ALBANY, Ga. — Tuskegee women's basketball dropped its final road contest of the regular season on Tuesday night, falling 52-48 to Albany State inside HPER Gym Complex.

The Golden Tigers battled throughout in a tightly contested SIAC matchup that featured three ties and three lead changes, but a late fourth-quarter push by Albany State proved to be the difference.

Tuskegee opened the game aggressively, holding the Lady Rams to just 6-for-16 shooting in the first quarter and forcing contested looks on the perimeter. However, Albany State built an early cushion at the free throw line and carried a 15-6 advantage after the opening period.

The Golden Tigers responded in the second quarter behind improved offensive rhythm and strong interior play, outscoring Albany State 21-9 in the frame. Tuskegee shot 9-for-14 from the floor in the quarter, flipping the momentum and taking a 27-24 lead into halftime.

Albany State answered coming out of the break, using a balanced scoring attack to edge Tuskegee 9-6 in the third quarter and reclaim the lead entering the final period. The fourth quarter saw both teams trade baskets, but the Lady Rams capitalized at the foul line down the stretch, converting 10-for-15 free throws in the final frame to seal the victory.

For Tuskegee, Arianna Durrell led the way with 12 points, three rebounds, and three assists in 40 minutes of action. Aaliyah Duranham added 11 points and a team-high 14 rebounds to record a double-double, while Tenea Robinson contributed seven points and 11 boards.

The Golden Tigers shot 37.7 percent from the field and finished 8-for-16 from the free throw line. Tuskegee also won the rebounding battle 37-39 narrowly and forced 16 Albany State turnovers but committed 22 of their own, which resulted in key transition opportunities for the Lady Rams.

Albany State was paced by Na'Havya Paxton's 16 points and Morgan Jada's 12 points. The Lady Rams shot 25.4 percent from the field but made up the difference at the free throw line, finishing 20-for-33 (60.6 percent). Albany State also held a 17-8 advantage in points off turnovers and scored 13 second-chance points to help offset their shooting struggles.

Despite the setback, Tuskegee remains in position heading into the final week of the regular season.

Up Next
The Golden Tigers will return home to close out the regular season with a pair of contests at Daniel "Chappie" James Center, beginning Thursday at 5:30 p.m. against Savannah State.

How to Follow the Golden Tigers
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