest for opponents throughout the season.
In the frontcourt, senior Feliah Greer has strong on the glass, pulling down a team-high 5.8 rebounds per game and adding an additional scoring punch with her average of 10.1 points per contest.
Miles' defensive strategy revolves around controlling the tempo of the game and forcing opponents into difficult shots. The Golden Bears are among the conference leaders in opponent field goal percentage, holding teams to just 35% shooting from the floor. Their ability to protect the paint and limit second-chance points has been a cornerstone of their success.
This matchup not only represents a battle for the top seed in the SIAC West but also serves as a preview of the postseason intensity to come.
With Tuskegee aiming to tie Miles in the standings and secure a tiebreaker advantage, the implications of Saturday's game extend far beyond the final buzzer. A win for Tuskegee would not only bolster their confidence but also position them as a serious contender for the SIAC Championship.
Fans can expect a high-energy atmosphere at the Daniel "Chappie" James Center as the Golden Tigers aim to protect their home court and continue their winning streak. Tip-off is scheduled for 12:00 p.m., and the game will be broadcast live on HBCU GO and the Golden Tiger Sports Network.
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.